Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS)
Hours: 17 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) at Fort Hays State University provides a thorough, immersive experience in cardiac sonography's fundamentals and advanced techniques. This certificate is ideal for professionals seeking to expand their healthcare sector capabilities or those transitioning into this high-demand field.
Students engage in theoretical and practical learning, culminating in a robust clinical preceptorship that ensures they are knowledgeable and adept in applying their skills in real-world settings. The certificate's curriculum includes studies on cardiac care, the operation of diagnostic equipment, and patient management, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
Why pursue a Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) at Fort Hays State University?
FHSU’s Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) offers a well-rounded blend of practical and theoretical education, designed to prepare students for the demands of the medical imaging field. With real-world application at its core, the certificate provides an integrated learning experience that equips students who complete the certificate to confidently navigate clinical settings and perform advanced cardiac imaging procedures.
The curriculum is continually updated to reflect the latest advancements in technology and diagnostic practices, ensuring relevance in a rapidly evolving field. In addition, FHSU’s strong connections with healthcare providers and equipment manufacturers give students access to current industry tools and techniques, enhancing both their learning experience and professional readiness.
Who is this program for?
The Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) is crafted for individuals aiming to specialize in adult cardiac sonography within the broader field of diagnostic medical sonography. Whether transitioning from another healthcare role or building on an existing sonography background, this certificate provides the focused education and hands-on clinical training necessary for success in cardiac sonography and related allied health fields. Applicants must meet the successful completion of a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program or the successful completion of one or more professional ultrasound registries or certifications listed below:
- RDMS
- RVT
- RT(S)
- RVS
- SPI
This certificate is ideal for:
- Certified sonographers looking to expand their knowledge of cardiac imaging
- New sonography graduates looking to expand beyond general ultrasound
Learning Outcomes
The Certificate Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills essential to becoming proficient diagnostic cardiac sonographers. Below are the key learning outcomes that prepare our students to excel in adult echocardiography.
Mastery of Sonographic Technology and Techniques
Students will gain a deep understanding of high-frequency sound waves and their application in medical imaging. The curriculum focuses on the technical aspects of generating accurate diagnostic data through advanced imaging techniques. Upon successful completion, students can perform echocardiograms that aid in cardiac diagnosis and treatment, making them valuable healthcare team members.
Clinical Proficiency in Diverse Health Care Settings
Through extensive clinical experiences at accredited clinical sites, students will develop the ability to apply their sonographic skills in real-world settings. These experiences are designed to hone their competencies in handling various sonographic equipment and scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared for national registry examinations.
Comprehensive Patient Care and Education
Our certificate emphasizes the importance of patient education and ethical treatment in healthcare. Students learn to communicate effectively with patients, explaining procedures and answering questions to ease concerns. This outcome is pivotal in training professionals who empathize with patients and work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care.
Professional Development and Preparedness for Certification
The curriculum prepares students for the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography Adult Echocardiography Exam. In addition to technical and clinical skills, the certificate also includes one-on-one instruction with campus and clinical instructors.
Real-World Applications
This certificate is intensely focused on practical application. Students learn about the latest techniques in cardiac sonography and apply these skills in clinical settings under the supervision of experienced professionals. This hands-on approach is augmented by a comprehensive preceptorship program, allowing students to experience the day-to-day responsibilities of a diagnostic cardiac sonographer.
The curriculum ensures that students can perform various diagnostic procedures, understand complex medical terminology and patient data, and effectively communicate findings to other healthcare professionals. This blend of skills prepares students who complete the certificate for immediate entry into professional roles, equipped to contribute effectively to patient care and diagnosis.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
FHSU integrates the latest advancements in diagnostic medical sonography and educational methods into the Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS). The curriculum includes training on the newest sonographic equipment and techniques, ensuring students are well-prepared for changes and innovations in the field. This commitment to innovation enhances learning and ensures that our students are sought-after professionals.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) emphasizes real-world experience through its extensive clinical preceptorship. Students spend significant time in healthcare settings, applying their knowledge and skills under the guidance of seasoned professionals. This direct exposure to the field is complemented by scanning labs on campus, which are designed to introduce students to basic cardiac sonographic techniques and scanning.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamentals of sonography technology
- Detailed cardiac anatomy and physiology
- Techniques for obtaining diagnostic cardiac images
- Ethical considerations in patient care
- Preparation for certification examinations
How You’ll Learn:
- Engage in real-world clinical settings
- Direct instruction from experienced professionals
- Interactive online and in-person classes
- Access to the latest sonography research and techniques
- Regular feedback and assessments to ensure competency
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Applying to the Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (DCS) program requires you to complete two applications, one for FHSU and one for the program.
Applicants must be accepted to Fort Hays State University before official admittance to the Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (DCS) program.
Please submit your Certificate in Medical Diagnostic Imaging Application Form
Related Programs
In addition to the Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS), Fort Hays State University offers other related programs in diagnostic imaging and health professions. Exploring these programs can further broaden a student's expertise and career opportunities in healthcare. Related programs include:
Information about the Department of Allied Health
The Department of Allied Health at FHSU merges health care and technology to provide contemporary on-campus and online programs that prepare students for successful careers in the medical field. Our programs equip you with the skills to operate advanced imaging technologies, enabling you to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating a wide range of health issues. Whether studying on-campus or online, you will benefit from hands-on experience and a curriculum designed to prepare you for in-demand careers in various medical imaging environments.
Our nearly 100% pass rate on national certification exams demonstrates the effectiveness of our curriculum, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared for the job market. Faculty members offer personalized academic and career mentoring, helping you secure ideal job opportunities.