Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
Sonography
Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS), sometimes referred to as ultrasound, is a diagnostic
medical procedure that uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce dynamic
visual images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body.
Sonography is increasingly being used in the detection and treatment of heart disease,
heart attack, and vascular disease that can lead to stroke. It is also used to guide
fine needle, tissue biopsy to assist in taking a sample of cells from an organ for
lab testing (i.e. test for cancer in breast tissue). Unlike x-rays, sonography is
a radiation-free imaging modality.
Job Opportunities
- Sonography is being used increasingly in acute care hospitals, imaging centers, and physicians' offices; it is used in all medical specialties.
- The California Employment Development Department projected a 27.6% increase in DMS employment from 2004-2014.
Accreditation
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program at Santa Barbara City College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Faculty & Offices
Debra McMahan, Chair (A-213, ext. 2504)
Debra Von Bernuth, Program Director
Carla Sorisio, Clinical Coordinator
Department Offices
Health Technologies Office (A-218, ext. 2366)
Application Secretary: Lorraine Michalak
