Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography

Simulations are an integral part of this program. You will practice using simulation mannequins, specific to cardiac sonography, and be exposed to abnormal cardiac imaging to be well-prepared for clinical placements.

Two progressive clinical placements of 450 hours each in the final two semesters will help you to become familiar with the role of a Cardiac Sonographer in a clinical setting. In your first placement in Semester 3 you will have the opportunity to observe all aspects of the cardiology department and apply practical skills in a real-world setting. Taking on a greater role in your placement in Semester 4, you can refine your practical, interpersonal, and patient management skills. Placements can occur anywhere within Ontario and therefore may require travel.

Clinical placements are designed to give you the diagnostic cardiac sonography requirements that are consistent with Sonography Canada Clinical Skills Assessment Manual. You will be well-prepared to challenge the regulatory requirements and provincial examinations and practice as a proficient member of the healthcare team.

This accelerated program is delivered over four semesters to fast-track entry into the Cardiac Sonography profession. Theory lessons are delivered online and strengthened with hands-on practice during intensive instructional blocks over several weekends spaced throughout the semester.

Non-Academic Requirements
This program has mandatory Non-Academic Requirements. For more information, please see the Non Academic Requirements page.

Failure to provide any of the required Non-Academic Field Requirements by the specified due date will result in an inability to participate in the mandatory placement components of the program.

Requirements for Clinical Placement
You may be assigned to a clinical placement spot anywhere in the province of Ontario. Additional costs may be incurred during clinical placement including (but not limited to): housing, parking, security deposit for identification badges.

Requirements To Practice In Ontario
To practise as a Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer in Ontario, you must be registered with Sonography Canada, after successfully completing entry-to-practice examinations. You are then eligible to register with the CMRITO to obtain your license to work in Ontario.

For more information, including education, examination, language proficiency, eligibility to work in Canada and suitability to practice requirements, please refer to Sonography Canada.

Additional Program Costs
In addition to tuition fees, other costs include:

• There will be additional cost per year for books, supplies and materials
• Supplies and materials may include purchase required PPE for lab simulation exercises
• Additional costs may also be incurred for Non-Academic requirements

Funding Support
Thanks to the support of the RBC Foundation, eligible mature learners may have access to placement stipends designed to help reduce financial barriers during clinical placements. This investment reflects a shared commitment to supporting student success and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Additional details, including eligibility and application information, will be shared as they become available.

Visit our bursaries and scholarships page for information on ways to access financial support towards your education.

Graduates of the Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer program will earn an Ontario College Graduate Certificate.

Accreditation Status
This program has applied for accreditation through Accreditation Canada EQUAL ™, and the process is currently underway. Accreditation is a quality assurance process that supports programs in preparing graduates for entry to practice. The program holds admitted status for up to three years from the date of acceptance. Students are encouraged to monitor the accreditation status to ensure full accreditation is achieved before graduation.

Graduates of this program will be well prepared for a career in a clinic or hospital as:

• Cardiac sonographer
• Cardiac ultrasound technician
• Cardiac ultrasound technologist
• Diagnostic cardiac sonographer
• Diagnostic, medical sonographer
• Echocardiographer
• Vascular sonographer

• The unique delivery format is ideally suited for working healthcare professionals and those that do not live in close proximity of the campus
• This program takes advantage of Fleming's extensive healthcare simulation technology
• This Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography program includes a strong focus on geriatric care and Indigenous Health
• Two progressive placements offer practical experience, hands-on skill development, and networking opportunities
• Fleming is a leader in applied health education and training. This program is part of a suite of exceptional programs within this study area.

• Adhere to regulatory and accreditation guidelines specific to Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography to ensure compliance with professional standards during patient assessments.
• Perform examination procedures and obtain images to meet diagnostic expectations.
• Provide respectful and individualized patient care to ensure a safe and comfortable environment.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to build safe and positive interprofessional relationships in the workplace as an effective cardiac sonographer.
• Communicate effectively and professionally as a member of a multi-disciplinary healthcare team using relevant terminology, behaviour and language appropriate to the recipient to ensure understanding and informed care.
• Operate ultrasound equipment using sonographic physics principles of safety and quality assurance to ensure patient/workplace safety.
• Adjust cardiac sonography protocols based on detected abnormalities to support accurate diagnostic outcomes and treatment planning.
• Analyze data to correlate and communicate results to the health care team.

Students applying to Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography must meet the following requirements:

• Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma, Degree, or equivalent in a health or health science related field.

Examples of Fleming Health Diploma or Advanced Diploma programs include:

• Biotechnology - Advanced
• Massage Therapy
• Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant
• Paramedic
• Pharmacy Technician
• Practical Nursing
• Respiratory Therapy