COURSE CURRICULUM

Northwest Missouri State University offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Echocardiography, designed to prepare students for careers in cardiac imaging using ultrasound technology. The program combines foundational science courses with specialized medical imaging training, ensuring students develop the knowledge and technical skills necessary to excel in healthcare settings. In the first year, students complete core courses such as Precalculus Algebra, General Biology with Lab, University Seminar, Composition I, and General Chemistry with Lab, providing a strong scientific and analytical foundation. The second semester introduces Anatomy for Allied Health, Composition II, Biomedical Ethics, American Government, and Fine Arts, building critical thinking, communication, and ethical reasoning skills relevant to clinical practice.Students also take Medical Terminology early in the program, ideally during the summer term, to prepare for clinical coursework and facilitate understanding of specialized echocardiographic language. The program continues with Physiology for Allied Health, U.S. History, Fundamentals of Oral Communication, General Psychology, and introductory computing courses, ensuring students are well-rounded in both scientific knowledge and professional competencies. Additional courses such as General Physics with Lab, Introduction to Literature, General Sociology, and Humanities provide a strong liberal arts foundation, critical for effective patient interaction and professional development.After completing the initial coursework at Northwest, students transition to affiliated clinical programs at St. Luke’s College of Radiologic Technology, Research Medical Center, or Mercy College of Health Science. These institutions provide hands-on training in echocardiography and radiologic technology, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. Upon completing the 62-hour clinical program, students are eligible to sit for professional certification in radiologic technology and earn their Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences, combining academic rigor with clinical expertise.The program emphasizes scientific understanding, technical proficiency, ethical awareness, and patient-centered care, equipping graduates to pursue careers in cardiac imaging, echocardiography, or further advanced study in healthcare fields.