Comprehensive Program: Cardiac Ultrasound (Echocardiography) Certificate Diploma

Duration: 3 Months (12 Weeks)
Accreditation: This course is accredited by the American Council of Training and Development (ACTD-US). Participants will earn a recognized certificate upon successful completion.

Course Overview

This intensive 3-month program provides an in-depth exploration of cardiac ultrasound (echocardiography), focusing on transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal (TEE) imaging, anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the heart. Designed for healthcare professionals and sonography students, the program combines theoretical learning, hands-on training, and case-based problem-solving to prepare participants for advanced clinical roles and ARDMS/CCI certification exams.

Requirements

1. A background in healthcare or diagnostic imaging is recommended but not mandatory.
2. Access to a computer or mobile device with a stable internet connection.
3. Commitment of 10–15 hours per week for coursework, clinical practice, and assessments.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will:

1. Master the principles and techniques of transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal (TEE) echocardiography.
2. Gain in-depth knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and hemodynamics.
3. Identify and evaluate common cardiac pathologies, including valvular diseases, cardiomyopathies, and congenital abnormalities.
4. Perform Doppler imaging for assessing blood flow, pressures, and gradients.
5. Apply advanced echocardiographic techniques such as 3D imaging, strain imaging, and stress echocardiography.
6. Prepare thoroughly for ARDMS or CCI certification exams in echocardiography.

Course Features

1. Accredited Certification: Recognized by the American Council of Training and Development (ACTD-US).
2. Hybrid Learning: Flexible delivery through live Zoom sessions or in-campus lectures, supplemented by recorded lectures.
3. Comprehensive Training: Weekly quizzes, hands-on clinical practice, and a final competency assessment.
4. Interactive Learning: Case studies, instructor-led discussions, and collaborative forums.
5. ARDMS Preparation: Includes mock exams, ARDMS-style practice questions, and test-taking strategies.
6. Resource Access: Study materials, recorded sessions, and ultrasound protocol templates.
7. Hands-on Training: Supervised clinical practice to refine echocardiography techniques.

Type of Study

• Format:
  • Weekly hybrid lectures (in-campus or Zoom) with interactive Q&A.
  • Recorded sessions for flexible review.
  • Online forums for collaborative learning and questions.
• Schedule:
  • Weekly 2–3 live lectures (or recorded), clinical practice sessions, and self-paced exercises.
• Commitment:
  • 10–15 hours per week, including lectures, clinical training, and assessments.

Course Instructions

1. Attend or review all live hybrid lectures (in-campus or Zoom).
2. Actively participate in discussions and case-based learning.
3. Complete weekly quizzes and assignments.
4. Attend hands-on scanning sessions or complete virtual simulations.
5. Submit a final competency assessment at the end of the course.

Target Audience

• Sonography students and professionals specializing in cardiac imaging.
• Cardiologists, critical care physicians, and healthcare workers transitioning to echocardiography.
• Professionals preparing for ARDMS or CCI echocardiography certification.

Course Materials

1. Live Hybrid Lectures: Weekly interactive sessions with Q&A opportunities.
2. Recorded Sessions: Full access to lectures for flexible review.
3. Practice Exercises: Structured tasks designed to reinforce imaging techniques.
4. Clinical Training: Hands-on practice or virtual simulation labs.
5. ARDMS Exam Resources:
   • Three comprehensive mock exams tailored to the ARDMS format.
   • Over 200 ARDMS-style practice questions per week.
   • Tips and strategies for answering exam-style questions.

Assessment Materials: Weekly quizzes and a final competency evaluation.