CQUniversity's new Medical Sonography course is the first accredited program of its kind in Australia. It lets applicants study sonography without having first taken another degree.

In medical sonography, allied health professionals use ultrasound - high frequency sound waves - to produce high quality, diagnostic images of a patient's internal structures.

Based at CQUniversity's Mackay Campus, the new Medical Sonography course is a three-year undergraduate degree combined with a one-year postgraduate diploma in Medical Sonography. It includes a large number of clinical placements linked to the theory taught during each year of the program.

CQUniversity has secured support from a range of medical imaging providers throughout regional Queensland who will provide clinical experiences for students. It has invested millions to ensure students work on the most up to date and sophisticated sonography equipment.

Senior lecturer in medical sonography at CQUniversity, Anita Bowman says, real-life simulation activities involve field trips to clinics and veterinary practices as well as participation in role-play activities with actors to learn patient communication skills.

"The skill of the sonographer is of vital importance as it has a profound effect on the quality of the patient's examination.

"Sonographers interpret the images they produce and make decisions to facilitate optimum healthcare for patients. Sonographers work closely with their patients and other medical professionals to create a supportive and caring environment in a variety of situations. Ultrasound involves leading-edge computer technology such as 3D and 4D imaging of the unborn baby."

Sonographers can move into speciality areas of ultrasound including musculoskeletal, paediatric, vascular, breast, obstetrics and gynaecology. A qualification in medical sonography is globally recognised and Australian/NZ sonographers are in great demand internationally.

Details via www.cqu.edu.au/medicalsonography