The program is rigorous, and students who plan to work or who have significant family responsibilities are encouraged to plan their schedules to accommodate the time commitment that this program demands. The curriculum of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is available online. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation. It is also necessary to consider transportation costs to the college, as well as hospitals throughout the city. Full-time students are eligible for a free DART bus and light rail pass.
Students are responsible for any parking fees.
El Centro students begin their hospital rotations the first week of class. Students rotate through metroplex hospitals, using a wide variety of ultrasound equipment. After completing the required clinical rotations, they may choose specialty areas such as a vascular rotation. Students also have open access to the college ultrasound scanning labs for additional scanning time. Students take oral, practical, and written exams over each organ.