If you are planning to become a diagnostic medical sonographer, one of the first things to check is the Keiser University sonography prerequisites. Keiser University offers an Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography that combines classroom education, laboratory instruction, and clinical training to prepare students for entry-level careers in ultrasound imaging.
The program is designed for students interested in areas such as abdominal imaging, obstetrics and gynecology, and vascular sonography. Before entering the major courses, students must meet specific academic and screening requirements.
What Are the Keiser University Sonography Prerequisites?
Keiser University currently lists several requirements for students entering its Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. These include completing specified general education courses, maintaining a minimum GPA, and completing required background and screening procedures.
The university lists the following major prerequisites:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I
- Human Anatomy and Physiology II
- General Physics I
- English I
- Intermediate Algebra
- Minimum grade of C in required general education courses
- A cumulative 3.0 GPA for general education courses
- Background check
- Drug screening
These requirements help ensure that students have the academic foundation and eligibility needed before beginning the specialized sonography curriculum.
Required Prerequisite Courses
1. Human Anatomy and Physiology I
Anatomy and physiology are fundamental subjects for sonography students. Human Anatomy and Physiology I introduces students to the structure and function of the human body.
This knowledge becomes useful later when students study ultrasound images and learn how organs, tissues, and body systems appear during diagnostic examinations.
2. Human Anatomy and Physiology II
The second anatomy and physiology course builds on the first course and provides additional knowledge of human body systems.
Students entering diagnostic medical sonography need a strong foundation in anatomy because ultrasound professionals must identify normal anatomical structures and recognize differences that may require further evaluation by physicians.
3. General Physics I
Physics plays an important role in diagnostic ultrasound because sonography uses high-frequency sound waves to produce medical images.
General Physics I gives students a foundation that can help them later study acoustic physics, ultrasound equipment, image production, and related technical concepts.
4. English I
Strong communication skills are useful in healthcare. English coursework can help students develop written and communication skills needed for academic assignments, clinical documentation, and professional interactions.
5. Intermediate Algebra
Mathematics is another prerequisite listed for the program. Intermediate Algebra provides foundational mathematical skills that can be useful in physics and technical healthcare coursework.
Keiser University specifically lists Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, General Physics I, English I, and Intermediate Algebra among the prerequisite courses for its Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
What GPA Is Required for Keiser University Sonography?
The current Keiser University program information states that students need a 3.0 cumulative grade average on a 4.0 scale for general education courses.
Required lower-division general education courses must also be completed with at least a C grade. Students should therefore pay close attention to their grades in prerequisite subjects before moving into major sonography courses.
A strong academic record can also be helpful because sonography involves science, technical equipment, patient care, anatomy, physics, and clinical decision-making.
Background Check and Drug Screening
Academic qualifications are not the only requirements. Keiser University also lists a background check and drug screening as prerequisites for the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
These requirements are relevant because students participate in clinical education and may train in healthcare facilities. Clinical sites can have their own rules and eligibility requirements, so students should confirm the requirements applicable to their campus and clinical placement.
What Do Students Study After Completing the Prerequisites?
Once students progress into the major, the curriculum moves into specialized sonography subjects.
Keiser University’s program includes coursework in areas such as:
- Introduction to Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Practical Aspects of Sonography
- Cross-Sectional Anatomy
- Acoustic Physics and Instrumentation
- Abdominal Sonography
- OB/GYN Sonography
- Vascular Sonography
- Clinical rotations
- Sonography review courses
The university currently lists two program tracks. Track 1 focuses on abdominal-extended and OB/GYN sonography, while Track 2 adds vascular sonography.
How Long Is the Keiser University Sonography Program?
The current program information lists approximately 81 to 91 credit hours, depending on the selected track. Keiser University states that completion may take approximately 24 to 28 months, although transfer credits and individual course progression can affect the actual completion time.
Students also complete supervised clinical experiences. These rotations allow students to apply classroom and laboratory knowledge in healthcare settings while developing practical ultrasound skills.
Can You Transfer Prerequisite Credits?
Students who have already attended another college may be able to transfer qualifying credits to Keiser University.
Transfer eligibility depends on factors such as the institution attended, accreditation, course equivalency, and individual academic records. The university recommends that prospective students work with an admissions advisor to determine which credits may transfer.
If you already completed anatomy, physics, English, or mathematics courses, having your transcripts reviewed before enrollment can help you determine which requirements remain outstanding.
What Happens After Graduation?
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is designed to prepare graduates for entry-level sonography positions in healthcare environments such as hospitals, imaging centers, clinics, and physician offices.
Keiser University states that graduates can qualify to take national certification examinations administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Track 1 students may pursue credentials in areas such as Abdomen and OB/GYN, while Track 2 also includes preparation related to Vascular Technology.
Certification can be an important consideration for people comparing ultrasound career opportunities because employers may have specific credentialing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 3.0 GPA required for Keiser University sonography?
Yes. Keiser University currently lists a cumulative 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale for general education courses as part of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography requirements.
What classes are required before sonography courses?
The listed prerequisite subjects include Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, General Physics I, English I, and Intermediate Algebra. Required general education courses must be completed with a minimum grade of C.
Does Keiser University require a background check?
Yes. A background check and drug screening are listed among the Diagnostic Medical Sonography requirements.
Can I transfer college credits into the sonography program?
Potentially. Keiser University reviews transfer credits based on factors such as accreditation and course equivalency. Students should have their transcripts evaluated by the university before assuming that a particular course will satisfy a prerequisite.
Is the Keiser University sonography program available online?
The current program page lists the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate of Science program as on-campus. Clinical education also requires hands-on participation at affiliated healthcare facilities.
Final Thoughts
Checking the Keiser University sonography prerequisites before applying can help prospective students prepare their academic records and avoid delays. The key requirements currently include the required anatomy, physics, English, and mathematics courses, a minimum C grade in applicable general education courses, a 3.0 general education GPA, background screening, and drug screening.
Because university requirements, campus availability, and clinical policies can change, prospective students should verify their specific requirements with Keiser University before enrolling. The official program page is the best source for current admission information, course requirements, transfer-credit decisions, and program availability.