Diagnostic Medical Sonography - General and Cardiac

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 and Cardiac program, you will become proficient in both general and cardiac ultrasound and will learn how to examine and evaluate structures and organs in the body. 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. Students 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, Generalist, and Cardiac certification exams to become registered diagnostic medical sonographers in both general and cardiac ultrasound.

Unlock your potential, gain specialized knowledge, and make a difference in patient care. Enroll today and take the first step towards an inspiring career in medical imaging.

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 2.5 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.

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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 training

By the end of the Sonography program, you’ll be confident with ultrasound imaging and skilled in obstetrics and gynecology, abdomen and superficial structure scanning and cardiac sonography and vascular studies.

Due to practicum placements, you can expect much of the program to be completed off campus, and may involve working evening and weekend shifts in hospitals and community care clinics.

The Sonography program has a heavy course load – you should expect 54 hours per week of in-class and out-of-class learning.Your clinical rotation will be comprised of 40-hour work weeks. Students receive theoretical and clinical training in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. A number of course hours are completed off campus and may involve working evenings and weekends. In addition to the more traditional lecture and laboratory settings, students also gain clinical experience in a variety of locations both on and off campus. Selected seminars and labs may be scheduled in the evenings and on weekends.

Students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program work in labs equipped with state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment, including:

  • 2D ultrasound systems with Doppler
  • 3D/4D ultrasound systems 
  • dedicated echocardiography scanning systems 
  • portable point of care (emergency response) systems
  • physiological peripheral arterial testing systems 
  • simulators that can be programmed to display normal or abnormal cases for abdomen, obstetrics, gynecology,and cardiac
  • picture archiving computer systems

Program goals:

  • Foster an environment of clinical and academic excellence that prepares students to be competent, active members or leaders in the healthcare community.
  • Graduate students who possess competencies and behaviours required for entry-level sonographers in accordance with the prevailing competency profiles of Sonography Canada.
  • Provide an education experience that promotes a graduate's commitment for continued professional development.
  • Develop students' communication, critical thinking, problem solving and leadership skills.
  • Graduate students who demonstrate compassion and ethical, safe, quality health care to a diverse population. 
  • Provide a learning experience in which graduates will be highly satisfied.
  • Graduate students with whom employers will be highly satisfied. 

Students will have the opportunity to attain all the required skills in the Sonography Canada National Competency Profile (NCP). and complete the Sonography Canada Canadian Clinical Skills Assessments (CCSA) for the Generalist and Cardiac Sonographer during the program.

DMS Equipment

Open Studies Pathway

You now have an additional pathway to the School of Health and Life Sciences at NAIT. Complete one or more select Open Studies courses to be guaranteed a program entrance interview.

Pushing the limits of simulation training

NAIT's Simulation Centre re-creates the real world of health-care careers

Keeping it Real

From practicing on high-fidelity manikins to learning on the latest software, watch how NAIT students practice the best patient care.

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.

Career Outcomes

Please refer to the Sonography Canada website to learn more about requirements for licensing/mandatory registration and declaration of conduct, which may include disclosure of information related to criminal convictions and professional misconduct or incompetence as well as any personal factors that could impact the ability to practice safely.

Continuing Education is mandatory for this profession. Competence is maintained by taking a minimum number of continuing education credits every three years.

Job Opportunities

Median Starting Salary

The expected starting salary for individuals with a(n) Diagnostic Medical Sonography - General and Cardiac Diploma is $80,000.
This salary information was based on graduate data from the past 3 years and reflects annual salaries for graduates who claimed they were working more than 30 hours per week. Graduates who quoted salaries below $10,000 and above $200,000 per year have been excluded. Note that NAIT publishes the median salary instead of the average to minimize the potential of outlying salaries distorting the mean. Data represented here may differ from other data sources due to differences in definition or differences in timing.

Grad Employment Rate

Employment rates are reported by NAIT alumni, are for information purposes, and do not guarantee future employment opportunities. Please note that data for newer programs may not be included within this report.

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Take your career planning to the next level

This program can be used as a step toward earning higher credentials and/or certifications.

Further education at NAIT

Once you complete your credential, explore the programs below to specialize further or develop management skills.

Further education at other institutions
  • Bachelor of Science in Human Sciences, Athabasca University
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences, Thompson Rivers
  • Bachelor of Applied Management, University of New Brunswick
Other Opportunities

Post-Graduation Affiliation After successful completion of both the didactic and clinical components of the program, graduates are eligible to write specific registration examinations, these include the Sonography Canada Generalist and Cardiac exams (https://sonographycanada.ca/) and/or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) Abdomen, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiac exams (http://www.ardms.org/).

Post-secondary articulation agreements within Alberta are approved by the Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfer (ACAT). To view the details of specific agreements, please visit transferalberta.ca or contact articulations@nait.ca For questions regarding transfer agreements or to obtain a course description/outline that is no longer available on our website, please contact articulations@nait.ca.

Alumni Profile: Kaylee Demkiw

Kaylee's training opened the door to a rewarding career in the leading edge, high-risk perinatal clinic at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton.

Build your resume before you even graduate

Explore work experience opportunities that help grads get hired even sooner.

View Work Integrated Learning

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 48 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.

IV Certification
Students will be required to provide proof of successful completion of an IV Certification course prior to enrolling in the clinical training. The NAIT PHAE504 - Introduction to Intravenous (IV) Insertions course meets this requirement. All cost associated with obtaining IV Certification is the responsibility of the student and are not included in the program tuition or fees. If you have previously obtained IV Certification within your profession (e.g. Nuclear Medicine), please provide a copy of your transcript to program staff at your earliest convenience.

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 four consecutive clinical courses totalling 48 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 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

Courses and Advanced Credit

Current and recently admitted students can find information and updates about their program on their My Program page in the MyNAIT Portal. To monitor your course progress and the courses still needed to graduate, visit your Academic Progress Report.

Advanced Credit

You may apply for advanced credit once you have been accepted into the program. Advanced credit can be Transfer Credit (for completed post-secondary courses) or PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition).

Transfer Credit

In addition to the common guidelines outlined on the Transfer and Credit Options section, your program has other advanced credit requirements that are applied to each request including:

  • You must have completed the course or program no more than 5 year(s) ago unless a formalized articulation agreement is in place
  • You must have a minimum mark of C- in the course(s) or program

Read more about advanced credit or contact us about applying for credit for this program.

Courses

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

Expand each course below to see details about credits, requisites, scheduling, and more.

Term 1

DMSC1101Introduction to Diagnostic Medical Sonography
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer must adhere to prescribed standards related to professionalism and interactions with patients. In this course, students will learn about the legislation and standards of practice as they pertain to diagnostic medical sonography. To advance the process of reconciliation and address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action, students will examine the history, impact, and legacy of colonialism on Indigenous health in Canada and develop intercultural competence to provide culturally competent care and services. This course will allow students to reflect on their own values, beliefs and attitudes toward patient care while providing the fundamentals of interpersonal communication used in healthcare including emotional awareness, empathy, health literacy, and patient education. Students will also explore strategies for managing stressful situations, building resiliency, giving and receiving feedback, and reflective practice.

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DMSC1102Physical Principles and Instrumentation in Sonography
  • Open Studies: Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Sonographers must draw on their knowledge of physics and manipulate the ultrasound equipment when acquiring sonographic images. In this course, students will learn the mechanisms by which sound travels through and interacts with various media in the body. Instrumentation associated with generating the sound beam and processing the returning echoes are examined. Assessing blood flow using various kinds of Doppler imaging constitutes an important part of the course. Recognition and management of artifacts are also discussed. Safety considerations for both the operator and patient are included throughout this course.

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DMSC1105Sonography of the Normal Abdominal and Superficial Structures
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Co-Requisites: DMSC1101, DMSC1102.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

It is essential that sonographers are able to recognize normal anatomy when they perform sonographic studies of the abdominal organs and superficial structures. Students will learn normal cross-sectional anatomy and physiology of the abdominal organs and superficial structures, as well as the relational anatomy between these structures in the human body. Superficial structures of the body include the thyroid, parathyroid and salivary glands, breast, abdominal wall, prostate, scrotum and testicles. The theory taught in this course will be integrated into the lab setting where students will develop skills and sonographic techniques necessary to image the abdominal organs.

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DMSC1130Introduction to the Cardiovascular System
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Co-Requisite: DMSC1102.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Foundational knowledge of the cardiovascular system, in the context of ultrasound, is paramount before detailed discussions can begin in the echocardiography and vascular ultrasound courses. This course will discuss the anatomy and interconnectedness of the cardiovascular system and the hemodynamic principles involved. Specific calculations and ultrasound measurements used in the evaluation of the cardiovascular system will be summarized. The laboratory component of this course will focus on the operation of ultrasound controls for different imaging modes.

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DMSC1140Gynaecologic Sonography
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Co-requisites: DMSC1101, DMSC1102.
  • Course Equivalencies: DMSC1140B
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers integrate anatomy and physiology when performing an ultrasound of the uterus, vagina, ovaries, and supporting adnexal structures. Students will learn the normal sonographic appearance of these organs through the various stages of development and phases of life. The study of pathological conditions and their related sonographic appearance will enable students to recognize and describe abnormal findings while incorporating relevant clinical history. Students will have an opportunity to demonstrate sonographic scanning techniques in the lab component of this course.

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Term 2

DMSC2205Pathology of the Abdomen and Superficial Structures in Sonography
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Pre-Requisites: DMSC1101, DMSC1102, DMSC1105, DMSC1140.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

It is essential that sonographers are able to differentiate normal anatomy and pathological conditions when they perform sonographic studies of the abdominal organs and superficial structures. Students will learn about pathological conditions related to abdominal organs and superficial structures. Students also learn about the relational anatomy between these structures in the human body. Superficial structures of the body include thyroid and parathyroid glands, breast, abdominal wall, prostate, scrotum and testicles. Students will have an opportunity to perform sonographic scanning techniques used to image the superficial structures, abdominal organs, and pelvic structures.

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DMSC2230Fundamentals of Adult Echocardiography
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Prerequisites: DMSC1101, DMSC1102, DMSC1105, DMSC1130.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Cardiac function is comprised of many components that work together. This course will focus on systolic and diastolic heart function and explore the implications of ischemic heart disease. Investigative techniques performed in an echocardiogram are discussed including the correlation with other diagnostic tests. Interventional ultrasound studies and the role of the sonographer in these exams will also be reviewed. Hands-on ultrasound scanning in the laboratory component of this course will reinforce the standard echocardiographic views and measurements obtained in a diagnostic echocardiogram.

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DMSC2240Obstetrical Sonography of the First Trimester
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Prerequisites: DMSC1101, DMSC1102, DMSC1140.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Students will learn anatomy, embryology, pathophysiology, sonographic imaging and differential diagnosis as it pertains to a first trimester obstetric patient. Students will have an opportunity to demonstrate sonographic scanning and imaging techniques in the laboratory component of this course.

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DMSC2350Sonography of the Cerebral and Abdominal Vascular Systems
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Prerequisites: DMSC1101, DMSC1102, DMSC1105, DMSC1130. Co-Requisite: DMSC2205.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

This vascular course is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the principles and techniques involved with Doppler ultrasound imaging. In this course, students will learn concepts relating to the cerebral and abdominal vascular systems including anatomy, physiology, hemodynamics, normal, and pathological presentations. Students will also learn about the diagnostic studies for the evaluation of these vessels, including hands-on training for the commonly performed vascular studies in the field.

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Term 3

DMSC2201Professional Practice in Sonography
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Pre-Requisites: DMSC2205. Co-Requisite: DMSC2340, DMSC2250.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers use many skills when providing patient care and performing sonographic studies. In this course, students will focus on safety and patient care. Students will demonstrate professional communication skills while adapting to complex or challenging situations. Active participation in laboratory settings reinforces the use of ultrasound instrumentation, relational anatomy, representative imaging, and time and accuracy.

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DMSC2250Sonography of the Peripheral Venous System and Duplex Scanning of a Carotid Artery
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Prerequisites: DMSC2350.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers may be expected to scan peripheral venous and carotid artery studies. In this course, students learn concepts relating to the peripheral venous system including physiology, normal and pathological presentations, and the diagnostic studies used to evaluate this system. Students will also review and perform a duplex scan of a carotid artery in preparation for clinical. Active participation in laboratory settings reinforces theoretical knowledge and scanning techniques. Students will be required to perform basic assessments of these vessels.

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DMSC2330Integrative Assessment in Adult Echocardiography
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Prerequisite: DMSC2230.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

Echocardiography is one of the initial investigative clinical exams performed to assess the presence or absence of heart disease. This course will discuss different pathologies that affect the heart and how they present on ultrasound images and correlate these findings with the results from other modalities. The laboratory component of this course offers students the opportunity for practical, hands-on experience to obtain the images and measurements required for a diagnostic echocardiogram. The course will also review the additional images that are required and the techniques to obtain them when pathology is present.

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DMSC2340Sonographic Assessment of the Second and Third Trimester
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Prerequisite: DMSC2240.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform sonographic studies on obstetrical patients. This course will prepare students to participate in second and third trimester obstetrical sonograms in work-integrated learning. Students will learn maternal and fetal pathologies encountered in second and third trimester sonography. This will include descriptions of diseases, clinical presentation, sonographic appearance, and differential diagnosis. Active participation in the sonography lab will reinforce scanning techniques.

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Term 4

DMSC2091DMS Clinical I
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Pre-Requisites: DMSC2201, DMSC2250, DMSC2340, DMSC2330.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers integrate theoretical and clinical skills while performing sonographic examinations. In this work-integrated learning (WIL) course students will be introduced to the clinical environment. Students will observe and perform sonographic studies under the guidance of registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Students will attend a variety of clinical settings to achieve specific clinical objectives to perform entry-level competencies as specified by Sonography Canada's current National Competency Profiles. Emphasis will be placed on professionalism, interprofessionalism, patient care, and scanning techniques. WIL placements are located within the greater Edmonton area, Alberta, or out of province if necessary.

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DMSC3092DMS Clinical II
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Pre-Requisite: DMSC2091.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers integrate theoretical and clinical skills while performing sonographic procedures. In this work-integrated learning (WIL) course, students will continue to integrate theoretical and clinical skills. Students will perform sonographic studies under the guidance of registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Students will attend a variety of clinical settings to achieve specific clinical objectives to perform entry-level competencies as specified by Sonography Canada's current National Competency Profiles. Emphasis will be placed on professionalism, interprofessionalism, patient care, critical thinking, technical analysis, and scanning techniques. WIL placements are located within the greater Edmonton area, across Alberta, and if necessary, out of province.

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IPHE2201Interprofessional Healthcare Education
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the EMT,CLX,MRD,MLT,MRT,RET,DMS, and PCP programs.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Students will learn with, from, and about one another to improve patient care as a part of an interprofessional team. Role clarity, communication, and person-centered care will be analyzed, along with conflict, team functioning, and patient safety, from an interprofessional perspective. Students will use these skills to practice effectively within a diverse interprofessional team.

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Term 5

DMSC3093DMS Clinical III
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Pre-Requisite: DMSC3092.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

This course continues to integrate theoretical and clinical skills while performing sonographic examinations. The student will attend a variety of clinical settings to achieve specific clinical objectives to perform entry-level competencies as specified by Sonography Canada's current National Competency Profiles. Emphasis will be placed on professionalism, interprofessionalism, patient care, critical thinking, technical analysis, scanning techniques, and efficiency. Student work-integrated placements involve hospital and clinic settings within the greater Edmonton area, across Alberta, and if necessary, out of province.

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Term 6

DMSC3094DMS Clinical IV
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. Pre-Requisite: DMSC3093.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

This course continues to integrate theoretical and clinical skills while performing sonographic examinations. The student will attend a variety of clinical settings to achieve specific clinical objectives to perform entry-to-practice competencies as specified by Sonography Canada's current National Competency Profiles. Emphasis will be placed on professionalism, interprofessionalism, patient care, safety, critical thinking, technical analysis, scanning techniques, and efficiency. Student work-integrated placements involve hospital and clinic settings within the greater Edmonton area, across Alberta, and if necessary, out of province.

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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

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

Mandatory Fees

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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.

Seats in this program are reserved for applicants currently residing in Saskatchewan via an interprovincial health training agreement. Limited space is available, and applicants are encouraged to submit an applications as early as possible.

  • NOTE: Applicants admitted through an interprovincial health agreement may have Human Anatomy & Physiology along with Medical Terminology requirements completed in their home province submitted to NAIT for consideration. All other applicants must follow guidelines on Anatomy & Physiology, along with Medical Terminology as outlined in the “minimum entrance requirements” above.

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.

  • Health Requirement - Physical Ailments

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • IV Certification Students will be required to provide proof of successful completion of an IV Certification course prior to enrolling in the clinical training. The NAIT PHAE504 - Introduction to Intravenous (IV) Insertions course meets this requirement. All cost associated with obtaining IV Certification is the responsibility of the student and not included in the program tuition or fees. If you have previously obtained IV Certification within your profession (e.g. Nuclear Medicine), please provide a copy of your transcript to program staff at your earliest convenience.

  • 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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