COTC offers first bachelor’s degree

Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) is launching its first bachelor’s degree program to meet workforce demand in the central Ohio region. The Bachelor of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (BAS in DMS) prepares students for careers as registered sonographers. This is a selective, competitive program. Applicants must first apply to COTC and then complete the DMS program application by Aug. 15.

The BAS in DMS replaces the college’s Associate of Applied Science in DMS, building upon a history of excellence in credentialing pass rates, employment rates and satisfaction rates. “Suggestions we received from our clinical partners, advisory committee members, employers and graduates were the building blocks for this revision,” said DMS Program Director and Associate Professor Melinda Brillhart, EdD, RDMS (AB, OB, BR), RVT, RDCS (AE, FE).

“The curriculum has nearly doubled in 10 years, and the clinical requirements and competencies continue to grow each year,” she said. “It is necessary to advance our profession by providing an avenue for career advancement and promotion.”

The BAS in DMS is an accelerated, three-year program — the first of its kind in Ohio. Students are expected to attend full time for eight consecutive semesters. Sonography courses are offered in the daytime at the Newark campus only, whereas general education courses are available day or evening and at COTC’s extended campuses or online. In the student’s second and third year, they will complete five clinical rotations. As students advance through the curriculum, they will be able to sit for their sonographer credentialing exams.

Students will earn the BAS in DMS at COTC’s already low tuition rate. The cost per credit hour remains the same for the bachelor’s degree, making this an exceptional value. COTC also has more than $1 million in scholarship available annually to keep education costs as low as possible.

DMS is a specialized area of healthcare in which trained professionals, called diagnostic medical sonographers, use ultrasound technology to generate images used for assessing and diagnosing various medical conditions. Though most associated with pregnancy, diagnostic medical sonographers evaluate body organs, the circulatory system and tissues to detect inflammation, tumors and other medical conditions. Diagnostic medical sonographers work in a variety of settings such as private offices, hospitals, medical centers and clinics. The demand for diagnostic medical sonographers in Ohio continues to increase, with employment expected to grow 15% according to Ohio Labor Market Information.

COTC will hold a virtual information meetings for anyone interested in enrolling in the DMS program. Participants will learn more about the application process and requirements, available majors and career opportunities. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 9 at 9 a.m.

Register at go.cotc.edu/dms or contact COTC admissions at 740-366-9222 or cotcadmissions@mail.cotc.edu.

Category: Education