NEED HELP CHOOSING BETWEEN PROGRAMS!
Hi everyone! I’m a non-traditional student and I was just accepted into two CAAHEP-accredited DMS programs ( I’m so overjoyed, this is my first cycle applying and no I don’t have a 4.0!). I’m really struggling to choose and would love input from working sonographers and current students.
Program A
• Accredited for Abdomen + OB/GYN
• Bachelor’s degree upon completion
• Stronger reputation and clinical sites
• Higher graduation rate
• 15 months
Program B
• Accredited for Abdomen, OB/GYN, Cardiac + Vascular (would sit for all 4 registries)
• Certificate upon completion
• 100% ARDMS pass rate (same as Program A)
• 22 months
Similarities: both start in fall, similar price (although I’m not sure how much money they would be giving me yet if any) , and similar distance from me
About my goals:
• My passion is women’s health (OB/GYN is my why)
• Post grad I want to work hospital 12-hour shifts
• I know cardiac and vascular can be pursued post-grad, but I’m curious how realistic that actually is, especially once you’re working full time
My hesitation: Program B covers more registries upfront which appeals to me for hospital hiring and income potential. But Program A fits my life better (schedule, reputation, degree, time to complete). I’ve also read that CAAHEP graduates can sit for additional registries later through self-study.
My questions for you:
For those who added cardiac or vascular post-grad — how’d you do it and how hard was it really while working?
In a hospital setting, how often do OB/GYN sonographers cross over into cardiac or vascular?
Would I have any issued findings my desired schedule with only 2 registries?
Any other factors I’m not thinking about?
Which sounds like the better option?
TIA!