Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The Graduate Diploma of Echocardiography develops specialised knowledge and applied skills in transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography, Doppler techniques, ultrasound physics, image optimisation and quantitative assessment of cardiac function. Study combines advanced coursework in cardiac anatomy and physiology, haemodynamics, valvular heart disease, congenital heart disease, and the interpretation and reporting of echocardiographic findings.

• Core topics: advanced cardiac anatomy and physiology, echocardiographic imaging planes, Doppler and colour flow mapping, measurements of systolic and diastolic function, and echo safety and quality assurance.
• Advanced modalities: focused training in transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE/TEE), stress echocardiography, three‑dimensional imaging and strain imaging where available.
• Clinical practice: supervised clinical placements and skills laboratories that emphasise hands‑on scanning, case-based learning, patient communication and workplace professionalism.
• Professional practice and research: modules in evidence‑based practice, clinical governance, ethics and a research or clinical audit project to develop critical appraisal and problem‑solving skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant health, allied health or science discipline (for example Bachelor of Echocardiography and Cardiac Physiology, Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science, Bachelor of Nursing, or equivalent), or to be an experienced practising cardiac technologist/sonographer with recognised credentials.

• Evidence of prior academic studies in health or science or substantial clinical experience in cardiac diagnostics.
• Clinical support or employer endorsement may be required where local placements are part of the course delivery.
• English language proficiency demonstrated by the university’s accepted tests if your prior study was not in English.
• Some applicants may be assessed for suitability via curriculum vitae, references and an interview; recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfer are available for eligible prior study or experience.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for advanced clinical roles in echocardiography and cardiac imaging. Typical roles include:

• Echocardiographer / cardiac sonographer in public and private hospitals
• Cardiac physiologist or cardiac scientist roles within multidisciplinary cardiology departments
• Positions in outpatient cardiology clinics, specialist cardiac imaging centres and mobile imaging services
• Clinical educator, sonography trainer or supervisor roles and opportunities in quality improvement and clinical governance
• Pathways into further postgraduate study or research careers in cardiovascular imaging and diagnostics

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers a practice‑focused approach with a mix of clinically oriented coursework, skills laboratory sessions and workplace placements, reflecting the hands‑on nature of echocardiography. CQU has established links with regional and metropolitan hospitals and imaging centres which support clinical training and employment pathways for graduates.

The programme is delivered by academic staff with clinical backgrounds in cardiac imaging, and students benefit from contemporary simulation facilities and blended delivery options that suit employed professionals. The course is designed to align with professional standards for diagnostic cardiac ultrasound and to equip graduates with the practical competencies and professional behaviours expected in modern cardiology services.