Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography

The Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography program equips healthcare professionals with the expertise to perform echocardiography—an advanced cardiac imaging technique using ultrasound waves. By creating detailed images of the heart, graduates support physicians in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing various heart conditions, while enhancing the overall cardiovascular health of patients.

Fleming's Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography program is delivered in an innovative, flexible format that is unique in Ontario and tailored to meet the needs of working professionals. Theoretical instruction is offered online, complemented by hands-on practical training during focused, intensive instructional weekends scheduled throughout the semester.

As an accredited and regulated profession, Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography requires specialized training that meets rigorous standards. Fleming's program is fully aligned with Sonography Canada's regulatory and accreditation requirements, featuring a structured work-integrated learning experience during the final two semesters.

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.

• 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.

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.

These 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 program is designed for graduates of healthcare programs or professionals working in the healthcare sector looking to specialize in sonography.

With its combination of online lessons throughout the semester and intensive in-person practice in a cardiology clinic over several weekends, this program is ideally suited to those who are currently working or cannot easily uproot to a new location.

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

This program is currently in the process of submitting an application for accreditation through Accreditation Canada and the EQual program. This serves as an important demonstration of our commitment to providing quality education in alignment with accreditation and regulatory requirements. Submission of the application is not an accreditation status, nor does it means any eventual accreditation. If you require additional information regarding our accreditation status and the endeavours and/or potential implications this may have on your future abilities to practice as a healthcare professional, we encourage you to reach out to kevin.griffin@flemingcollege.ca, Dean, School of Health and Community Services.

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.

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.

• 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

• 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.