Moraine Park Technical College is proud to announce that its diagnostic medical sonography (DMS) program has been awarded accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This prestigious accreditation underscores Moraine Park’s commitment to providing high-quality education and training that meets the national quality assurance standards established by CAAHEP.
Moraine Park’s DMS program, which began in fall 2024, introduces students to a wide variety of specialties, including abdominal, breast, OB-GYN, vascular and musculoskeletal. Students in this program learn alongside other health science students in our state-of-the-art simulation center and the Ultrasound Scan Lab, where they learn to identify abnormalities through volunteer scans. This serves as the program’s first accreditation award since its inception.
“Moraine Park’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is a point of great pride for the college, and we are excited about the future impact our graduates will have within local healthcare systems,” Bonnie Baerwald, Moraine Park president, said. “Earning this accreditation affirms our commitment to excellence, continuous improvement and high-quality student support—while reinforcing the important role technical colleges play in preparing a skilled workforce for the communities we serve.”
CAAHEP accreditation offers significant advantages for students, graduates, and employers alike. For students, it ensures a high-quality educational experience that equips them with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies essential for success in their chosen health profession. Graduates of CAAHEP-accredited programs are highly sought after by employers, opening doors to enhanced job opportunities and career
growth. Additionally, many professional certification bodies require graduation from a CAAHEP-accredited program for eligibility to sit for certification exams—an essential step toward licensure and professional practice. Employers can trust that graduates from CAAHEP-accredited programs are well-prepared to meet the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare field. These graduates bring a strong foundation of knowledge and practical experience, enabling them to deliver high-quality care and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Dr. Barry S. Eckert, President of CAAHEP, emphasizes the importance of accreditation: “Choosing a CAAHEP-accredited program is crucial for students seeking a career in allied health. It ensures that they receive an education that is both comprehensive and relevant to current industry needs, ultimately benefiting their future employers and people receiving care.”
Moraine Park’s DMS program and the accreditation process are led by Sarah Chojnacki, associate dean of health sciences, Chris Schatz, dean of health and human services and Ivy Williams, DMS program director and instructor.
The College’s DMS program has quickly become one of the most sought-after health programs in the district and currently has a waitlist. Interested students should apply early and complete the pre-core courses, and if possible, general education requirements. Additionally, healthcare experience, such as CNA, phlebotomy and MA, which includes patient communication, are assets when entering the program, but are not required for admission. Moraine Park’s recruitment team and academic advisors are well equipped to guide students through the application process, helping them to be well equipped to begin the DMS program.
For more information on Moraine Park’s health science programs, visit morainepark.edu/health-sciences.
