Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS)
Hours: 17 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) at Fort Hays State University offers a comprehensive and immersive education in cardiac sonography's fundamentals and advanced techniques. This certificate is tailored for healthcare professionals seeking to expand their skill set or individuals transitioning into this high-demand field.
Participants follow a curriculum that blends theoretical learning with practical training, culminating in a comprehensive clinical preceptorship. This hands-on experience equips students with the confidence and competence to apply their skills effectively in real-world clinical environments. The certificate covers key areas such as cardiac care, diagnostic equipment operation, and patient management, offering a well-rounded and in-depth educational foundation.
Why pursue a Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) delivers a balanced combination of theoretical instruction and practical experience, designed to prepare individuals for the evolving demands of the medical imaging field. Emphasizing real-world application, the certificate provides an integrated learning experience that enables participants to navigate clinical environments and perform advanced cardiac imaging procedures confidently.
The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current advancements in diagnostic technology and clinical practices, ensuring learners stay aligned with industry standards. Additionally, FHSU’s strong partnerships with healthcare providers and equipment manufacturers grant students access to cutting-edge tools and techniques, further enriching their educational experience and professional readiness.
Who is this program for?
This certificate is intended for individuals seeking to specialize in cardiac sonography within the broader field of diagnostic medical sonography. Whether transitioning from another healthcare discipline or expanding existing sonography experience, the certificate provides focused academic instruction and hands-on clinical training essential for success in cardiac imaging and related allied health roles.
To be eligible for admission, applicants must have completed a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program or hold one or more of the professional ultrasound credentials 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
Real-World Applications
The certificate strongly emphasizes practical application, enabling participants to learn and apply the latest techniques in cardiac sonography within supervised clinical settings. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, learners gain real-world experience through a comprehensive preceptorship that mirrors the daily responsibilities of a diagnostic cardiac sonographer.
The curriculum is designed to ensure that participants can perform a variety of diagnostic procedures, interpret complex medical terminology and patient data, and effectively communicate findings to other healthcare professionals. This combination of technical and interpersonal skills prepares them for immediate entry into professional roles, ready to contribute meaningfully to patient care and cardiac diagnosis.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University integrates the latest advancements in diagnostic medical sonography and instructional methods into the curriculum. Training covers state-of-the-art sonographic equipment and emerging techniques, ensuring participants are well-prepared to adapt to continual developments in the field. This dedication to innovation enriches the learning experience and equips students to become highly qualified and competitive professionals in the healthcare industry.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) emphasizes real-world experience through a comprehensive clinical preceptorship. Participants spend substantial time in clinical settings, applying their knowledge and developing skills under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals. This hands-on training is reinforced by on-campus scanning labs, where participants are introduced to foundational cardiac sonographic techniques and scanning practices, ensuring a well-rounded and practical learning experience.
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 curriculum provides comprehensive instruction in cardiac anatomy, physiology, and the fundamental principles of diagnostic cardiac sonography. Participants develop a solid understanding of cardiovascular structures, sonographic technology, and patient care essentials.
Advanced coursework emphasizes detailed imaging techniques used to diagnose cardiovascular conditions. The certificate also includes a clinical preceptorship that offers hands-on experience in healthcare environments, preparing participants for immediate entry into the workforce.
DMS 450: Echocardiography I
The course is designed to emphasize the fundamental principles of diagnostic cardiac sonography. The student will learn basic cardiovascular anatomy and physiology and the general protocol for transthoracic echocardiograms. Components of the cardiac cycle will be defined along with an understanding of the different modes of echocardiography, including M-mode, 2-dimensional echocardiography, color flow Doppler, and spectral Doppler.
DMS 451: Echocardiography II
The course emphasizes additional cardiac imaging modalities and understanding the fundamentals of transesophageal echocardiography, stress echocardiography, and cardiac catheterization. The student will gain an understanding of the basic embryology of the heart through the 7th week of fetal development and understand the components of fetal circulation. Congenital heart defects and the hemodynamic effects on the cardiovascular system will be defined.
DMS 452: Cardiac Pathophysiology I
The course emphasizes cardiac pathologies involving valvular disease, myocarditis, pericarditis, and prosthetic valves. The student will gain an understanding of the hemodynamic effects these pathologies place on the heart and the associated sonographic findings. They can also differentiate between mechanical and bioprosthetic heart valves and understand the related complications.
Discover the full Certificate in Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer
Diagnostic cardiac sonographers, or echocardiographers, use high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed heart images. They collaborate closely with cardiologists to provide critical diagnostic information for patients with heart conditions. In this role, professionals perform echocardiograms, evaluate blood flow, and detect abnormalities in cardiac function. These specialists are highly sought in hospitals, cardiology clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers.
The Certificate in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography (RDCS) at Fort Hays State University is designed to prepare individuals for careers as diagnostic cardiac medical sonographers. Admission to this certificate is competitive, with preference given to candidates who demonstrate strong potential to make meaningful contributions to medical imaging. The detailed admission requirements are outlined below:
Academic Prerequisites
Applicants must have completed key prerequisite courses to establish a solid foundational knowledge. These courses typically include human anatomy, physiology, and basic principles of sonography. Official transcripts are required to verify completion, and a minimum GPA may be necessary to demonstrate academic readiness. Additionally, applicants are expected to hold an ultrasound certification, ensuring familiarity with medical terminology, patient communication, and clinical settings, which are essential components for advanced study in diagnostic medical sonography.
Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a well-crafted personal statement outlining their motivation for pursuing a career in diagnostic cardiac sonography. The statement should clearly state an understanding of the profession and articulate specific career goals. Additionally, it should highlight relevant experiences that have prepared the applicant for the demands of this rigorous certificate.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation. One letter should be from an academic advisor or faculty member who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities and potential to succeed in a rigorous educational environment. The second letter should come from a healthcare professional familiar with the applicant’s clinical skills and professional conduct in healthcare settings.
Completion of Health and Immunization Requirements
Given the certificate's clinical focus, applicants must fulfill specific health and immunization criteria to ensure safety within clinical environments. These requirements include vaccinations, tuberculosis testing, and other health screenings as mandated by the clinical sites and the certificate guidelines.
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 a range of related programs in diagnostic imaging and health professions. Exploring these pathways can help individuals expand their expertise and enhance career opportunities within the healthcare field. Related options include:
First, enroll in an accredited sonography program or certificate. Then, pass the national registry exams to become a registered sonographer. Finally, participate in clinical preceptorships or internships.
The median salary is around $75,000 per year, depending on location and experience.
This certificate takes six months to complete.
Anatomy, physiology, sonography fundamentals, and a certification in ultrasound are required for this certificate.
Information about the Department of Allied Health
The Department of Allied Health at FHSU integrates healthcare and technology to offer modern on-campus and online programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the medical field. These programs provide students with the skills needed to operate advanced imaging technologies, supporting physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of health conditions.
Whether studying on-campus or online, students gain valuable hands-on experience through a curriculum tailored to meet the demands of various medical imaging environments. The department’s nearly 100% national certification exam pass rate reflects the strength and effectiveness of its programs, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the workforce.
Faculty members provide personalized academic and career mentoring, guiding students toward securing optimal job opportunities in their field.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Association of Radiologic Technology Students (ARTS): This organization helps students build and strengthen professional connections within the healthcare field while offering opportunities to participate in events such as Radiologic Technologist Week.
- Society of Student Sonographers (SSS): This organization provides students with opportunities to connect with professionals in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and participate in a range of professional and educational activities.
- Kansas Society of Radiologic Technologists (KSRT): Radiologic Technology students are encouraged to become members of this statewide professional organization, engage in its annual convention, and pursue leadership opportunities within the society.
- Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (SDMS): Sonography students are encouraged to join this national professional organization, participate in its national convention, and utilize a wide range of valuable resources related to the field.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
