SCC launches Sonography Program to meet growing healthcare demand

Published on Jan 21, 2026

Somerset Community College (SCC) is excited to announce the launch of its newest program of study: Diagnostic Medical Sonography, offering an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in General Sonography. This program opens doors to one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers in the nation. 

Diagnostic Medical Sonography professionals use advanced imaging technology to visualize internal body structures, aiding physicians in accurate diagnosis and patient care. SCC’s program provides comprehensive training in abdominal, small parts, and OB/GYN sonography, along with hands-on clinical experience and coursework in anatomy, ultrasound instrumentation, and imaging techniques. 

“This program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled sonographers in our region and beyond,” said Randall Hammock, Program Director. “Students will graduate with the knowledge and clinical experience with local health facilities needed to make an immediate impact in Southeastern Kentucky’s healthcare workforce and the needs of our partners.” 

The Director of Women's Health Services at Cumberland Family Medical Center, Jessica Gaffney, directly sees the immediate need for more sonographers in the region.

"Our rural healthcare systems depend on skilled sonographers, and the need has never been greater," Gaffney said. "Somerset Community College’s Sonography program brings hope, opportunity, and workforce development directly to our area. We are incredibly thankful for the addition of OBGYN sonography training and the positive impact this program will have on patients and providers alike."

The Associate of Applied Science in General Sonography is a 66–77 credit hour program offered at the SCC Russell Center and SCC Laurel Campus. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for diagnostic medical sonographers is expected to grow 13% from 2024 to 2034, with about 5,800 job openings each year nationwide.

KY State Representative for the 83rd District, Josh Branscum, is looking ahead at how this new program will shape Kentucky's future. 

“Programs like Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Somerset Community College are exactly the kind of strategic investments South Central and Southeastern Kentucky needs. By training students for high-demand, well-paying healthcare careers right here at home, SCC is strengthening our local workforce, supporting regional hospitals, and keeping talent and economic opportunity in our communities, " Branscum stated. "This program not only improves access to quality healthcare, but it also drives long-term economic growth for our region.”

Applications are due by March 15 for fall enrollment. Requirements include CPR certification, completion of a 75-hour nursing assistant course (or equivalent), official transcripts, and ACT scores. Preference is given to applicants with an ACT composite score of 21 or higher and a GPA of 2.5 or above. 

Additionally, those interested in applying for Fall must attend one of the pre-admission conferences on February 3 or March 3.

Nathan Bennett, Senior Director of Imaging at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, highlights the importance of adding more professionals to this field. 

“The addition of a local sonography program at SCC is a significant investment in the region’s healthcare workforce,” Bennett said. “Programs like this help ensure patients have access to high-quality care and timely diagnostic imaging while also creating strong, substantiable career paths for students who want to serve our communities.” 

For more information or to apply, visit the Diagnostic Medical Sonography webpage or contact Randall Hammock at (606) 451-6774 or randall.hammock@kctcs.edu.