Associate of Occupational Science in Ultrasound Technician

Locations: Orange County

Overview

Classification of Instructional Programs Code (CIP): 51.0910
Standard Occupational Classification Code (SOC): 29-2032.00
Quarter Credits:118.5
Clock Hours: 2020
Method of Delivery: Blended
Number of Weeks: 80 *
*Weeks may be extended depending on holiday schedules

Degree/Diploma Awarded: Associate of Occupational Science
*Weeks may be extended depending on holiday schedules

Career Training Objective

Program Mission:
The mission of the Ultrasound Technologist Program at American Career College is to prepare competent, entry-level general sonographers who demonstrate clinical excellence, professional integrity, and compassionate patient care. The program provides a balanced curriculum of didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory training, and supervised clinical experience that fosters critical thinking, technical proficiency, and ethical practice in a dynamic healthcare environment.

Program Goals and Objectives
The program’s goals are designed to ensure graduates meet or exceed the expectations of the ultrasound technologist profession. By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Perform diagnostic sonographic examinations safely and effectively according to established protocols and professional standards.
2. Apply knowledge of sonographic physics and instrumentation to obtain, evaluate, and optimize diagnostic-quality images.
3. Integrate clinical data and patient history to assist interpreting physicians in the diagnostic process.
4. Exhibit professional, ethical, and compassionate behavior in all patient care and professional interactions.
5. Communicate effectively with patients, physicians, and members of the healthcare team.
6. Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in laboratory and clinical settings.
7. Apply safety principles and ergonomic practices to protect both the patient and practitioner.
8. Commit to lifelong learning, continuing education, and professional credentialing through ARDMS or CCI.
9. Function as an effective member of the healthcare team while contributing to quality patient outcomes.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Theoretical Domain
By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Explain sonographic anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology for abdominal, pelvic, obstetric, gynecologic, and small parts structures.
2. Demonstrate understanding of ultrasound physics, imaging principles, and equipment operation.
3. Identify and differentiate between normal and pathological sonographic findings.
4. Describe ethical and legal considerations, including patient confidentiality and professional conduct.
5. Apply quality assurance and safety principles related to sonographic imaging.

Psychomotor Domain (Skills)
By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Perform standard sonographic scanning protocols using proper technique and transducer selection.
2. Operate ultrasound equipment to produce high-quality diagnostic images.
3. Optimize imaging parameters for visualization of anatomical structures.
4. Document and communicate sonographic findings accurately and efficiently.
5. Adhere to infection control, equipment care, and patient safety standards.

Affective Domain (Professional Behaviors)
By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Provide compassionate, culturally competent, and patient-centered care.
2. Accept constructive feedback and apply it to improve performance.
3. Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and ethical decision-making.
4. Communicate respectfully and effectively in clinical and academic environments.
5. Show a commitment to lifelong learning and advancement of the sonography profession

Instructional Equipment

• GE Logiq E9 Ultrasound Machines
• Toshiba Aplio / IU33 Ultrasound Machines
• Probes:
  • Sector (Phased-Array) Probe – cardiac & general imaging
  • Linear Probe – vascular, small parts, MSK
  • Curvilinear (Convex) Probe – abdominal, OB/GYN
  • Endocavity (Transvaginal) Probe – pelvic studies
• Fetus Ultrasound Phantom (SPACEFAN-ST)
• Transvaginal Ultrasound Phantoms
• Breast Phantoms
• Breast Pathology Phantom
• Male Testicular Phantom

Program Outline

Program Location: Orange County

† Courses delivered fully online.
^‡ Courses offered in a blended format, a combination of online and on ground.