Why Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (Vascular)?
Overview
In just two years part-time online study, you can complete the Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (Vascular) at Adelaide University.
This program equips you with the skills to improve and assist with early detection and treatment of vascular conditions. Help enhance patient care and health outcomes.
The graduate diploma blends theory with hands-on experience. Complete over 2,000 supervised vascular cases to ensure you’re confident and ready for clinical practice.
With this qualification, you’ll have diverse career options in hospitals, clinics, or specialised vascular centres. Your work will be essential in assisting physicians to diagnose and treat vascular conditions, making a real difference in the lives of patients diagnosed with disease.
Key features
Gain hands-on experience with supervised vascular ultrasound cases and clinical examinations. - Develop critical thinking, clinical and analytical skills.
- Complete 2,000 supervised vascular cases and associated clinical assessments.
- Learn from top researchers and experienced vascular sonography professionals.
- Fit your studies into your life with part-time and online study
- Earn credit toward the Master of Medical Sonography (Vascular).
What you'll learn
Our Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (Vascular) gives you skills in ultrasound technology with a strong focus on the cardiovascular system. Over two years of part-time study, this program covers both theoretical and practical elements.
The first year includes foundational courses like ultrasound physics and instrumentation. You’ll gain knowledge of how ultrasound equipment works. Explore the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels and learn about common heart diseases.
Cardiovascular anatomy, embryology, physiology, and pathology will give you a comprehensive understanding of both normal and abnormal vascular function. Empowered with a range of skills, you can make a meaningful impact in the world of vascular healthcare. Additionally, you’ll focus on the key ethical and professional standards in this field.
In the second year your learning will advance through specialised subjects. Refine your skills in extending the vascular sonography assessment in pathological vascular conditions. Courses about abdominal sonography will broaden your clinical knowledge.
Creating a cardiovascular sonography portfolio gives you hands-on experience through 2,000 supervised vascular ultrasound cases, documented in a clinical logbook.
Throughout the program, you’ll complete a series of clinical progress reports to demonstrate your growing proficiency.
As a graduate you’ll be well-equipped to contribute to the early detection of vascular conditions, making a real difference in patient care.
Degree Structure: Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (Vascular)
Program code: GDMSV
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 12 units for all Core Courses, and
- 36 units for Work integrated learning
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 12 units for all Core Courses, and
- 36 units for Work integrated learning
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Professional Issues for Sonographers
|
Course code
RADI5006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation
|
Course code
RADI5007
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. Students must successfully complete the four year 1 courses prior to enrolling in the remainder of the program.
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Abdominal Sonography
|
Course code
RADI5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Vascular Sonography
|
Course code
RADI5005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cardiovascular Sonography Portfolio
|
Course code
RADI5011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cardiovascular Anatomy and Embryology
|
Course code
RADI5026
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathology
|
Course code
RADI5029
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Vascular Sonography
|
Course code
RADI6025
|
Units
6
|
Notes
-
Work integrated learning - 1. Abdominal Sonography - RADI5004, Cardiovascular Sonography Portfolio - RADI5011, Vascular Sonography - RADI5005, Advanced Vascular Sonography - RADI6025: 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 (ASAR). Participation is required in clinical placements where students are required to physically handle people including lifting and supporting people with disabilities. At the completion of these courses, students must submit a Clinical Progress Report (except RADI5011)
2. Students must have completed at least 1800 clinical cardiac ultrasound examinations and at least 2 Clinical Progress Reports to enrol in Cardiovascular Sonography Portfolio - RADI5011. For this course all students must attend a compulsory OSCE examination on campus in Adelaide.
Career outcomes
As a newly qualified Vascular Sonographer, you are poised to embark on a fulfilling career that plays a crucial role in patient care and the healthcare system.
You might find yourself in a major hospital, collaborating with vascular surgeons to provide essential diagnostic insights that inform life-saving treatments. Or you could work in a specialised vascular clinic, performing detailed scans and being involved in patients' vascular health. Perhaps you’ll join mobile diagnostic units, traveling to remote or rural areas to deliver critical vascular imaging services to local communities.
Your career options are extensive, with opportunities to work in:
- Outpatient imaging centres.
- Research institutions.
- Educational or training organisations.
- Government health agencies.
Industry trends
With a global shortage of skilled sonographers, especially in vascular specialties, your qualifications will be highly sought after.
In Australia, it is estimated that there will be a shortfall of at least 3,000 sonographers by 2026 (Australasian Sonographers Association, 2024) due to an ageing workforce. This demand ensures that your career will be both fulfilling and impactful, allowing you to make a significant difference in the lives of patients and communities. Embrace the exciting journey ahead as you step into this essential role within the healthcare landscape.
Accreditation
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR). Graduates are eligible to apply to ASAR to become a registered Medical Sonographer under the category of Vascular Sonographer.
Ready to apply?
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your program team
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
