MOHAVE COUNTY – The Mohave College Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program is getting ready to accept a new class of students, who will play a vital role in the future of healthcare throughout the region.
The program, is one of the college’s newest additions to its expanding portfolio of healthcare education offerings. Designed to prepare students for in-demand careers in medical imaging, the program offers two pathways, Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Cardiac Sonography. Students benefit from small class sizes, cutting-edge technology, hands-on instruction and strong clinical partnerships across Mohave County.
Diagnostic Medical Sonography is a vital healthcare profession that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal organs and structures. Sonographers play a key role in diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as pregnancy, cardiac disease, abdominal disorders and more. The field requires a strong understanding of anatomy, pathology, and imaging physics, as well as compassionate patient care.
As the program continues to grow, Mohave is committed to ensuring that students receive high-quality, career-ready preparation. A recent $24,000 grant from the BHHS Legacy Foundation has supported this effort by funding the purchase of four high-fidelity ultrasound training phantoms – advanced lifelike models that replicate human tissue and anatomy.
“This investment will have a lasting impact on our students for years to come,” said Jessica Hanley, Director of Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs. “The phantoms help our learners build confidence before stepping into clinical rotations, especially when practicing sensitive or complex procedures. We are truly grateful for the Legacy Foundation’s support in strengthening our program.”
The new phantoms mark an exciting advancement for student learning. These models allow learners to practice exams that are otherwise difficult to perform with live volunteers, including obstetric (20-week pregnancy), breast, scrotal and transvaginal imaging. Each phantom mimics the acoustic properties of real human tissue, enabling students to refine scanning techniques, image optimization, and diagnostic interpretation in a safe, respectful, and repeatable environment.
The program accommodates 18 students, 12 in the general sonography pathway and 6 in the cardiac sonography pathway. These intentionally small cohorts ensure individualized instruction, hands-on practice and close mentorship from expert faculty members.
Students receive training that aligns with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Program and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography standards. The program also prepares them for credentialing through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography and the Cardiovascular Credentialing International, ensuring they enter the workforce with the skills and professional readiness employers expect.
“This is an exciting time for Mohave College and for our community,” said Hanley. “Our new sonography program is helping develop the next generation of healthcare professionals who will serve the needs of our region. With advanced lab equipment, strong community partnerships, and dedicated faculty, we are proud to offer a program that is raising the bar for medical imaging education in Mohave County.”
Anyone interested in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Cardiac Sonography programs and is not yet a student at Mohave College should take the first step and create a student account and fill out the application at www.FutureBighorn.com. Student support teams are available to assist.
Then, an application for the Sonography program must be completed. Admission to the program is based on meeting established prerequisites and criteria, which are outlined in detail on the program website at Mohave.edu/Diagnostic-Medical-Sonography.
The program application period opens January 3 and closes May 31 for an August (Fall semester) program start. Early application submission is strongly encouraged due to the competitive nature of the selection process. Students must complete all prerequisite coursework and application requirements prior to the close of the application window.
About Mohave College
Since 1971, Mohave College has been transforming lives by helping students earn degrees and certificates that lead to better careers and brighter futures. Most alumni stay right here in Mohave County, strengthening the local workforce, fueling economic growth, and giving back to the communities they call home. The College delivers an estimated $199 million annual economic impact to the region and supports over 3,000 jobs in industries ranging from healthcare to the arts. Alumni contribute $158 million each year in additional income to local communities, and 96% of graduates say Mohave prepared them well for their careers or further education. Whether you’re starting your journey or advancing your skills, Mohave College is here to help you own your future. Learn more at Mohave.edu/ImprovingLives.
Tobi Rose practices on another student, Julia Karlquist, how to scan an abdomen.
Diagnostic Sonography students are the first cohort to go through this new program at the College. From left to right: Back row: TJ Tang, Julia Karlquist and Jamie Mazon. Front row: Jemima Kamba, Jessica Hanley and Tobi Rose.