Red Rocks Community College (RRCC) is expanding its educational offerings with the introduction of two new Bachelor of Applied Science programs: Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Echocardiography. This move aims to enhance access to affordable higher education for Colorado students.
The new programs align with a rising nationwide demand for skilled ultrasound professionals. A 2024 study indicated significant growth in both ultrasound exams and the need for sonographers, highlighting a growing gap between demand and supply in the field. In Colorado, the state’s job projections predict that employment for diagnostic medical sonographers will grow by an average of 2.72% each year from 2023 to 2033.
Martha Rivero, program director for Diagnostic Medical Sonography, emphasized the focus on providing quality education. “For us, it’s always been about offering a quality sonography program,” said Rivero. “There is demand, but that demand is for sonography graduates with the skills and professionalism needed in hospitals and healthcare.”
The new Bachelor programs replace RRCC’s Associate of Applied Science degrees in the same fields. Prospective students must hold an associate degree or two years of transferable credits from a four-year university to apply. While many healthcare facilities do not require sonographers to have four-year degrees, obtaining a bachelor’s degree can lead to expanded career opportunities in areas such as teaching, medical sales, and hospital management, as noted by Rivero.
Source: LinkedIn Post
