Missouri Valley University | Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

School of Nursing & Health Sciences

Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Learn to use advanced ultrasound technology to help physicians diagnose medical conditions, monitor pregnancies, and improve patient outcomes.

HOW TO APPLY

Turn Your Compassion for Others into a High-Demand Healthcare Career

You want a career where your work matters. You want to combine healthcare, technology, and critical thinking to make a real difference in patients’ lives.

Diagnostic medical sonographers are essential members of the healthcare team. They use ultrasound imaging to help physicians detect abnormalities, assess blood flow, and monitor fetal development—all while providing compassionate care to patients during some of life’s most important moments.

Missouri Valley University is Your Guide

Led by faculty member Kathrine Flores, the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program provides the academic foundation, hands-on lab experiences, and supervised clinical training needed to prepare for a successful career in medical imaging.

Our program is designed to prepare competent, entry-level sonographers in abdominal, obstetrics/gynecology, and vascular sonography.

Program at a Glance

80
Total Credit Hours
4
Semesters of Core Training
3
Clinical Practice Courses
ARDMS
Board Exam Preparation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Missouri Valley University has built its curriculum and clinical structures to meet or exceed national standards. The program is actively moving through the formal application process with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Yes, graduates can still earn credentials. While a program is pending CAAHEP status, students can qualify for the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) exams via alternative educational pathways, such as holding a prior degree or utilizing specific clinical hours verification tracks. The Program Director will guide your cohort on the exact application pathway used upon graduation.

  • Lectures — delivered asynchronously online so you can complete your coursework around your personal schedule.
  • Labs — held in person at the state-of-the-art simulation labs on the Marshall, MO campus, typically organized as intensive, hands-on scanning sessions.
  • Clinicals — completed in-person at approved regional hospitals and medical imaging facilities.

Due to the rigorous clinical hour requirements starting in your second semester, full-time employment is highly discouraged. Clinical rotations require 24 to 32 hours per week on-site during regular business hours, in addition to your online lectures and study time.

Please contact the Program Director, Kathrine Flores, at floresk@moval.edu or call 660-831-4096 to schedule an official transcript evaluation.

Your Path to Becoming a Sonographer

1. Build Your Foundation

Complete coursework in anatomy and physiology, biology, mathematics, communication, and medical terminology.

2. Master Sonography Skills

Study ultrasound physics, abdominal imaging, OB/GYN sonography, vascular studies, and cross-sectional anatomy.

3. Gain Clinical Experience

Complete supervised clinical practice and prepare for the ARDMS board examination.

What You Will Be Prepared to Do

  • Perform abdominal, OB/GYN, and vascular ultrasound procedures.
  • Apply clinical reasoning to solve diagnostic challenges.
  • Provide safe, compassionate care to diverse patient populations.
  • Connect clinical signs and symptoms with pathological disorders.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, empathy, and ethical practice.
  • Commit to lifelong learning and continuous improvement.

A Career That Changes Lives

Every ultrasound image tells a story. As a sonographer, you help physicians make informed decisions and give patients clarity during some of the most meaningful moments of their healthcare journey.

See Your Future Clearly

If you are ready to combine advanced technology, critical thinking, and compassionate patient care, Missouri Valley University can help you launch a rewarding career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

How to Apply

  • Application Submission Window for Fall 2027 admission: Sunday, January 24, 2027 – Sunday, February 14, 2027
  • Transcripts Deadline: Official transcripts from other colleges/universities must be sent directly to the Missouri Valley Admissions & Records office by Friday, December 11, 2026
  • A new class begins every Fall semester
  • Continue to monitor this site for updates
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography Application Checklist