University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This graduate diploma covers the theory, instrumentation and clinical application of diagnostic cardiac ultrasound. Core topics typically include cardiac anatomy and physiology, principles of ultrasound physics and instrumentation, transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography techniques, Doppler haemodynamics, advanced imaging modalities (such as 3D echo and strain imaging), echo assessment of valvular and myocardial disease, congenital and paediatric cardiac imaging, image optimisation and documentation, and professional issues including quality assurance and patient safety.

The course combines campus-based lectures and tutorials with hands-on skills training and supervised clinical placements in recognised hospitals and imaging centres. Assessment is usually by written examinations, image portfolios, practical assessments and clinical competency sign-off. The programme emphasises diagnostic reasoning, sonographic technique, image interpretation and communication with multidisciplinary cardiac teams.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree in health, such as medical imaging, nursing, physiotherapy, medicine or a related biomedical science, or hold recognised clinical experience in diagnostic imaging or cardiology. Applicants without a directly related degree may be considered if they have substantial clinical experience in cardiac care or diagnostic ultrasound.

Other standard requirements include evidence of clinical placement readiness (such as current immunisations, police check and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification where required), and meeting the University of Adelaide's English language proficiency requirements for postgraduate coursework. Some applicants may need to demonstrate prior learning in anatomy, physiology and basic ultrasound physics.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles as cardiac sonographers (echocardiographers) in public and private hospitals, cardiology clinics, outpatient diagnostic imaging centres and specialist paediatric cardiac units. Career pathways include performing diagnostic echocardiography, undertaking advanced cardiac imaging, working in interventional cardiology support, or pursuing further postgraduate study or research in cardiovascular imaging.

With experience, graduates can progress to senior sonographer or team leader roles, clinical education and training positions, ultrasound service coordination, or roles in remote and rural health services where specialist cardiac imaging skills are in demand.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research-informed health curriculum and strong clinical partnerships with major teaching hospitals and cardiac services in South Australia, providing access to diverse case mix and supervised practical experience. Students benefit from experienced academic staff with clinical backgrounds in cardiac imaging, purpose-equipped ultrasound laboratories and simulation facilities, and structured clinical placement coordination.

The programme is designed to integrate practical competence with evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to meet contemporary clinical expectations in cardiac sonography and to connect with professional networks across the region.