The Cardiovascular Sonography Diploma program meets the Cardiac Credentialing International ("CCI"), and the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography ("ARDMS") requirements for graduates pursuing CCI and ARDMS certification. The entire program is designed to thoroughly prepare the student, through quality lecture, laboratory, and clinical externship instruction in the theoretical knowledge, skills, and responsibilities required to work in the allied medical field as an entry level Cardiac Sonographer. The successful program graduate will be able to perform appropriate echocardiography scanning examinations and procedures, and record anatomic, pathologic, and/or physiologic data for interpretation by a physician. The graduate will also be able to obtain, review, and integrate pertinent patient history and supporting clinical data to facilitate optimum diagnostic results. In addition, the graduate will be prepared to exercise discretion and judgment in the performance of sonographic diagnostic services, provide appropriate and compassionate patient care for patients undergoing imaging examinations, demonstrate excellent communication skills with patients and other health care professionals, and act in an ethical and professional manner.