Diagnostic Medical Sonographers use high frequency sound waves to produce images and data that assist health care professionals diagnose various disease and disease processes. Sonographers are taught to work independently and to operate highly technical ultrasound equipment to acquire sonographic images. Physicians depend on the sonographer's assistance with interpretation of the images to evaluate many body parts and structures, especially of the abdomen and pelvis. Students enter the professional sequence of the program in the fall semester and spend the first three semesters on the Big Rapids campus. Studies during this period include general education and technical courses. Laboratory periods provide an opportunity to apply the theory and principles learned in the lecture sessions. During the final three semesters students work with patients in an off-campus clinical center. These sites are located throughout the state in hospitals affiliated with the University to provide clinical experience and continued academic instruction.