Academic Options

Bellevue College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program that provides educational and clinical experience as preparation for employment and national certification as a diagnostic medical sonographer.  Our program is a selective admissions program which includes specific procedures and requirements that differ from other programs. These must be followed closely in order to be considered for the program.

Diagnostic medical sonographers and echocardiographers are highly skilled individuals qualified by academic and clinical experience to provide diagnostic imaging services using ultrasound and related diagnostic techniques.

Step 1 Graphic

Step 1: Associates Degree

Students hoping to become a sonographer must first complete an associate degree program in sonography. Bellevue College’s Diagnostic Ultrasound program is a two year, full-time program leading to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.  Upon completion of the associate degree, graduates may choose to seek employment or they can opt to pursue one of the other related training options offered by Bellevue College.  Learn more

Step 2 Graphic

Step 2: National Certification Exam

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to apply to take the national certification exams through the ARDMS and/or ARRT in Sonography. The Bellevue College Diagnostic Ultrasound program is one of four training programs located in Washington state. The adult cardiac ultrasound concentration is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs..

Step 3 graphic

Step 3: Advanced Certifications

Bellevue College offers an advanced certificate in Breast Ultrasound for current registered Diagnostic Ultrasound professionals. This advanced certificate prepares sonography professionals to sit for the boards in that modality.  Learn more

Step 4 Graphic

Step 4: Bachelor’s Degree Completion

Bellevue College offers several Bachelor of Applied Science degree options for current registered sonography professionals. These degree completion options are designed to prepare professionals for advanced modality exams as well as management positions seeking imaging professionals with advanced degrees. These degree completion is called a 2+2 model meaning you come in with a 2 year degree (from any regionally accredited institution) and complete your last 2 years at Bellevue College to earn your 4 year Bachelor’s degree!  Learn more

Last Updated June 16, 2023