Diagnostic Medical Sonography Degree Programs
CAAHEP Accredited* Programs
Available at the State College Main Campus
Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS)
3-Year Associate in Specialized Technology Degree Program
(Applicants with little to no post-secondary education)
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional Plus (DPP)
2-year Diploma Program
(Applicants with prior degree)
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional (DMP)
15-month Diploma Program
(Applicants with imaging background, RT certification)
What You Need to Know About Our Medical Sonography Degree Programs
A career in healthcare could take less time and less schooling than you think. The practice of sonography uses high-tech ultrasound equipment to assess and record images of the body with the aim of diagnosing illnesses, injuries, or medical conditions. With the Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs at South Hills School of Business & Technology, you can gain the skills to acquire quality images needed for proper diagnosis. In the clinical setting, you can work closely with physicians and other medical professionals to provide compassionate care. We offer three pathways to enroll in DMS:
- Our Associate in Specialized Technology degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, which can be completed in just 3 years and is geared toward those who have either no college credits or only a few college credits
- Our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional Plus diploma program, which can be completed in 2 years and is designed for those who already have a degree in an area other than medical imaging
- Our Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional diploma program, which can be completed in just 15 months and is an option for those who already have post-secondary training in a different medical imaging specialty, like radiologic technology
All three of our programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). We also offer you the chance to specialize in:
- Abdominal Sonography: Readies students to work in a radiology department performing scans on various abdominal organs, as well as small parts — including, but not limited to, liver, kidneys, spleen, gallbladder and thyroid. Students prepare to sit for the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS- ab) credential.
- Obstetrics/Gynecology Sonography: Readies students to work in a maternal/fetal medicine department that focuses on scanning the embryo/fetus throughout a pregnancy. Students prepare to sit for the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS- ob) credential.
- Cardiac Sonography: Teaches students how to perform adult echocardiography and ultrasound techniques for the heart. Students prepare for the Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) or Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) credentials.
- Vascular Sonography: Teaches students about the vascular system (i.e., the arteries and veins in the heart, neck, abdomen, and extremities). Students prepare for the Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) or Registered Vascular Sonographer (RVS) credentials.
Your hands-on education will include both classroom and lab work, as well as a clinical internship where you will get the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned from our experienced faculty in real-world settings. Previous internship locations have included:
- The Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Carilion Clinic
- Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
- Conemaugh Health System
- Geisinger-Lewiston Hospital
- Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital
- Lehigh Valley Health Network
- Mount Nittany Medical Center
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Why You Should Choose South Hills
South Hills School of Business & Technology has been in the business of helping our students gain the specialized career skills they need for over 50 years. We know that we can help you, too. Here are just a few reasons why:
- Internship opportunities— The DMS/DPP/DMP programs at South Hills include a six-month internship component where the students are immersed in the daily routine of a sonographer. The interns apply the knowledge and skill acquired at school directly to patients in need.
- Small class sizes — It’s important to us that each of our students feels seen, both in what they need out of their education and what their goals are. It’s why we keep our class sizes small, so you can build a personal relationship with your teachers.
- Experienced instructors and mentors — Our instructors are also experienced professionals who know what it takes to be successful in the job market. Sonography classes are taught by medical imaging specialists who have worked in the field and incorporate that experience into the curriculum.
- Career and alumni services — South Hills is an education community, there for you from the day you enroll to graduation and for years afterward. We have a dedicated Career Services team to help ready you for finding and securing a job, as well as alumni services that can help support you as you advance in your career.
- Financial aid and scholarships — Finances shouldn’t stand in the way of you being able to train for the career you want. South Hills offers a number of ways to help pay for your program for those who qualify. Grants, loans, and special funding for veterans are just some of the possibilities we can explore with you, and our Financial Aid team is available to help you navigate these options.
In addition to our three-year associate in specialized technology (AST) program, the South Hills DMS program also offers the following diploma programs for individuals with previous education or credentials:
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional Plus (DPP)
This CAAHEP accredited* two-year (6 terms) diploma program is designed for applicants who already have a previous Bachelor’s degree in a field other than medical imaging. It includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, patient care, and medical imaging sciences.
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional (DMP)
This CAAHEP accredited* 1.5-year (5 terms) diploma program is designed for applicants who already have a previous 2-year or 4-year degree in a medical imaging specialty such as radiologic technology or nuclear medicine technology. It requires a strong background in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, patient care, and medical imaging sciences.
* The DMS, DPP, & DMP programs for General, Cardiac, and Vascular Sonography are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP, 9355 - 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, 727-210-2350, mail@caahep.org) upon recommendation of the Joint Review Commission for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS).
Complete Course Lists
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Course List for 2020-21
| Term | Course # | Course Name | Credits | Clock Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | MD102 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.5 | 60 |
| MD103 | Anatomy & Physiology I Lab | 0.5 | 10 | |
| GE117 | Applied Algebra | 4 | 60 | |
| PD120 | Professional Development for DMS | 1 | 12 | |
| MD108 | Medical Terminology I | 3 | 36 | |
| Totals: | 14 | 178 | ||
| Term 2 | MD106 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.5 | 60 |
| MD107 | Anatomy & Physiology II Lab | 0.5 | 10 | |
| GE230 | Applied Algebra II | 4 | 60 | |
| MD109 | Medical Terminology II | 3 | 36 | |
| Totals: | 13 | 166 | ||
| Term 3 | DS251 | Applied Physics for DMS | 4.5 | 60 |
| DS255 | Applied Physics for DMS Lab | 0.5 | 10 | |
| HI102 | Pathophysiology | 5.5 | 60 | |
| GE260 | Statistical Applications | 3 | 36 | |
| Totals: | 13.5 | 166 | ||
| Term 4 | GE207 | Applied Psychology in Health Care | 3 | 36 |
| GE186 | Business English Essentials | 4 | 60 | |
| DM208 | Introduction to Medical Imaging | 2.5 | 36 | |
| MG119 | Management Essentials | 2 | 30 | |
| GE213 | Oral Business Communications | 2 | 24 | |
| Totals: | 13.5 | 186 | ||
| Term 5 | DM211 | Cross Sectional Anatomy for Sonography | 1.5 | 24 |
| DM212 | Embryology for the Sonographer | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM213 | Law and Ethics in Sonography | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM209 | Patient Care | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM214 | Principles of Sonography | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM240 | Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation I | 2.5 | 36 | |
| Totals: | 14 | 204 | ||
| Term 6 | DM236 | Abdominal Pathophysiology I | 3 | 36 |
| DM237 | Abdominal Pathophysiology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM215 | Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation II | 3.5 | 48 | |
| Cardiac Elective Grouping OR | 11 | 148 | ||
| General Elective Grouping OR | (11) | -148 | ||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | (11) | -148 | ||
| Totals: | 18.5 | 252 | ||
| Cardiac Elective Grouping | ||||
| DS257 | Cardiac Pathophysiology I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM228 | Cardiac Pathophysiology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS275 | Echocardiography I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM226 | Echocardiography I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM230 | Principles of Cardiovascular Technology | 3 | 36 | |
| Totals: | 11 | 148 | ||
| General Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM218 | Clinical Obstetrics | 3 | 36 | |
| DS283 | Gynecologic Ultrasound | 3 | 36 | |
| DM216 | Gynecologic Ultrasound Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS290 | Obstetric Ultrasound | 3 | 36 | |
| DM217 | Obstetric Ultrasound Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| Totals: | 11 | 148 | ||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM230 | Principles of Cardiovascular Technology | 3 | 36 | |
| DS268 | Vascular Pathophysiology | 3 | 36 | |
| DM229 | Vascular Pathophysiology Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS282 | Vascular Technology I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM227 | Vascular Technology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| 11 | 148 | |||
| Term 7 | Cardiac Elective Grouping OR | 17.5 | 244 | |
| General Elective Grouping OR | (17.5) | -244 | ||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | (17.5) | -244 | ||
| Totals: | 17.5 | 244 | ||
| Cardiac Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM246 | Cardiac Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM231 | Cardiac Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM247 | Echocardiography II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM233 | Echocardiography II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM235 | Echocardiography Special Topics | 4.5 | 60 | |
| DM249 | Principles of Vascular Sonography | 3 | 36 | |
| DM220 | Principles of Vascular Sonography Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| Totals: | 17.5 | 244 | ||
| General Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM238 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM239 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM248 | Obstetric and Gynecologic Ultrasound II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM221 | Obstetric and Gynecologic Ultrasound II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM249 | Principles of Vascular Sonography | 3 | 36 | |
| DM220 | Principles of Vascular Sonography Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| DM222 | Ultrasound of the Thyroid, Breast, & Super. Structures | 4.5 | 60 | |
| Totals: | 17.5 | 244 | ||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM238 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM239 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM222 | Ultrasound of the Thyroid, Breast, & Super. Structures | 4.5 | 60 | |
| DM250 | Vascular Technology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM234 | Vascular Technology II Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| DM251 | Vascular Ultrasound Special Topics | 3 | 36 | |
| DM232 | Vascular Ultrasound Special Topics Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| Totals: | 17.5 | 244 | ||
| Term 8 | DM252 | Clinical Internship I | 14.5 | 435 |
| DM224 | Professional Development for the Sonographer I | 1 | 18 | |
| Totals: | 15.5 | 453 | ||
| Term 9 | DM253 | Clinical Internship II | 14.5 | 435 |
| DM225 | Professional Development for the Sonographer II | 1 | 18 | |
| Totals: | 15.5 | 453 | ||
| DMS PROGRAM TOTAL CREDITS | DMS PROGRAM TOTAL HOURS | |||
| 135.0 Credits | 2,302 Clock Hours |
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional Plus Course List for 2020-21
| Term | Course # | Course Name | Credits | Clock Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | MD102 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.5 | 60 |
| MD103 | Anatomy & Physiology I Lab | 0.5 | 10 | |
| DS251 | Applied Physics for DMS | 4.5 | 60 | |
| DS255 | Applied Physics for DMS Lab | 0.5 | 10 | |
| DM208 | Introduction to Medical Imaging | 2.5 | 36 | |
| MD108 | Medical Terminology I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM209 | Patient Care | 2.5 | 36 | |
| Totals: | 19 | 248 | ||
| Term 2 | MD106 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.5 | 60 |
| MD107 | Anatomy & Physiology II Lab | 0.5 | 10 | |
| DM211 | Cross Sectional Anatomy for Sonography | 1.5 | 24 | |
| DM212 | Embryology for the Sonographer | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM213 | Law and Ethics in Sonography | 2.5 | 36 | |
| MD109 | Medical Terminology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM214 | Principles of Sonography | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM210 | Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation I | 3.5 | 48 | |
| Totals: | 21.5 | 286 | ||
| Term 3 | DM236 | Abdominal Pathophysiology I | 3 | 36 |
| DM237 | Abdominal Pathophysiology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM215 | Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation II | 3.5 | 48 | |
| Cardiac Elective Grouping OR | 11 | 148 | ||
| General Elective Grouping OR | (11) | (148) | ||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | (11) | (148) | ||
| Totals: | 18.5 | 252 | ||
| Cardiac Elective Grouping | ||||
| DS257 | Cardiac Pathophysiology I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM228 | Cardiac Pathophysiology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS275 | Echocardiography I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM226 | Echocardiography I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM230 | Principles of Cardiovascular Technology | 3 | 36 | |
| 11 | 148 | |||
| General Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM218 | Clinical Obstetrics | 3 | 36 | |
| DS283 | Gynecologic Ultrasound | 3 | 36 | |
| DM216 | Gynecologic Ultrasound Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS290 | Obstetric Ultrasound | 3 | 36 | |
| DM217 | Obstetric Ultrasound Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| 11 | 148 | |||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM230 | Principles of Cardiovascular Technology | 3 | 36 | |
| DS268 | Vascular Pathophysiology | 3 | 36 | |
| DM229 | Vascular Pathophysiology Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS282 | Vascular Technology I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM227 | Vascular Technology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| 11 | 148 | |||
| Term 4 | Cardiac Elective Grouping OR | 17.5 | 244 | |
| General Elective Grouping OR | (17.5) | (244) | ||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | (17.5) | (244) | ||
| Totals: | 17.5 | 244 | ||
| Cardiac Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM246 | Cardiac Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM231 | Cardiac Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM247 | Echocardiography II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM233 | Echocardiography II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM235 | Echocardiography Special Topics | 4.5 | 60 | |
| DM249 | Principles of Vascular Sonography | 3 | 36 | |
| DM220 | Principles of Vascular Sonography Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| 17.5 | 244 | |||
| General Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM238 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM239 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM248 | Obstetric and Gynecologic Ultrasound II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM221 | Obstetric and Gynecologic Ultrasound II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM249 | Principles of Vascular Sonography | 3 | 36 | |
| DM220 | Principles of Vascular Sonography Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| DM222 | Ultrasound of the Thyroid, Breast, & Super. Structures | 4.5 | 60 | |
| 17.5 | 244 | |||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM238 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM239 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM222 | Ultrasound of the Thyroid, Breast, & Super. Structures | 4.5 | 60 | |
| DM250 | Vascular Technology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM234 | Vascular Technology II Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| DM251 | Vascular Ultrasound Special Topics | 3 | 36 | |
| DM232 | Vascular Ultrasound Special Topics Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| 17.5 | 244 | |||
| Term 5 | DM252 | Clinical Internship I | 14.5 | 435 |
| DM224 | Professional Development for the Sonographer I | 1 | 18 | |
| Totals: | 15.5 | 453 | ||
| Term 6 | DM253 | Clinical Internship II | 14.5 | 435 |
| DM225 | Professional Development for the Sonographer II | 1 | 18 | |
| Totals: | 15.5 | 453 | ||
| DPP PROGRAM TOTAL CREDITS | DPP PROGRAM TOTAL HOURS | |||
| 107.5 Credits | 1,936 Clock Hours |
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Professional Course List for 2020-21
| Term | Course # | Course Name | Credits | Clock Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | DM211 | Cross Sectional Anatomy for Sonography | 1.5 | 24 |
| Winter 20-21 | DM212 | Embryology for the Sonographer | 2.5 | 36 |
| DM213 | Law and Ethics in Sonography | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM209 | Patient Care | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM214 | Principles of Sonography | 2.5 | 36 | |
| DM210 | Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation I | 3.5 | 48 | |
| Totals: | 15 | 216 | ||
| Term 2 | DM236 | Abdominal Pathophysiology I | 3 | 36 |
| Spring 2021 | DM237 | Abdominal Pathophysiology I Lab | 1 | 20 |
| DM215 | Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation II | 3.5 | 48 | |
| Cardiac Elective Grouping OR | 11 | 148 | ||
| General Elective Grouping OR | (11) | (148) | ||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | (11) | (148) | ||
| Totals: | 18.5 | 252 | ||
| Cardiac Elective Grouping | ||||
| DS257 | Cardiac Pathophysiology I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM228 | Cardiac Pathophysiology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS275 | Echocardiography I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM226 | Echocardiography I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM230 | Principles of Cardiovascular Technology | 3 | 36 | |
| 11 | 148 | |||
| General Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM218 | Clinical Obstetrics | 3 | 36 | |
| DS283 | Gynecologic Ultrasound | 3 | 36 | |
| DM216 | Gynecologic Ultrasound Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS290 | Obstetric Ultrasound | 3 | 36 | |
| DM217 | Obstetric Ultrasound Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| 11 | 148 | |||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM230 | Principles of Cardiovascular Technology | 3 | 36 | |
| DS268 | Vascular Pathophysiology | 3 | 36 | |
| DM229 | Vascular Pathophysiology Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DS282 | Vascular Technology I | 3 | 36 | |
| DM227 | Vascular Technology I Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| 11 | 148 | |||
| Term 3 | Cardiac Elective Grouping OR | 17.5 | 244 | |
| Fall 2021 | General Elective Grouping OR | (17.5) | (244) | |
| Vascular Elective Grouping | (17.5) | (244) | ||
| Totals: | 17.5 | 244 | ||
| Cardiac Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM246 | Cardiac Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM231 | Cardiac Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM247 | Echocardiography II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM233 | Echocardiography II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM235 | Echocardiography Special Topics | 4.5 | 60 | |
| DM249 | Principles of Vascular Sonography | 3 | 36 | |
| DM220 | Principles of Vascular Sonography Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| 17.5 | 244 | |||
| General Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM238 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM239 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM248 | Obstetric and Gynecologic Ultrasound II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM221 | Obstetric and Gynecologic Ultrasound II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM249 | Principles of Vascular Sonography | 3 | 36 | |
| DM220 | Principles of Vascular Sonography Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| DM222 | Ultrasound of the Thyroid, Breast, & Super. Structures | 4.5 | 60 | |
| 17.5 | 244 | |||
| Vascular Elective Grouping | ||||
| DM238 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM239 | Abdominal Pathophysiology II Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| DM222 | Ultrasound of the Thyroid, Breast, & Super. Structures | 4.5 | 60 | |
| DM250 | Vascular Technology II | 3 | 36 | |
| DM234 | Vascular Technology II Lab | 2 | 36 | |
| DM251 | Vascular Ultrasound Special Topics | 3 | 36 | |
| DM232 | Vascular Ultrasound Special Topics Lab | 1 | 20 | |
| 17.5 | 244 | |||
| Term 4 | DM252 | Clinical Internship I | 14.5 | 435 |
| Winter 21-22 | DM224 | Professional Development for the Sonographer I | 1 | 18 |
| Totals: | 15.5 | 453 | ||
| Term 5 | DM253 | Clinical Internship II | 14.5 | 435 |
| Spring 2022 | DM225 | Professional Development for the Sonographer II | 1 | 18 |
| Totals: | 15.5 | 453 | ||
| DMP PROGRAM TOTAL CREDITS | DMP PROGRAM TOTAL HOURS | |||
| 82.0 Credits | 1,618 Clock Hours |
The Outlook for Diagnostic Medical Sonography Jobs and Careers
Like many areas of the healthcare field, employment for medical sonographers is expected to see major growth over the next several years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for diagnostic medical sonographers will grow by 14%, much faster than the average for all occupations. There is also strong earnings potential, as well.
Careers in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
With three years of hands-on training and strong skillsets, our graduates are prepared for a variety of career options, including:
- Applications Specialist
- Cardiac Sonographer
- General/Abdominal Sonographer
- Imaging Services Manager
- OB/Gyn Sonographer
- Ultrasound Department Manager
- Vascular Sonographer
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography internship is completed during the final two terms of the program. The internship continues uninterrupted for 2 consecutive terms, thus allowing for a continuous 24-week internship experience. Clinical training begins in January of each year which occurs during the Winter and Spring terms at South Hills. We have placed interns at locations including:
- Clearfield Hospital
- Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center
- DuBois Regional Medical Center
- Geisinger Health System Hospitals
- Guthrie Clinic/Robert Packer Hospital
- Hershey Medical Center
- Holy Spirit Hospital
- Lehigh Valley Hospital
- Mount Nittany Medical Center
- Pinnacle Health System
- St. Luke’s Health Network
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hospitals
South Hills Diagnostic Medical Sonography graduates are highly respected in the field and sought-after for their training, professional attitudes, and knowledge. Some of the many locations employing our graduates include:
- Bloomsburg Hospital
- Carilion Clinic, Roanoke VA
- Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center
- Hershey Medical Center
- Geisinger –Lewistown Hospital
- Guthrie Clinic
- Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Lehigh Valley Hospital
- Lock Haven Hospital
- Mount Nittany Medical Center
- University Surgical Associates
- UPMC
Meet the Faculty
Tricia Turner, BS, RDMS, RVT
Program Director
State College Main Campus
Tricia Turner received her BS Degree in Exercise and Sports Science from Penn State in 1996 and is a 1999 graduate of the South Hills Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. After working in a clinical environment, Trish joined the South Hills faculty in 2002. She teaches obstetrics, gynecology, abdomen, and vascular sonography. Trish became the DMS Program Director in 2015.
Stephanie R. Wilson, BS, RDMS, RVT, FSVU
Assistant Program Director / Vascular Track Coordinator
State College Main Campus
Stephanie Wilson has been at South Hills School of Business & Technology since 2005. She received her Diagnostic Medical Sonography specialized associate degree from South Hills in the late 1990s and went on to earn her bachelor of science degree in Vascular Technology from the Oregon Institute of Technology. Stephanie served as a Senior Vascular Sonographer within the Penn State Heart and Vascular Institute prior to joining the South Hills team. She has been on the board of Directors for the Society for Vascular Ultrasound since 2012 and on the executive committee since 2016. Stephanie has also been on the Joint Review Committee on Education for Cardiovascular Technology (JRCCVT) Board of Directors since 2014.
Beth Lampe, BS, RDMS, RDCS (AE, PE)
Cardiac Track Coordinator
State College Main Campus
A 1983 graduate of Penn State University, Beth Lampe received her Sonography training at the Maryland Institute of Ultrasound Technology in Baltimore, Maryland. Beth has been active in all aspects of Sonography for more than 30 years, focusing on adult and pediatric echo for the last 15 years.
Elizabeth Ladrido, BS, RDMS, RVT
General Track Coordinator
State College Main Campus
Liz Ladrido joined the South Hills team in 2009, after being employed as a clinical sonographer at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Liz holds a Bachelor’s degree from Penn State University, and she received her sonography training at South Hills. Liz now teaches abdominal and vascular sonography and ultrasound physics.
Gregory Tressler, RT(R), RDMS
Instructor
State College Main Campus
Gregory Tressler has been in the medical imaging field since 1978. In addition to general sonography, Greg has experience in general radiography, Computed Tomography, and Magnetic Resonance imaging. Greg brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and experience to the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
Stacy Walgrove, BS, RDMS
OB/GYN Program Coordinator
State College Main Campus
Stacy Walgrove began her education at Penn State majoring in elementary education. She went on to obtain her Bachelors of Science from Mount Aloysius College in Professional Communications with a Sonography concentration. Stacy has worked in sonography since 2011 where she has performed abdominal, vascular, and obstetric ultrasounds. She has found OB/GYN sonography to be her passion. Stacy casually works in the clinical field at UPMC to make sure she is up with the ever-changing sonography/medical world. With having a passion for education and OB/GYN sonography Stacy decided that joining the Diagnostic Medical Sonography team at South Hills was a natural fit for her. She is looking forward to brining her skills and training to the classroom and preparing the next generation of OB/GYN sonographers for the growing medical profession.
DMS Graduates Can Earn a Bachelor’s Degree Online!
South Hills students graduating with the Associate in Specialized Technology Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography are eligible to articulate into the Bachelor of Science program in Applied Health Sciences at Pennsylvania College of Technology (PCT). PCT is an accredited college offering Bachelor's and Master's degree programs in a variety of disciplines. All courses required for the degree completion are available online. Go to our Articulation Agreements page or visit www.pct.edu for more information.
CAAHEP Annual Survey — Diagnostic Medical Sonography Outcome Statistics
- Graduates of 2021
- Graduates of 2020
- Graduates of 2019
- Graduates of 2018
- Graduates of 2017
- Graduates of 2016
- Graduates of 2015
- Graduates of 2014
| Specialty Track (DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (AB, OB) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| Retention | 92% | 75% | 100% |
| Job Placement | 83% | 100% | 83% |
| Credential (passing rates for board examination) | Abd 67% | OB 57% | 83% | 78% |
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated in 2021. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
| Specialty Track (includes DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (ABD, OB/GYN) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| Retention | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Job Placement | 67% | 70% | 90% |
| Credential status (passing rates for board examination) | Abdomen 78% | OB/GYN 86% | 89% | 89% |
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated in 2020. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
| Specialty Track (includes DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (ABD, OB/GYN) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| * Retention | * 91% | * 100% | * 83% |
| Job Placement | 80% | 89% | 90% |
| Credential status (passing rates for board examination) | Abdomen 88% | OB/GYN 100% | 89% | 90% |
* As of 2019, reporting has changed from attrition to retention.
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated June 2019. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
| Specialty Track (includes DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (ABD, OB/GYN) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| * Retention | * 93% | * 100% | * 100% |
| Job Placement | 79% | ** 33% | 91% |
| Credential status (passing rates for board examination) | Abdomen 77% | OB/GYN 100% | 100% | 80% |
* As of 2019, reporting has changed from attrition to retention.
** Sample size less than 10 causing results to be statistically unreliable.
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated June 2018. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
| Specialty Track (includes DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (ABD, OB/GYN) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| Attrition | 0% | * 33% | 7% |
| Job Placement | 85% | 100% | 77% |
| Credential status (passing rates for board examination) | Abdomen 90% | OB/GYN 100% | 100% | 82% |
* Sample size less than 10 causing results to be statistically unreliable.
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated June 2017. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
| Specialty Track (includes DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (ABD, OB/GYN) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| Attrition | 12% | 38% | 0% |
| Job Placement | 93% | 100% | 90% |
| Credential status (passing rates for board examination) | Abdomen 100% | OB/GYN 89% | 100% | 71% |
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated June 2016. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
| Specialty Track (includes DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (ABD, OB/GYN) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| Attrition | 0% | 14% | 8% |
| Job Placement | 87% | 100% | 100% |
| Credential status (passing rates for board examination) | 94.5% | 100% | 100% |
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated June 2015. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
| Specialty Track (includes DMS, DPP and DMP graduates): | General (ABD, OB/GYN) | Vascular | Cardiac |
| Attrition | 30% | 0% | 33% |
| Job Placement | 79% | 100% | 100% |
| Credential status (passing rates for board examination) | Abdomen 100% | OB/GYN 100% | 100% | 100% |
The CAAHEP Annual Survey outcome statistics are based on the students who graduated June 2014. The job placement rate includes graduates hired for jobs within their field and related fields, and were hired within 9 months of completion. The graduates are tracked via graduate and employer surveys.
Program Advisory Committee
| Member Name | Job Title | Company |
| Medical Advisors | ||
| Dr. Anthony Cardell | Cardiologist | Mt. Nittany Physician’s Group |
| Dr. Jason Fragin | Cardiologist | Penn State Hershey Medical Group |
| Dr. Jacob Alexander | Radiologist | Mt. Nittany Medical Center |
| Dr. Gregory Weimer | Radiologist/Instructor | Penn State Hershey |
| Dr. Robert Atnip | Vascular Surgeon | The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center |
| Community Members | ||
| Amanda Bornais, BS, RVT | Clinical Program Coordinator | The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center |
| Sal LaRusso, MEd. | Chief Sonographer/Senior Instructor Radiology | The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center |
| Robin Calderwood, RDMS, RDCS, RVT | Sonographer | Mt. Nittany Physician’s Group |
| Jon Downs, PhD | Director of Educational Alternatives | State College Area School District |
| Aubrey Rybyinski | Sonographer | Navix Diagnostix |
| Katherine McNitt | Nutritionist | Graduate Student, Pennsylvania State University |
| Rich Meyers | Senior Research Associate | Applied Research Laboratory Pennsylvania State University |
| South Hills Alumni | ||
| Adam Wood, RDMS | Lead Research Echo Technologist | Pinnacle Health |
| Renee Orlandi, RVT | Vascular Sonographer | Pinnacle Health |
| Pam Keebler, RDCS | Cardiac Sonographer | Carillion Clinic Roanoke Virginia |
| Susan Albright, RDMS | General Sonographer | Conemaugh Health System |
Get Started on Your Diagnostic Medical Sonography Career at South Hills
If you’ve been considering a move to the healthcare and medical imaging field, now is a good time to reach out to South Hills School of Business & Technology. Contact us today to learn more about our Associate of Specialized Technology degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography — or one of our convenient DMS diploma programs — and we can walk you through everything South Hills has to offer.
