Overview

The Pediatric Echosonographer Apprenticeship Program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is a novel, employment-based training pathway for experienced cardiac sonographers seeking to develop specialized expertise in pediatric and congenital echocardiography.

Designed for sonographers with established adult echocardiography skills, the six-month apprenticeship combines progressive supervised clinical training with structured education, case review, mentorship and competency assessment within the Cardiac Center’s Pediatric Echocardiography Laboratory.

CHOP’s Pediatric Echocardiography Laboratory is one of the largest in the country, performing more than 40,000 studies annually and providing a robust environment for clinical education and professional development.

The program is designed to build a sustainable pipeline of sonographers prepared for long-term careers within CHOP’s growing pediatric cardiac imaging network.

Program Goals 

The apprenticeship is designed to develop the specialized clinical competencies required to transition from adult cardiac sonography into pediatric and congenital echocardiography.

Apprentices will develop progressive proficiency in:

• Pediatric and congenital echocardiographic imaging
• Congenital and acquired heart disease
• Pediatric cardiac anatomy, physiology and hemodynamics
• Echocardiographic measurements and Doppler techniques
• Image optimization and acquisition of complete diagnostic studies
• Developmentally appropriate, patient- and family-centered care

Apprentices receive ongoing competency assessment and feedback, with increasing independence throughout the program.

Based on individual interests and program opportunities, apprentices may also gain exposure to expanded sonographer career pathways, including quality improvement, research, education and other areas of professional development.

Program Structure

Duration: Six months

Program type: Paid, employment-based apprenticeship

Training model: Progressive supervised clinical experience, structured instruction, case review, mentorship and competency-based assessment

The apprentice is a CHOP employee throughout the program and develops increasing independence as established pediatric cardiac sonography competencies are achieved.

Who Should Apply

The apprenticeship is intended for cardiac sonographers with established adult echocardiography skills who are interested in developing expertise in pediatric and congenital echocardiography.

Candidates must have:

• At least six months of clinical experience performing adult echocardiography
• Demonstrated proficiency in adult transthoracic echocardiography
• Foundational knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, hemodynamics and echocardiographic principles
• The ability and commitment to develop new competencies through structured instruction, supervised clinical practice, feedback and independent study
• Prior pediatric or congenital echocardiography experience is preferred but not required.

Credentials

Professional cardiac sonography credentials including RDCS-AE, RCS, RCCS or RDCS-PE are preferred.

Selection Process

The Pediatric Echosonographer Apprenticeship is a selective program with a limited number of positions available.

Qualified applicants will undergo an initial application review, and selected candidates will be invited to participate in the interview process. Selection will consider adult echocardiography proficiency, clinical experience, professional readiness, commitment to learning and alignment with the goals of the apprenticeship.

Meeting minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or selection.

Apprenticeship Timeline

Apprenticeship positions will be offered based on program capacity and workforce needs. Application periods will open in advance of each six-month apprenticeship cycle. Information regarding upcoming application windows and anticipated start dates will be posted as available.

Successful Completion and Career Opportunities

The apprenticeship program is designed to provide participants with the specialized pediatric cardiac sonography training and hands-on experience needed to qualify for permanent career opportunities within CHOP’s Cardiac Center. Upon successful completion, apprentices are expected to meet the established competency requirements for a pediatric Echosonographer and be eligible to apply for permanent positions. Employment opportunities are dependent on organizational needs.

Interested in a Future Apprenticeship Opportunity?

If an apprenticeship position is not currently posted, cardiac sonographers interested in future opportunities are encouraged to express interest in the program.
Individuals who express interest may receive information regarding future apprenticeship opportunities, application periods and upcoming cohorts. Expressing interest is not a formal application and does not guarantee an interview or selection.