TCC’s accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography program recognized for quality, affordability

Tidewater Community College’s nationally accredited Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is the most affordable one in the Commonwealth of Virginia, according to HealthGrad.com, a leading online provider of comprehensive information about the medical community.

TCC’s 67-credit Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) can be completed in five semesters at the Virginia Beach Campus. Sonographers help clinicians diagnose illnesses using ultrasound to image organs, tissue and blood flow inside the body.

HealthGrad.com touts the TCC program as one of distinction, noting, “Because it’s priced more than $2,000 less than the state average for sonography associate degree programs, it’s also one of the most affordable. Offered in the Regional Health Professions Center, this program features a high-tech laboratory that comes complete with eight ultrasound machines. Want another reason to put this program at the top of your list? It boasts a 100% exam pass rate for the past three years.”

HealthGrad.com also lists the program as among the most affordable in the nation.

As part of the DMS program, students work on state-of-the-art equipment and complete clinical rotations at every major health system in Hampton Roads.

“This is a hands-on program that prepares students to be critical members of a health-care team,” said Indu Sharma, associate professor and DMS program head. “Our graduates are proficient in all facets of diagnostic medical ultrasound and have a high degree of adaptability in a field that is evolving and rapidly advancing.

The median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers was $72,510 as of May 2018, according to the Department of Labor. Overall employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The DMS program at TCC costs $12,418.45, not including textbooks and supplies. Financial aid is available. Most who earn associate degrees secure employment prior to graduation. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography credential earned is recognized nationally, and graduates have found jobs as far away as Alaska, Texas, California and Florida.

Admission to TCC does not guarantee acceptance into the DMS program. Students must also complete the Health Professions Application. The Regional Health Professions Center hosts information sessions at 4 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month (except December). RSVP is not required.

For information about the program, contact Sharma at isharma@tcc.edu or 757-822-7029.