COTC offers accelerated bachelor's degree program
NEWARK — Central Ohio Technical College is launching its first bachelor’s degree program to meet workforce demand in Central Ohio.
The bachelor of applied science in diagnostic medical sonography will prepare students for careers as registered sonographers. It is an accelerated, three-year program and the first of its kind in Ohio. Students are expected to attend full time for eight consecutive semesters.
Graduates will 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.
The demand for diagnostic medical sonographers in Ohio continues to increase, with employment expected to grow 15% over the next few years, according to Ohio Labor Market Information.
The new degree replaces the college’s associate of applied science in DMS. Suggestions received from clinical partners, advisory committee members, employers and graduates were the building blocks for the revision, said DMS Program Director and Associate Professor Melinda Brillhart.
“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.”
Sonography courses are offered during the day at the Newark campus only, whereas general education courses are available day or evening and at the colleges extended campuses or online. Branches are located in Pataskala, Mount Vernon and Coshocton.
This is a selective, competitive program. Applicants must first apply to COTC and then complete the DMS program application by Aug. 15.
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.
The cost per credit hour remains the same for the bachelor’s degree as other COTC programs. COTC also has more than $1 million in scholarship available annually.
A virtual information meeting will be held at 9 a.m. March 9. Register visit go.cotc.edu/dms or contact COTC admissions at 740-366-9222 or cotcadmissions@mail.cotc.edu.
This article originally appeared on Coshocton Tribune: COTC offers first bachelor's degree
