Diagnostic Medical Sonography - General

Diploma

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Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (DMS) are highly trained, in-demand professionals who use ultrasound to produce high-quality images of the body’s internal structures and organs. As a student in the DMS - General program, you will become proficient in non-cardiac ultrasound and will learn how to examine and evaluate structures and organs in the body other than the heart. Led by expert instructors, our comprehensive curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on training, covering anatomy, physiology, patient care, ultrasound physics, imaging techniques, pathology, and much more. Gain practical experience through simulation labs, industry-standard equipment, and clinical placements under the guidance of experienced sonographers. Graduates are eligible to challenge the Sonography Canada Core and Generalist certification exams to become registered diagnostic medical sonographers.

Unlock your potential in the fascinating world of medical imaging. Enroll today and be part of the future of healthcare.

When applying to this program: Select “Diagnostic Medical Sonography - General and Cardiac” in the application. You can indicate your interest in this General stream during the program interview stage.

Upcoming Intakes

Select your preferred intake to see relevant program information. Program details, including tuition and course information, may vary by intake.

Selection Start Date Delivery Mode Time Campus Length Domestic Status International Status
Sep. 02, 2025 (Fall) Hybrid Weekdays - Daytime Main 2 Years (Full-time) Closed Closed
 
             
 

Swipe table to view more information for each intake.

Delivery Mode

  • In-person - All your class activity will be delivered in person, on campus.
  • Online - All your class activity will be delivered online.
  • Hybrid - Your classes will be a mixture of in person and online learning. You must be able to come to campus and participate remotely online.
  • Your choice - Your program offers a variety of class delivery options (in person, online, or a mixture of both) and you can select which type of classes to take. If you wish, you can complete your entire program either in-person or online.
  • HyFlex - All your classes are delivered for simultaneous participation in person and online. You can choose daily to attend your classes in person or join remotely online.

Time

  • Your choice - You can select class times and days that fit your schedule. There are a variety of class options for you to choose from including daytime, evening, weekdays or weekends.
  • No set time - No set class days or times, content is access on-demand. You can complete your studies on your own schedule within the scheduled class dates; may have set due dates and deadlines.
  • Evenings & Weekends - Classes are scheduled after 5 p.m. on weekdays or anytime on weekends.
  • Weekdays - Daytime - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start before 6 p.m.
  • Weekdays - Evening - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start after 6 p.m.
  • Weekends - Classes are scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays.

Campus

Any in-person components of your courses will be delivered at this campus location.

View Campus Map

Length

  • Full-Time - This is the standard length to complete the program, with a full course load per term.
  • Part-Time - Students follow a structured schedule of classes so they can progress in their studies part-time while balancing everyday life.

Domestic Status

The program availability status for domestic applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

International Status

The program availability status for international applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Limited - For international applicants, the program intake is now only available if you already have a valid study permit.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

Credit programs that accept international applicants also meet the eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, including programs with a Hybrid delivery mode. Each student is responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.

Hands-on, Industry Relevant Skills

Students will gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to non-cardiac ultrasound imaging techniques and procedures. This program focuses on the use of ultrasound technology for diagnosing and evaluating various organs and structures in the body, excluding the heart. Key learning outcomes include:

  1. Anatomy and Physiology: Students will acquire a deep understanding of human anatomy and physiology, specifically related to the organs and structures that are examined in non-cardiac ultrasound. This includes detailed knowledge of the abdomen, pelvis, select vasculature systems, thyroid, scrotal, and other relevant areas.
     
  2. Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation: Students will learn the fundamental principles of ultrasound physics and gain proficiency in operating ultrasound equipment and optimizing imaging settings.
     
  3. Scanning Techniques and Protocols: The program will cover a variety of scanning techniques and protocols specific to non-cardiac ultrasound imaging. Students will learn how to position patients, manipulate transducers, and acquire optimal images of different organs and structures. They will also learn to recognize normal anatomy and identify common abnormalities or pathologies.
     
  4. Pathology Recognition: Students will develop skills in recognizing and interpreting ultrasound findings associated with various pathological conditions. They will learn to differentiate between normal and abnormal ultrasound images, identify signs of disease, and understand the clinical significance of different findings.
     
  5. Patient Care and Communication: A crucial aspect of diagnostic medical imaging is patient care and communication. Students will learn effective communication strategies, patient positioning, and techniques for maintaining patient comfort and safety during ultrasound examinations. They will also develop skills in obtaining patient histories and explaining procedures to patients.
     
  6. Professional and Ethical Considerations: The program will emphasize the importance of professionalism, ethics, and legal responsibilities in the field of diagnostic medical imaging. Students will learn about patient confidentiality, informed consent, professional boundaries, and adherence to industry standards and regulations.
     

Is diagnostic medical sonography (DMS) right for you?

There are multiple careers related to diagnostic imaging and there are even multiple programs focusing on each of those disciplines right here at NAIT. If you're interested in diagnostic sonography, we recommend fully investigating the profession and the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program before making your final decision. We encourage all applicants to do the following prior to applying:

  1. Review all the information on the program's webpages
  2. Attend Open House
  3. Sit in on an info session with the program instructor — register using the links below
  4. Join us for Program Previews in February

Upcoming info sessions for the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program

Register using the Teams links below to attend one of the online info sessions with the instructor, Carmen Puchyr.

Work Experience Placements

Students in this program gain valuable work experience with Work Integrated Learning (WIL). WIL is a form of experiential learning that integrates academic studies with relevant work-based learning. The WIL placement in this program is a Clinical Placement.

Clinical Placement

A Clinical Placement involves work experience under the supervision of an experienced registered or licensed professional (e.g. preceptor) in any discipline that requires practice-based work experience for professional licensure or certification. Practica are generally unpaid and the work is done in a supervised setting.

Duration 33 weeks
Compensation No
International Students Co-op Work Permit required
Placement Identified By Program Staff - Students are placed with employers by the program.
Student Interview Required No
Non-academic requirements

Immunization - General
Once accepted into the program, students must ensure their immunizations are current to the Alberta Health Services Immunization Standards. The program will contact you with specific instructions for completing the immunization requirements. If you do not meet the immunization requirements, your work-integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, and there may be restrictions to campus lab and clinic experience, which may ultimately impede your progression in the program.

Police Check
Students are required to provide a current Police Information Check (also referred to as a Security Clearance or Criminal Record Check) which must include a Vulnerable Sector Search. Please do not proceed with the Police Information Check until an offer of acceptance and follow-up instructions have been issued by the program. The Police Information Check is only considered valid when reviewed by a NAIT official within 90 days of completion. If you do not meet the police information check requirements, your work-integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, which may ultimately impede your progress in the program.

CPR (Basic Life Support - BLS)
Students must provide evidence of current BLS certification prior to commencing clinical training. BLS certification must remain current throughout clinical training, therefore, it is recommended that certification be obtained just prior to clinical training. The BLS certification course that meets this requirement must be designed for individuals who will be health care providers. The NAIT Continuing Education Course that meets this requirement is CPRS100 - Basic Life Support | NAIT.

N95 Testing
It is a program requirement to fit test students to an N95 respirator prior to their clinical placement to ensure proper PPE safety. For an effective N95 respirator seal, you must be clean-shaven during your fit testing session and clinical rotation. You will be required to be fit tested every two years or sooner depending on the policies of your work site. If there is a change in facial features due to weight gain/loss, pregnancy, dental work, etc. you will also need to be refitted to ensure an effective respirator seal.

Any prospective students with back, arm, shoulder, wrist or neck problems or significant health challenges should consider their options carefully before applying and are advised to consult with the program.

Benefits of a Clinical Placement
  • Understand more about career opportunities, expectations and requirements of the professional field
  • Gain the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment
  • Create networking opportunities in your chosen industry
  • Develop and improve communication, interpersonal and employment skills
  • Gain confidence in your professional skills
  • Practice job placement skills including job search, resume preparation, interviewing
  • Explore career options and program specialization within the industry
  • Improve application for future positions by gaining industry experience and increasing your employability
  • Possibility of employment after graduation
  • Potential financial benefits if the placement is paid
What you can expect during your Clinical Placement

The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) experience is comprised of three consecutive clinical courses totalling 33 weeks. Students will rotate through various clinical environments in different urban and/or rural locations, from hospitals to outpatient clinics, to provide learners with a robust practical training experience. Students should expect to attend their placements an average of 8 hours per day, five days per week, and will be scheduled for a variety of daytime, evening, and weekend shifts. Placement sites are located mostly throughout Alberta, with some potential rotations in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories; all costs associated with relocation for WIL placements are the student's responsibility.

Additionally, review and application of the theoretical material learnt during the didactic portion of the program is an expectation. This will be implemented using various theory assignments. These will accompany the 40-hour/week clinical rotations outlined above.

Contact

Tuition & Fees

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 2025 intake.

The tuition and fee amounts are estimates based on current academic year's rates. For financial planning purposes, please use these totals as an approximate estimate of your costs. Actual fees may vary by term and enrolment activities. Please refer to the tuition and fees page for more detailed information.

Tuition

Cost Per Credit: $222.00

View international tuition for upcoming intakes

How much does first year cost?
Domestic cost estimate
International cost estimate

Mandatory Fees

View fee listing and breakdown

Pay Your Tuition & Fees

Books, Supplies & Program Fees (est.)

Level 1 Term 1: $1,700
Level 1 Term 2: $875
Level 2 Term 1: $200
Level 2 Term 2: $200
Level 3 Term 1: $250
Level 3 Term 2: $250


Scholarships & Awards

NAIT awards over $6 million in scholarships and bursaries to more than 4,000 students each year, with the support of donors and the government. A variety of awards are available, including ones for academics, community involvement, equity/diversity grants, bursaries for financial need, program-specific awards and more!

Learn how to apply for awards

Admission Requirements

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 2025 intake.

Minimum entrance requirements

 

The specific academic requirements you must meet to be considered for admission. Where applicable, the minimum accepted Alberta high school courses are listed in round brackets ( ). Equivalent or higher-level courses are also accepted.

  • 75% in each of:

    • Grade 12 Language Arts (English 30-2)
    • Grade 12 Mathematics (Math 30-2)
    • Grade 12 Biology (Biology 30)
    • Grade 12 Physics (Physics 30)

  • Proof of English Language Proficiency

  • Online Interview - See Competitive Entrance Requirements for details.

  • Medical Terminology: Completion of NAIT ITMS100 - Medical Terminology with a minimum final grade of 60% within the last 5 years. Limited Alberta only post-secondary Medical Terminology courses that are 1 or more credits and completed within 5 years of the application deadline with a final grade of 60% or greater may be considered for equivalency. Applicants must submit proof of meeting this requirement by July 31st. Early registration in the course is encouraged to ensure sufficient time to complete the course prior to the due date.

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology: Completion of NAIT ANPH100 Anatomy and Physiology with a minimum final grade of 60% within the last 5 years. Limited Alberta only post-secondary Human Anatomy and Physiology courses that are 3 or more credits and completed within 5 years of the application deadline with a final grade of 60% or greater may be considered for equivalency. Applicants must submit proof of meeting this requirement by July 31st. Early registration in the course is encouraged to ensure sufficient time to complete the course prior to the due date.

Competitive entrance requirements

 

Admission for this program is not guaranteed by only meeting the minimum requirements, as the program has competitive entrance and/or an interview process. Learn more about competitive entrance or program interviews.

Applicants who meet the program’s minimum entrance requirements and submit all required documents will be invited to a program interview. After the interview, applicants with the highest interview score will be admitted first. Approximately 4 months after applications open, if additional seats are available, varying interview scores may be considered. The scores required for admission can vary by program and intake.

  • The 1st round of interviews is expected to occur mid October. The timing of your invitations will be based on when your completed application was submitted.

More information about the program interview process can be found on the program interview page.

Due to the high volume of interviews in the School of Health and Life Sciences, the program(s) is unable to provide applicants with feedback on their interview submissions.

Additional requirements & considerations

Post-admission requirements

 

Although not required for admission, you must meet the following requirement(s) in order to progress in your program.

  • Computer Literacy - Basic

Basic computer literacy is required for a successful progression in this course. This comprises, but is not limited to, possessing fluency in basic word processing, spreadsheet creation, and an understanding of email and web best practices.

  • CPR (Basic Life Support - BLS)

Students must provide evidence of current BLS certification prior to commencing clinical training. BLS certification must remain current throughout clinical training therefore it is recommended that certification be obtained just prior to clinical training. The BLS certification course that meets this requirement must be designed for individuals who will be health care providers. The NAIT Continuing Education Course that meets this requirement is CPRS100 - Basic Life Support.

  • Immunization – School of Health and Life Science:

For the 2024-25 academic year, NAIT has partnered with Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to provide support and clearance for the School of Health and Life Sciences clinical placement requirements. The Synergy Gateway platform allows you to digitally upload the documentation for your program and practicum requirements.

The program will contact you with specific instructions and information for completing the immunization requirements. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all the necessary documents are obtained and submitted to Verified by the deadlines provided by the program.

If you do not meet the immunization requirements, your work-integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, and there may be restrictions to campus lab and clinic experience, which may ultimately impede your progression in the program.

Any associated fees for Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to complete the pre-placement requirements are the sole responsibility of the student.

  • Police Check – School of Health and Life Science:

For the 2024-25 academic year, NAIT has partnered with Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to provide support and clearance for the School of Health and Life Sciences clinical placement requirements. The Synergy Gateway platform allows you to digitally upload the documentation for your program and practicum requirements.

Students are required to provide a current Police Information Check (also referred to as a Security Clearance or Criminal Record Check) which must include a Vulnerable Sector Search. Please do not proceed with the Police Information Check until an offer of acceptance and follow-up instructions have been issued by the program. The Police Information Check is only considered valid when submitted within 90 days of the program start date. If you do not meet the police information check requirements, your work-integrated learning experience (clinical training) may be refused by a clinical site, which may ultimately impede your progress in the program. If you have concerns about the clearance status of your Police Information Check, contact SHLSWIL@nait.ca immediately upon acceptance to the program.

It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all the necessary documents are obtained and submitted to Verified by the deadlines provided by the program. Any associated fees for Verified by Synergy Gateway Inc. to complete the pre-placement requirements are the sole responsibility of the student.

Program Exploration Activities: Applicants should fully investigate the profession, and are encouraged to complete the following activities to ensure an understanding of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program and profession:

  • Review the program website

  • Attend Open House

  • Attend Program Preview

  • Attend DMS Information Session (Click on links to register*)

Saturday, September 16, 2023 - 9:00am, or Thursday, February 8, 2024 - 6:00pm, or Saturday, April 13, 2024 - 9:00am

*The same information will be presented at each session, please only register for one session.

  • N95 Testing: It is a program requirement to fit test students to an N95 respirator prior to your clinical placement to ensure proper PPE safety. For an effective N95 respirator seal, you must be clean shaven during your fit testing session and clinical rotation. You will be required to be fit tested every two years or sooner depending on the policies of your work site. If there is a change in facial features due to weight gain/loss, pregnancy, dental work, etc. you will also need to be refitted to ensure an effective respirator seal.

Not sure if you meet the requirements?

Learn more about how NAIT evaluates applications, and find resources on how to satisfy admissions criteria.

How applications are evaluated Submitting required documents

Additional options

This program has courses that are available for Open Studies. Open Studies allows you to explore credit courses without applying to a program. It is an opportunity to get a feel for school and what program you want to be in.

Learn more about Open Studies

Dates & Deadlines

 
International
Applications Open:

Aug 01, 2024

 
International
Applications Deadline:

Once the program is full

 
Domestic
Applications Open:
Oct 01, 2024
 
Application Deadline:
Once the program is full
 
Term Start Date:
Sep 02, 2025

Seats are limited - Apply early! Applications will remain open for at least one month from the open date. If the program/waitlist fill after that date, applications will close.

International Applicants

This program accepts international students.

PGWP Eligibility

Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), following Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements. Students must still meet all other PGWP eligibility requirements, including full-time and in-person study requirements.

Co-Op Work Permit

Mandatory Co-op: This program has a mandatory work-integrated learning component. International students must apply for a co-op work permit and have it approved before the start of their work placement.

Learn more about PGWP and explore eligible NAIT programs.

Want to learn more about this program?

Thank you for your interest! We want to get you in contact with the right person to answer your questions. If you are a current or recently admitted student you can find program and course information as well as contact details for your program on the My Program page on the MyNAIT Portal.








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