Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College is setting the standard in medical imaging education with Alabama’s only comprehensive Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Program that integrates instruction in abdomen, small parts, obstetrics-gynecology, and vascular sonography—all within one associate degree.
The 76-credit hour program delivers a robust curriculum supported by credentialed instructors in both classroom and clinical lab settings. Students benefit from immersive hands-on training, preparing them for real-world clinical rotations and direct patient care.
“Experience in the field is a crucial part of the learning process and allows students to learn in a true healthcare environment as they prepare for transition into the workforce,” said Kelsey Taylor, program director. “Our students graduate with the confidence, knowledge and skill set they need to succeed in the field.”
Boasting a 95 percent graduation rate, the DMS program sees nearly all of its graduates quickly employed. Students are eligible to sit for certification exams through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Cardiovascular Credentialing International during the program. After graduation, they may also pursue credentialing through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon recommendation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS), the program meets the highest standards in allied health education.
A new cohort is accepted each fall. Applications are open through May 10, and selection is based on completion of prerequisite courses and requirements such as ACT scores, transcripts, and admission criteria.
Admission Requirements Include:
-
Unconditional admission to Gadsden State
-
Minimum ACT score of 18
-
At least a 2.5 GPA in general education courses
-
Completion or current enrollment in required general courses
-
Attendance at a DMS information session
-
Proof of health insurance upon acceptance
-
Background check, drug screen, and ability to meet Essential Functions
Applicants are ranked using a blind scoring system based on GPA and ACT score, with the Top 40 advancing to Phase 2 of admissions. This phase includes a panel interview, written essay, two professional recommendations, and proof of CPR/BLS certification.
“We are highly selective because we are committed to maintaining the highest standards in both academic and clinical excellence,” Taylor said. “Sonographers play a critical role in patient care and diagnostics, so we ensure that every student admitted to our program has the academic readiness as well as the professionalism, work ethic and passion needed to succeed in a demanding healthcare environment. It’s about quality over quantity. We want to graduate the best of the best at Gadsden State.”
In addition to the associate degree, the college offers a certificate in echocardiography for credentialed sonographers seeking to expand their expertise. Designed with working professionals in mind, this program features online instruction and evening lab sessions.
“Our echocardiography certificate program is unique because it’s built for working sonographers,” Taylor said. “We provide a schedule that works with their busy lives without sacrificing the quality of hands-on training and clinical experience.”
*This is the final article in a four-part series highlighting educational training programs that are unique to Gadsden State Community College in recognition of April being Community College Month
.
