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PUBLISHED 2026-2027 Credit Catalog
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
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The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program provides comprehensive knowledge and practice in ultrasound technology, a critical component of modern healthcare diagnostics. It will equip you with the technical expertise and interpersonal skills necessary to assess and evaluate body organs and structures, which will assist physicians in the medical diagnosis and ongoing health management of patients. In this program, you will: - learn the science behind high-frequency sound waves and their application in sonography and the instrumentation that produces ultrasound images
- assess and image fetal and gynecologic structures, the intricacies of the heart and the body’s circulatory system (arteries and veins), the abdominal cavity, focusing on organs such as the liver, kidneys and pancreas, and superficial tissues, including the thyroid gland and breast tissue
- develop skills to provide quality patient care, from bedside manner to handling sensitive situations
- get an in-depth understanding of the human body’s structure and function to enhance imaging
- learn to participate in medical research and maintain high standards of quality control in imaging
- master the performance of various ultrasound scanning procedures with precision and care
You will get hands-on training and practical learning experiences in labs and workplace settings, covering sonography theory and techniques within clinical practice in patient care teams, and enhancing the collaborative skills vital in healthcare. If you seek a career combining advanced technology with direct patient care, are detail-oriented, and have strong communication skills, this program will prepare you to enter the workforce as a diagnostic medical sonographer, serving patients in hospitals and community clinics.
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Traits, skills and aptitudes
Those in diagnostic medical sonography tend to be objective, methodical and innovative. You need: - good health and upper body and shoulder strength
- physical dexterity to be able to use your hand, wrist, and arm for prolonged periods
- strong hand-eye coordination
- communication and observation skills
- the ability to visualize in three dimensions
- extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology
- to be comfortable with human blood and tissue
- attention to detail
- critical thinking skills
- perseverance
- the ability to handle unpleasant situations and work under pressure
- teamwork skills
- to adhere to a high standard of medical ethics at all times
You should enjoy working with all types of people, using technical equipment, and compiling information.
As a diagnostic medical sonographer, you may work in environments where a considerable amount of time is spent standing or sitting while performing tasks that may be repetitive. You should observe safety precautions and ergonomics to reduce the risk of exposure and injury. Individuals with previous chronic or repetitive strain injuries have experienced re-injury or aggravation of these conditions in this program or as a sonographer.
All medical personnel should be comfortable assessing injuries, performing patient care procedures which may be sensitive, and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods. This includes exposure to latex and other disinfectant materials.
You are strongly encouraged to refer to the ALIS website for career, learning, and employment information for diagnostic medical sonographers to ensure you can successfully meet the occupational requirements for the program and profession.
Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities
You will complete required clinical practicums and rotate through different clinical settings to achieve specific clinical objectives. As a part of completing all practicum rotations in this program, you will complete a practicum pathway, in which you will specialize in one of the following: - Generalist Sonography and Adult Echocardiography,
- Generalist Sonography and Vascular Sonography, or
- Generalist Sonography alone.
You will be assigned your pathway in accordance with the program’s methodology for determining such assignments, prior to any practicum rotations commencing. You will practice all competencies associated with your assigned practicum pathway, though the course outlines for these practicum rotations may reflect additional competencies that are not practiced, as they are not part of the pathway you have been assigned. In addition, those competencies that are practiced may not be done so consistently within each of your practicum rotations, as per the nature of different site placements and emergent patient needs. You will be assigned practicum placements with consideration given to your preference of location. However, due to limited availability in Calgary, it might be necessary for you to travel or relocate outside of the city or province. The healthcare field has a strong focus on health, wellness, and fitness to practice due to the demanding nature of the work and Occupational Health and Safety requirements. As such, special considerations will not be granted based on individual circumstances or preferences, except those stated as protected grounds when an accommodation has been approved. In compliance with the practica agreements with our clinical partners, you will be required to provide specific documentation before you can participate in your practicum. Find out what requirements you need for this program. Accreditations, designations or certifications
This program is accredited by Accreditation Canada, and works closely with our Diagnostic Imaging Advisory Committee to ensure our curriculum continues to meet or exceed provincial and national accreditation standards. Graduates of this program are eligible to write the Sonography Canada registry exams in: - Generalist Sonography (all graduates)
- Adult Echocardiography Sonography (practicum pathway dependent)
- Vascular Sonography (practicum pathway dependent)
Graduates are also eligible to write the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography exams. Credential
Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Diagnostic Medical Sonography diploma. Not open to international applicants
This program is not available to international applicants at this time. Related careers
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education. Potential careers (NOC): - Medical sonographers (32122)
Application process
Before applying to this program, you must complete the necessary entrance tests. Refer to Health and Public Safety entrance testing to find the required tests and deadlines and instructions on how to book your exams. Program outline
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography diploma requires 79.5 credits (26 courses) to complete.
The program spans 2.5 years, with seven semesters.
Required courses
You must complete all of the following courses. Elective courses
You must complete one of the following courses, based on your assigned practicum pathway.
If you’re assigned the Generalist Sonography and Adult Echocardiography practicum pathway, you must complete DMST 333. If you’re assigned the Generalist Sonography and Vascular Sonography practicum pathway, or, the Generalist Sonography practicum pathway, you must complete DMST 343.
Suggested schedule of study
Progression
You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines. Review our grading and progression procedure > Books and supplies
Books, supplies, and uniforms are approximately $2,700 for the first year, $600 for the second year, and $500 for the final semester.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page. A Windows-based laptop or Apple tablet is required. A mobile phone is not a suitable alternative.
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. Booklists are created by semester, and made available approximately two weeks prior to the commencement of each semester.
Required uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE)
The industry-approved PPE you’ll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
Additional fees- A fee is associated with obtaining a police information check, including a vulnerable sector check, payable to the police or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
- The School of Health and Public Safety strongly recommends that students meet Alberta Health Services’ Standard for Immunization of Post-Secondary Health Care Students. Fees for completing immunization requirements start at $85, however, may increase, depending on your vaccination history, and any new immunizations you choose to acquire.
- A fee of approximately $50 to $100 is associated with an electronic student permit checking submission required for clinical practicum placements, payable to Synergy Gateway through the Verified software platform.
- A fee is associated with the CompTracker application that is used in this program.
- You are responsible for additional expenses related to your practicum, including pre-practicum requirements and relocation costs to practicum sites outside of Calgary.
- Sonography Canada certification exam fees are approximately $1,525. Sonography Canada association dues are $175 per year, with the option to purchase professional liability insurance.
Health and Public Safety program advising
For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Health and Public Safety. Email: hps.info@sait.ca Program outcomes
- Patient care - provide patient care that ensures comfort, safety, and dignity.
- Teamwork and interdependency - collaborate effectively within the inter-professional environment to achieve a high standard of patient service. Engage in the healthcare system with a comprehensive understanding and accountability towards your impact.
- Sonographic imaging and intervention procedures - evaluate and document optimal diagnostic images. Produce and capture optimal real-time images for evaluation in an ultrasound imaging department using non-ionizing energy in a clinic or hospital. Provide assistance as required by physicians performing intervention procedures.
- Precepting skills - evaluate and guide students’ technical and professional development using educational institute guidelines.
- Communication - use verbal, non-verbal, and written skills to communicate appropriately with patients, members of the healthcare team, and the public.
- Professionalism - model professionalism by adhering to the professional code of ethics, legal and workplace standards and by embracing a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Work safety - ensure the physical and psychological safety of patients, co-workers, and the self.
- Technical skills - competently operate and maintain equipment to perform clinical procedures.
- Critical thinking - apply critical thinking and creativity to adapt to challenging situations in the workplace.
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