Most Oklahoma diagnostic medical sonography programs offer general, comprehensive sonography education. But sonography students can specialize further in capturing and interpreting images for diagnosing ailments in specific organs and systems of the body. For example, cardiac sonographers take echocardiograms, a test that utilizes sound waves to create a picture of the heart. Vascular sonographers use ultrasound technology to check blood flow and spot blockages.
Sonographers can start working within their field by earning an associate's degree and American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers certification. Bacone College in Muskogee provides an associate of applied science degree in diagnostic medical sonography, with an emphasis on ultrasound technology and analysis. The Moore-Norman Technology Center's comprehensive diagnostic medical sonography program includes coursework on subjects such as abdominal, gynecological and vascular ultrasounds.
Although a four-year degree isn't necessary to work as a sonographer, a bachelor's degree can give candidates a boost over candidates with an associate's degree. Also, those who might be interested in furthering their education may consider earning a four-year degree. The University of Oklahoma offers one of best four-year programs for diagnostic medical sonography programs in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. With an integrated program of classroom and clinical learning, OU's diagnostic medical sonography program emphasizes both general and cardiac sonography. Campuses are located in Tulsa and at the Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City.
As the job involves considerable medical, analytical and technical training, the entrance requirements for diagnostic medical sonography programs in Oklahoma can be quite stringent. Moore-Norman Technology Center's admission requirements include a high school diploma or equivalency, CPR certification by the American Heart Association at the healthcare provider level and a two-page essay on why you'd like to become a diagnostic medical sonographer. To be admitted into the University of Oklahoma's four-year program, students must have at least a 2.5 gpa on all attempted coursework. Academic requirements are much higher for certain specialized programs within the major, including clinical internships.
In case the Oklahoma diagnostic medical sonography programs don't fit your educational needs, consider distance learning. Jackson Community College, Mountain State University and Washburn University offer online associate's degrees in vascular, cardiac or general diagnostic medical sonography.