Suseong University radiology students pass US ultrasound physics exam

The radiology department at Suseong University in Daegu has produced a string of students who passed the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation exam, a core test administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

According to the university, second-year student Jeon Jae-hyeok and third-year student Kim Seong-eun recently passed the SPI exam after preparing through an ultrasound lecture series and education program run by the department.

The SPI exam tests specialized knowledge of ultrasound physics, equipment operation and image formation principles, and serves as a key step in obtaining international ultrasound credentials through ARDMS.

Passing the SPI exam, along with specialized clinical examinations in areas such as abdominal, cardiac and vascular sonography, can lead to full ARDMS certification in those fields.

The results signal that the department's sustained ultrasound-focused education is translating into tangible benefits — not only in credential attainment but also in graduates' competitiveness in the job market.

In 2024, three students then enrolled in the program also passed the SPI exam during the academic year and went on after graduation to secure positions at global ultrasound companies including Philips and GE, as well as at university hospitals.

Their experience illustrates how ultrasound theory, practical skills and international exam preparation acquired during their studies can lead directly to employment in the field.

Building on these results, the department continues to offer ultrasound theory and hands-on training alongside SPI exam preparation, with the aim of equipping students with internationally competitive ultrasound expertise beyond domestic licensing requirements.

"It is especially meaningful that this year's students achieved strong results, following the 2024 SPI passers who went on to jobs at global ultrasound medical device companies and university hospitals after graduation," said Cheon Hye-ri, a professor in the radiology department.