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CRICOS Code
This program is not available to students wishing to study in Australia on a student visa
Entry requirements
Applicants are required to meet the following criteria:
Complete a letter of support confirming a training position within a General ultrasound department that will be supervised by an accredited medical sonographer who is registered with ASAR (Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry); AND EITHER
A Bachelor Degree or higher in an approved Field of Education (FOE), and completion of the prerequisite courses at a Bachelor level or higher within the last 10 years (or prior completion with evidence of clinical application of prerequisite knowledge); OR
A Graduate Certificate in Medical Sonography Principles and Theory (General); OR
Current registration with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (or overseas equivalent, where accreditation was awarded following completion of a recognised degree)
Applicants are required to provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the following prerequisite courses:
0.125 EFTSL of Human Anatomy, which includes anatomy of the head and neck, thorax, abdomen and pelvis, and the musculoskeletal and vascular systems; AND
0.250 EFTSL of Human Physiology; AND
0.125 EFTSL of Human Pathology or Pathophysiology OR
equivalent courses in a sonography-specific program
Approved Fields of Education
Applicants are required to have completed a program of study (at Bachelor level or higher) in one of the following approved Fields of Education (FOE):
Medical Studies
Nursing
Pharmacy
Radiography
Rehabilitation Therapies (excluding Audiology and Massage Therapy)
Dentistry
Optometry
Human Movement
Paramedical Studies
Health Science
Applicants with a qualification from a FOE not listed above may be considered on a case by case basis.
Note: Applicants are advised that the program requires the completion of 2200 hours of supervised clinical sonography experience. Applicants are responsible for organising and maintaining an ongoing training position to acquire the requisite experience; progression through the program is conditional upon meeting prescribed milestones.
English language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:
English language test
IELTS total [7.0]
IELTS reading [7.0]
IELTS writing [7.0]
IELTS speaking [7.0]
IELTS listening [7.0]
Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:
English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)
Refer to Additional Information Form for pre-requisite requirements. Preliminary assessment of pre-requisites is not available for this program. International students in Australia on a student visa cannot enrol in this program as its delivered online.
Broaden your career opportunities by extending your knowledge, practical skills and understanding of ultrasound imaging health trends.
Join the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers.1
Suitable for health science, medical radiation and other allied health professionals employed in an appropriate practice with access to clinical ultrasound experience.
Learn from award-winning teachers at a university with above world-class research in clinical sciences.2
Get practical experience from 2,200 hours of ultrasound scanning and associated clinical examinations.
Apply for registration with the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR) as an accredited medical sonographer upon completion of the program.
Enjoy flexible study through online, part-time learning.
1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23– Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
In two years of part-time, online study you can extend your knowledge and practical skills in general sonography.
This graduate diploma will help you develop technical skills and a strong understanding of physics, anatomy and pathology for the sonographic examination of body parts such as internal organs, blood vessels, musculoskeletal systems, reproductive organs and pregnancies.
All applicants must have a letter confirming a training position prior to applying.
If you’re already registered with the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR) as an accredited medical sonographer, you might like to consider applying for a master’s program.
What you'll learn
Through a combination of theory and practice you’ll learn advanced technical sonography skills. You’ll also gain further understanding of health science, physics, anatomy and pathology advancements and trends. The courses will develop your knowledge, clinical expertise, critical thinking and analytical skills.
You’ll be required to complete 2,200 hours of ultrasound scanning experience (verified by an ASAR accredited medical sonographer or equivalent).
1. Credit will be given for this course if the student can provide proof of completion of the Diploma of Medical Ultrasonography Part 1, awarded by the Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine, within 5 years prior to enrolment in the program.
2. Students must successfully complete the four level 1 courses prior to enrolling in the remainder of the program.
3. Students must maintain a clinical experience logbook which documents a minimum of 2200 hours of supervised ultrasound experience (verified by an ASAR accredited sonographer) over the duration of the program. Students will be required to submit evidence at prescribed milestones set by the Program Director.
4. At the completion of this course students must submit a Clinical Progress Report.
5. Students must have completed at least 2000 hours of clinical sonography experience and at least 2 Clinical Progress Reports to enrol in this course.
6. Students must provide evidence that they have a supervised external training position for the duration of these courses. For all domestic students and for international students training in Australia, supervision must be provided by a sonographer(s) registered with the Australian Sonographers Accreditation Registry.
7. Participation is required in clinical placements where students are required to physically handle people including lifting and supporting people with disabilities.
8. For this course all students must attend a compulsory OSCE examination on campus in Adelaide.
Notes
1. The program is offered on a part-time basis over a minimum of 2 years, and only by external delivery.
2. Applicants are advised that the program requires the completion of 2200 hours of supervised ultrasound
experience. Applicants are responsible for organising their own training position in an ultrasound department in
order to acquire the scanning experience.
3. Students who cannot maintain their training position throughout their enrolment will be offered to exit with a Graduate Certificate in Medical Sonography Principles and Theory (General). The Graduate Certificate exit award will NOT provide the student with ASAR accreditation.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Why Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (General)
This graduate diploma is the only one of its kind in South Australia, and UniSA is the only university in Australia to offer a full suite of accredited postgraduate sonography programs including cardiac, general, and vascular specialisations.
We have a well-established history of teaching sonography and are recognised both nationally and internationally for our sonography specialisations.
You’ll enjoy the flexibility of online learning with UniSA’s digital learning facilities and dedicated support staff who are with you every step of the way.
Graduates are eligible to register with the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry as an accredited medical sonographer upon completion of the program.
Real-world connections
Learn from world-class researchers and experienced medical sonography professionals via our online discussion forum and virtual classrooms. These virtual classes give you the opportunity to build important industry networks and relationships.
Through completion of 2,200 hours of ultrasound scanning and clinical examinations, you’ll build your networks with practicing clinicians.
Career outcomes
Your career
The field of medical sonography is always evolving with technological advancements, and strong future demand is predicted due to Australia’s national shortage of sonographers.1
Medical sonographers require highly developed technical skills, as well as a strong understanding of health science, physics, anatomy and pathology for examination of body parts such as internal organs, blood vessels, musculoskeletal systems, reproductive organs and pregnancies.
With this diploma you can find work as a medical sonographer in metropolitan, rural and remote locations, across settings including:
hospitals
private practices
tertiary education providers
You may also choose to continue your studies with a Master of Medical Sonography (General).
1National Skills Commission, Skills Priority List 2022
Professional accreditation and recognition
This program enables graduates to apply for full professional accreditation from the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR) under the General Sonography category. Evidence of scanning experience in an Australian or New Zealand clinical setting is required for such accreditation.
How to apply
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your campus
We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.
This degree is delivered at the following campus.
Your program director
I have over two decades of experience as a clinical cardiac sonographer, a strong research background reaching national and international groups, and expertise in advanced echocardiographic techniques. All of this informs my teaching as Program Director of the Medical Sonography suite, where I’m dedicated to ensuring our students get a quality education that prepares them for rewarding careers.
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
Through studying medical sonography at UniSA I developed a range of niche skills that are highly sought after by specialist doctors. For example, I'm one of only two sonographers in Adelaide who perform high level detailed scanning for endometriosis surgical planning.
Alison Deslandes
Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Nuclear Medicine), Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography, Master of Medical Sonography
Royal Adelaide Hospital and Specialist Imaging Partners
Alison Deslandes
Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Nuclear Medicine), Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography, Master of Medical Sonography
Royal Adelaide Hospital and Specialist Imaging Partners
The flexibility to study externally was very appealing – I could continue shift work as a radiographer and obtain practical hours during the day in ultrasound. Study gives you all of the foundations to achieve great things, it’s a big competitive world.
Catrina Panuccio
Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography
Managing Director | Specialist Imaging Partners
Catrina Panuccio
Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography
Managing Director | Specialist Imaging Partners
I was attracted by UniSA’s reputation in the medical imaging profession as being one of the leading educators in ultrasound. The program introduced me to a broad spectrum of examinations that I would be exposed to in the industry and enabled me to develop skills in a supported environment.
Kosta Hellmanns
Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (General)
Specialist Sonographer | Women's and Children's Hospital
Kosta Hellmanns
Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (General)
Specialist Sonographer | Women's and Children's Hospital
Fees This is based on the total number of units for this program where one EFTSL is expressed as 36 units.
*UniSA accepts applications for programs commencing beyond the year advertised and tuition fees for these years will be higher. Please note that your tuition fees will be subject to an annual increase.
