Anatomy is the branch of science that deals with identifying and describing biological systems, organs, tissues, and the structure of cells. Physiology is the science that studies the function of those cells, tissues, organs, and interacting systems. Bones and cartilage provide shape for the human body. Muscles provide action and work together to allow movement of the body. Blood acts as the fuel source transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. You will explore, learn, and analyze gross human anatomy, histology, osteology and various aspects of physiology. These courses educate through lecture, laboratory instruction and research studies. With anatomy and physiology behind you, understanding the human body and how it works will provide an easier transition into an ultrasound program.
College algebra is primarily the study of positive and negative numbers, simplifying and solving equations, and factoring quantities. It uses symbols to aid in the expression of an equation. The tools of algebra can be used when trying to identify an unknown quantity.
Trigonometry is typically studied after the completion of algebra. It is the branch of math that studies triangles and the relationship between the sides and angles. Trigonometric functions describe those relationships as well as the motion of sound and light waves. Algebra and Trigonometry go hand in hand. These college-level mathematics will enable students to analyze data from the real world, allowing them to be more successful in an ultrasound program.
Physics is a natural science that studies matter, energy, force, motion and the interactions between them. It deals with matter on several size scales ranging from subatomic particles to stars and galaxies. Physics utilizes scientific methods to formulate, analyze and test hypotheses based on observations of the natural world. The goal of physics is to use the results to formulate scientific laws, which can then be used to predict other phenomena. Advances in the understanding of physics have evolved into new technologies. The field of physics trains students to take a logical, problem-solving approach to various situations, which will aid them in their ultrasound education.
Medical terminology is a vocabulary for accurately describing the human body and its associated components in a science-based manner. The words and terms used are based on the concept of word roots, prefixes, and suffixes. The word root is a term derived from a source language, usually Greek or Latin that describes a body part. A prefix attached in front of the word root denotes the location of an organ, number of parts, or time involved. A suffix attached to the end of a root word indicates a condition, disease process, or procedure. As a student, you will learn the specific terms and the ability to break down a medical term in order to understand its meaning.
Sectional anatomy is the proper interpretation of the various diagnostic procedures such as computerized tomography (CT scan) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These scans reveal the three dimensional relationships of various structures of the body. Understanding these clinical imaging techniques helps the ultrasound student to better explain the resulting images.