Frequently Asked Questions

Here you'll find answers to some commonly asked questions about our program.

What are the eligibility requirements for the program?

Detailed eligibility criteria, prerequisite coursework and admission requirements can be found on the eligibility and requirements page.

Although the minimum required grade for prerequisite coursework is a C or higher, admission to the program is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on their prerequisite GPA, and those who are selected for admission typically have grades above the minimum requirement. Additionally, coursework in anatomy and physiology is given greater consideration during the review process compared to other prerequisite courses.

Do you offer online courses?

No, the cardiovascular sonography program does not offer an online curriculum. Due to the hands-on, clinical nature of sonography training, courses are delivered in an in-person format to ensure students develop the necessary technical skills and patient care competencies.

When does the application open and close?

The application cycle for each fall entry cohort opens on September 1 and closes on February 1. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to ensure all required materials are submitted on time.

How competitive is the program?

The cardiovascular sonography program is competitive. On average:

Approximately 50 applicants apply each year.
Each fall, the program accepts eight students in total.

Students are selected into specialty tracks, which typically include the following:

Two students in adult echocardiography/pediatric echocardiography.
Six students in adult echocardiography/vascular ultrasound.

What can strengthen my application?

Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate strong preparation and commitment to the profession. The following experiences can significantly enhance your application:

Patient care experience: prior health care experience (e.g., CNA, MA, patient care technician, or similar roles) demonstrates comfort working with patients and understanding clinical environments.
Completion of prerequisite coursework: having all prerequisites completed at the time of application reflects academic readiness and strong time management.
Researching the profession: a clear understanding of the sonography field, including job responsibilities, work environment and expectations, is essential.
Job shadowing/observation experience: observation hours and the ability to articulate what you learned, including how the experience confirmed your career choice, are highly valued during the selection process.

What if I cannot obtain patient care experience?

If you are unable to gain formal patient care experience, volunteer experience within a hospital or clinical setting is an excellent alternative. Volunteering demonstrates initiative, exposure to health care environments and a commitment to patient-centered care.

For volunteer opportunities, please visit The University of Kansas Health System.

What if I live in a rural area and cannot shadow in the pediatric echocardiography setting?

Applicants who are unable to obtain pediatric echocardiography observation hours due to geographic limitations will not be penalized.

However, applicants should perform the following:

Obtain adult echocardiography observation hours.
Provide a clear and thorough explanation within their application describing why pediatric observation was not feasible.

Demonstrating effort and transparency in this situation is important during the admissions review process.

How much does the program cost?

Information regarding tuition, fees and financial aid options is available on the program costs and financial aid page.

How do I apply to the program?

Step-by-step instructions, required materials and application details can be found on the how to apply page.

What is the difference between the certificate and Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.) options?

Both pathways prepare graduates to sit for the same national board examinations and earn identical professional credentials.

The certificate option is ideal if your goal is to work as a sonographer without pursuing additional career advancement.
The bachelor's degree is recommended for those interested in leadership, management, education or industry roles (such as medical sales).

Is the program accredited?

The program is CAAHEP accredited, ensuring it meets national standards for quality education and prepares graduates for certification and employment.

What certification exams will I be eligible to take?

Graduates are eligible to sit for national credentialing exams through the following organizations:

ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography)
- Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS, AE)
- Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS, PE)
- Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT)
CCI (Cardiovascular Credentialing International)
- Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS)
- Registered Congenital Cardiac Sonographer (RCCS)
- Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS)

How can I find out if my previous credits will transfer?

To determine whether your prior coursework will transfer, visit KU CredTran.

Where can I view program outcomes?

Program outcomes, including credentialing exam pass rates, job placement rates and retention statistics, are available at the bottom of the program overview page.

Where can I learn more about the sonography profession?

The following professional organizations provide valuable information about the field of diagnostic medical sonography, certification, professional standards and career opportunities:

These resources can help you better understand professional expectations, certification pathways and advancements within the field.