Medical Imaging Sciences (MIS) Degree

The Bachelor of Science degree Medical Imaging Sciences (MIS) is awarded jointly with the Rutgers School of Health Professions (Rutgers-SHP) and offers two areas of study: Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Cardiovascular Sonography. The programs are located on the Scotch Plains campus of Rutgers-SHP.

Students must complete specified degree requirements at Felician University before they can enter Rutgers-SHP for their professional coursework. Students may attend Felician University on a full-or part-time basis for their pre-professional coursework but the professional coursework usually requires full-time study.

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

The profession of Diagnostic Medical Technology includes general sonography and various subspecialties. The profession requires judgment and the ability to provide appropriate health care services. Diagnostic medical technologies are highly skilled professionals qualified by education to provide patient services using diagnostic techniques under the supervision of a licensed Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy. The technician may provide this service in a variety of medical settings where the physician is responsible for the use and interpretation of appropriate procedures. Technicians assist physicians in gathering data necessary to reach diagnostic decisions.

The Diagnostic Medical Technology Program covers both clinical and didactic instruction in abdominal, obstetrical, gynecological, and neonatal neuro-sonography ultrasound. The course of study includes Applied Anatomy and Physiology, Pathophysiology, Ultrasound Physics, Instrumentation, and Applied Sonography. Clinical training is provided in active Radiology and Perinatal Testing departments equipped with the most advanced ultrasound equipment.

The program is accredited through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) (www.caahep.org). Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be eligible for examination and certification by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (www.ardms.org).

Cardiovascular Sonography

Cardiac sonography (also known as echocardiography) is the use of ultrasound imaging to view the cardiovascular anatomy in a non-invasive and pain-free examination. This safe and convenient method of diagnosis allows the physician to assess the function of the heart dynamically. Cardiac Sonographers are specially trained professionals who are an integral part of the cardiovascular medical management team in today’s healthcare environment. They use sophisticated equipment that acquires two-dimensional images of the heart and Doppler spectral tracings of blood flow to provide an accurate assessment of the patient’s condition. They are one of the first lines of diagnosis of cardiovascular conditions and help the physician guide the patient to the correct path of treatment.

According to the US Department of Labor, employment of cardiac sonographers is expected to grow much faster than average pace through the year 2018. The aging population with its higher incidence of cardiovascular disease will continue to be the driver of demand for the profession. The need for highly trained technologists will also be driven by the advancing technology of cardiac sonography, which is expected to reduce the need for more expensive and risk-prone invasive procedures.

The Cardiac Sonography Program covers both clinical and didactic instruction in cardiac ultrasound and non-invasive cardiovascular diagnostic testing. The course of study includes Applied Anatomy and Physiology, Pathophysiology, Ultrasound Physics, Instrumentation, and Applied Cardiac Sonography. Clinical training is provided in active Cardiology departments equipped with the most advanced ultrasound equipment.

Medical Imaging Sciences Degree Requirements

1. The first six semesters worth of liberal study is taken at the partner institution (minimum of 90 semester hours). General education courses lead toward a concentration in biology with requirements in biology, chemistry, math, and physics. The clinical track is selected in the late sophomore or early junior year through an application to Rutgers-SHP.
2. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.85 and have met or be scheduled to complete all prerequisite requirements before the planned date for enrolling in the 4th year specialization coursework. A minimum grade of B is required for Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Algebra, General Physics, English I and II, and Medical Terminology.
3. These prerequisites must be completed prior to the application. Applications with transcripts that do not contain grades for the above courses will not be considered. 
4. APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 15th.  Students are strongly encouraged to check the Rutgers School of Health Professions website for the latest announcements regarding the application and acceptance processes.
5. Students admitted to the 4th year professional phase are selected by an Admissions Committee from among those applicants meeting these minimum standards.
6. Students who meet the requirements will have an interview scheduled at Rutgers SHP. This is an important step toward acceptance.

Note: The minimal satisfaction of entrance requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the professional portion of the program. The final decision for acceptance rests with the professional school.

Program length:  45 months (based on full-time enrollment)