Both an English composition and a communication course are generally required for a 2-year Diagnostic Medical Sonography program, while a 4-year program might require an additional English composition prerequisite course.
Generally, college algebra or another high-level math course is a required prerequisite. Along with math, two quarters or semesters of Human Anatomy and Physiology and a general physics course complete the necessary math and science prerequisites.
Some Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs require a prerequisite course in medical terminology while some programs do not. As with all prerequisite classes, talk to the Diagnostic Medical Sonography directly to ensure you meet the correct prerequisite course requirements.
Acceptance to most Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs is competitive, so programs use different criteria to select applicants. One of the elements used is to look at an applicant's previous heath-care experience, previous volunteer time in a health-care setting, and time spent "shadowing" a sonographer at her work.
Depending on the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program, a variety of prerequisite general education courses must be taken before acceptance in the program. The exact courses vary by school but some typical courses required come from the areas of fine arts, liberal arts, humanities and the social sciences. Check with the Diagnostic Medical Sonography to ensure you meet all general education requirements and electives.
Many Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0 in prerequisite courses while some require that all prerequisite courses be at least a "C" grade. Some programs require students to have immunizations completed before entry as well as an up-to-date cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) card. Fluency in both written and spoken English generally is a prerequisite, along with the ability to both deal with the physical and mental demands of the program and future employment.