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What are the first steps to becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in California?
I'm a 17 year old senior in high school interested in being a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer and attending a college that offers this major. I'm still not entirely sure what the first steps are to become one and would like to know more.
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elle’s Answer
hello!
I suggest googling “diagnostic medical sonography + city of interest”.
In the San Jose area, Foothill College has a program:
https://foothill.edu/dms/
They have a pre-requisites page:
https://foothill.edu/dms/prerequisites.html
If you have questions on how to meet your pre-req requirements (such as direct patient care experience or DPCE), browse CareerVillage for answers on how to get that.
Good luck!
I suggest googling “diagnostic medical sonography + city of interest”.
In the San Jose area, Foothill College has a program:
https://foothill.edu/dms/
They have a pre-requisites page:
https://foothill.edu/dms/prerequisites.html
If you have questions on how to meet your pre-req requirements (such as direct patient care experience or DPCE), browse CareerVillage for answers on how to get that.
Good luck!
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Dulce
Updated
Madi’s Answer
Hi -
To become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in California, here are the first steps you can take:
Research educational requirements: Look into accredited programs that offer a Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) or Diagnostic Medical Sonographer program in California. Ensure that the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS).
Meet prerequisites: Check the specific prerequisites for the DMS program you're interested in. Typically, these may include completing certain science and math courses, having a high school diploma or GED, and meeting any additional program-specific requirements.
Apply to DMS programs: Once you've met the prerequisites, apply to the accredited DMS programs of your choice. Be sure to submit all required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Complete the program: Upon acceptance into a DMS program, complete the required coursework and clinical training. This typically takes around 2-4 years, depending on the program and whether you pursue an associate's or bachelor's degree.
Obtain certification: After completing your DMS program, you'll need to become certified. In California, certification is typically obtained through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) by passing their examination.
Apply for licensure: In California, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are required to obtain a license from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Remember to stay updated with any changes in requirements or regulations by regularly checking the websites of accrediting bodies, certification organizations, and the CDPH. Good luck on your journey to becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer!
To become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in California, here are the first steps you can take:
Research educational requirements: Look into accredited programs that offer a Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) or Diagnostic Medical Sonographer program in California. Ensure that the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS).
Meet prerequisites: Check the specific prerequisites for the DMS program you're interested in. Typically, these may include completing certain science and math courses, having a high school diploma or GED, and meeting any additional program-specific requirements.
Apply to DMS programs: Once you've met the prerequisites, apply to the accredited DMS programs of your choice. Be sure to submit all required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Complete the program: Upon acceptance into a DMS program, complete the required coursework and clinical training. This typically takes around 2-4 years, depending on the program and whether you pursue an associate's or bachelor's degree.
Obtain certification: After completing your DMS program, you'll need to become certified. In California, certification is typically obtained through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) by passing their examination.
Apply for licensure: In California, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are required to obtain a license from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Remember to stay updated with any changes in requirements or regulations by regularly checking the websites of accrediting bodies, certification organizations, and the CDPH. Good luck on your journey to becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer!
Thank you so much for this information!
Dulce
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