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Why I Want to Be a Surgical Tech: a Journey of Purpose

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Published: Sep 7, 2023

Words: 532 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

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A passion for healthcare, making a meaningful impact, fascination with surgical procedures.

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Surgical Technology

Surgical technologists are an integral part of the surgical team, assisting surgeons, anesthesiologists, and registered nurses in providing care to patients in the operating room. The surgical technologist works under medical supervision to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical procedures. This individual ensures that the operating room or environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.

The Cisco College Surgical Technology Program is a 4 semester associate of applied science degree program beginning in the long summer semester each year. The program includes hours of clinical observation and experience in the operating room, as well as lecture and laboratory classes. After successful completion of the required curriculum, students earn a degree. Students interested in the program should be in good physical and mental condition, be able to perform under stress, and possess manual dexterity.

Please see pages 118-119 of the Cisco College Course Catalog for course information.

Application Procedure

The Surgical Technology Program is a limited access program with one start per year in August. To be considered for admission to the Surgical Technology program, interested persons should:

• Apply to Cisco College
• Bacterial Meningitis
• Tetanus-Diphtheria (within 7 years)
• Hepatitis B (2 of the 3 doses must be administered prior to the program start. The 3rd dose must be administered prior to clinical start in the Fall semester)
• Tuberculin skin test
• Many clinical sites utilized throughout the various Health Sciences Programs at Cisco College require a background check and/or drug screen prior to participation in the clinical portion of the program.
• Applications are due by May 1, 2023.

RESOURCES & REQUIREMENTS

• Surgical Technology Application
• Application Letter & Instructions

Selection Criteria

• GPA no less than 2.0
• Biographical essay discussing why you want to become a Surgical Technologist
• Any additional academic, occupation/health sciences, or science related courses taken and passed with a "C" or better are viewed favorably
• Formal interview with a panel, including but not limited to the Program Director, Division Chair, and other health science professionals.

The Surgical Technology Program is a strenuous program requiring your full time commitment and attention. It is a limited access program and accepts no more than 10 students; as a result, the selection process is taken very seriously.

Prerequisites

About this program.

• Course Catalog
• Tuition & Fees

What Can This Program Do For You

• Surgical Technologist
• Surgeon's Assistant

Links to the following websites are provided for your convenience and information and do not constitute official endorsement by Cisco College.

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook’ can help you find career information on duties, education and training, pay, and outlook for hundreds of occupations.
• Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Career One Stop is a resource for career exploration, training, skill sets, wages & jobs.

The Surgical Technology program is a 12 month Health Sciences program beginning in the Fall semester of each year. Below is the suggested pathway for full-time prospective students looking to receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Surgical Technology.

*Developmental Courses: Some students may need preparatory courses in English, Reading, or Math. Courses numbered below 1000 will not apply toward a certificate or degree.

Surgical Technology Associate of Applied Science

Students who successfully complete the Surgical Technology Program at Cisco College are eligible to sit for the certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

• Surgical Technology Student Handbook
• Clinical Case Requirements

Outcomes Assessment Exam

*cst exam pass rate = 70%.

Everyone here is really helpful. They lead you to where you need to be. The advisors are really great, and the teachers are always there to help you. They’ll stay after with you and get you to where you need to be. – Jordan Supernaw

Meet the Faculty

Jennifer Mazey

Surgical Technology Professor Abilene Campus (325) 794-4436 [email protected]

Curriculum Vitae

Top 10 Surgical Technologist Programs

What is a surgical tech.

• Surgical Tech Fast Facts
• Ranking Methodology
• Top 10 Programs
• Surgical Tech FAQs

Related Articles

Certified surgical technologists (CSTs) are an invaluable part of the operating team at healthcare facilities. You may have heard them called surgical techs, surgical assistants, scrub techs, or operating room techs. Before you become a certified surgical tech, you must attend an accredited surgical tech program. And with hundreds of programs to choose from, this task can be intimidating.

So we've compiled the country's top ten best surgical tech programs for your consideration. Keep reading to learn more about these programs and how to become a surgical technologist .

Certified surgical technologists work alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical nurses . But their work extends from pre-surgery to intra and post-surgical tasks. A surgical tech's responsibilities include the following:

• Preparing equipment
• Sterilizing instruments
• Providing an extra set of hands in surgery
• Dressing wounds post-procedure
• Maintaining a sterile environment throughout operations
• Managing tools and instrument inventory
• Ensuring no surgical equipment is left behind

Surgical techs earn associate degrees and complete formal training through accredited surgical technology programs. These programs generally take one and a half years to complete and include about 500 hours of clinical internship.

Graduates can take the Certified Surgical Technologist or Tech in Surgery exam upon completion. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting and the National Center for Competency Testing offer these tests.

Program Ranking Methodology 

This list includes surgical technologist schools offering hybrid and entirely in-person classes. As we compiled and ranked the best surgical tech programs, we considered many decisive factors:

• Program cost
• Student-faculty ratio
• Flexibility
• Graduation rate
• Post-graduation job placement aid

Top 10 Certified Surgical Tech Programs

1. indiana university health – indianapolis, indiana .

Graduates are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist exam (CST-ERC). The program had a 100 percent pass rate for the August 2021 to July 2022 session. Unfortunately, this CST school is not eligible for FAFSA funding.

Indiana Health University offers CST courses on a full-time basis, holding classes between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. The surgical technologist program takes 11 months to complete over three semesters. The first semester alone covers surgical instrumentation, techniques and procedures, and clinical experience.

• Tuition: $4,200 
• Program length: 11 months 
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
• Application deadline: April 21st 
• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• U.S. citizenship or permanent resident cardholder
• Minimum 18 years of age
• Pass a background check and drug screen
• Program contact: Terry Myers, RN, Program Director 
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone number: (317) 962-1864 
• Online options available? No

2. University of Arkansas – Pulaski Tech – North Little Rock, Arkansas 

The University of Arkansas offers this program full-time, beginning each spring semester. It takes two semesters, consisting of 30 credits of prerequisite coursework and 30 credits in the surgical tech curriculum. Graduates will receive an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology degree at the end of the program.

• Tuition: $138 per credit hour 
• Program length: Two semesters 
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Application deadline: September 15th 
• Submit application
• Provide relevant transcripts (high school and/or college)
• ACT reading score of 13 or higher OR
• Accuplacer reading score of 55 or higher
• Submit immunization records
• Complete admissions interview
• Program Contact: Kacie Cummings, Director of Surgical Technology 
• Email: [email protected]  
• Phone number: (501) 812-2339 
• Online options available? No 

3.  University of Cincinnati – Clermont College – Batavia, Ohio 

The UC Clermont’s program leads to an Associate in Surgical Technology degree. It offers both classroom learning and clinical experience, placing students in hospitals throughout Cincinnati to provide hands-on skills.

Before getting accepted into this program, you must meet with a pre-surgical technology advisor. This meeting will place you on the CST associate degree program list. This surgical tech program has 62 credits, and graduates achieved an 83% pass rate on the CST-ERC in 2018. 

• Tuition: $3,182 per semester 
• Program length: Two years 
• Application deadline: July 1st
• High school diploma or GED
• 2.75 cumulative GPA
• C or higher in biology and chemistry pre-reqs
• Complete physical exam
• Provide proof of health insurance
• Pass a background check and drug screening
• Email: [email protected] 
• Phone number: (513) 558-8316 

4. Gateway Community College – New Haven, CT 

Students who graduate from the Gateway Community College CST program earn an associate in science degree. They are also eligible to take the CST-ERC exam.

Gateway's program takes two years to complete, encompassing 62 total credits. The CST class of 2022 had a 93% graduation rate, with 100% of graduates finding employment. The school also had a high CST student retention rate in 2022, at 74%.

• Tuition: $10,413 
• Application deadline: Admission is offered on a first-come, first-served basis 
• High school transcript showing graduation date OR 
• Copy of high school diploma or GED
• $20 application fee
• Placement examinations in reading, English, and mathematics
• Proof of immunization status 
• Program contact: Angel Pickett, Program Coordinator 
• Email: [email protected]  
• Phone number: (203) 285-2070 

5. Rochester Community and Technical College – Rochester, Minnesota 

Rochester Community and Technical College CST graduates earn an associate of applied science degree. The program admits just 20 students each year. As part of the graduation requirements, students must pass the CST-ERC. The graduating class of 2022 had an 86% pass rate on the NBSTSA certification test. That class had 100% graduate placement within one year of graduation.

• Tuition: $210.55 per credit 
• Application deadline: February 28th 
• C or higher grade in each prerequisite
• Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
• Priority admission for those who finished all first-year classes by spring semester
• Basic life support (CPR and AED) certification
• Complete health assessment and immunizations
• Proof of health insurance
• Complete criminal background check
• Complete a national background study
• Program contact: Jennifer Dahle, Program Advisor 
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone number: (507) 280-3535 

6.  NYU Langone – New York, NY 

NYU Langone Health offers a one-year surgical technology program in two six-month semesters. The first semester, which begins in spring, is devoted to aseptic technique fundamentals of operating room technology and basic surgical procedures. The second semester is primarily spent in clinical settings at locations throughout the NYU Langone facilities.

Completion of the program qualifies graduates to take the national certifying examination. In 2019, graduates from this CST school had a 92% pass rate on the CST-ERC.  

• Tuition: $16,500 
• Program length: One year 
• Application deadline: Rolling 
• Application with personal essay
• Application fee
• High school transcript or GED with scores
• Two references from employer or teacher, past or present
• Program contact: Luba Ashurov, Program Director 
• Phone number: (212) 263-6644  

7. University of Pittsburgh – Johnstown – Johnstown, PA 

This 74-credit associate degree program is offered with Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center’s Surgical Technology program. Students in this program must complete 74 credit hours to earn the Associate Degree in Allied Health. But, they need only 59 credits to earn a surgical tech certification.

The University of Pittsburgh program includes a liberal arts component with electives in social sciences and the humanities. The final three terms focus on operating room techniques and clinical practice. Students get classroom instruction and 1,035 supervised clinical hours during the clinical phase.

The 2020-2021 graduating class had a 100 percent pass rate for the nationally certified surgical tech exam. 

• Tuition: $6,830 per term 
• Accreditation: CAAHEP  
• Submit transcripts (high school and/or college)
• Gain admission to University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown
• Complete two out of four surgical tech pre-reqs with a 2.0 GPA or higher
• Pass a background check, Act 33/34 clearance, and drug screening
• Program contact: Patricia Pavlikowski, Program Director 
• Email: [email protected] 
• Phone number: (814) 534-9772 

8. Utah Tech University – St. George, UT 

This limited CST school admits one class each fall and encompasses 63 total credits. Students take general education, elective, and core discipline classes. Graduates earn an associate of applied science degree. 

Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher throughout this surgical technologist program. They must earn a C or higher in all pre-reqs and core classes. When they graduate, they can sit the CST-ERC exam. 

• Tuition: $2,633 per semester plus a $105 per credit tuition differential 
• Program length: Nine months 
• Application deadline: May 15th 
• Gain admission to Utah Tech University
• Complete required prerequisite courses
• Submit a separate application for the surgical tech program
• Verify ability to perform essential functions of a surgical tech
• Program contact: Heather Osness, Program Director 
• Email: [email protected] 
• Phone number: (435) 879-4842 

*Admission to this program is based on cumulative grade point averages. Higher GPAs are prioritized until seats are full. Depending on availability, some students who meet these requirements may not get accepted into the program.

9. University of Montana – Missoula, Montana 

The University of Montana offers a 64-credit surgical tech program through the Missoula College of Health Professionals. The program’s outcomes in 2017 included:

• 71% graduation rate
• 100% exam participation rate
• 100% employer satisfaction rate
• 100% exam pass rate

Students become Association of Surgical Technologists members during the program's first year. During the clinical portion of their surgical tech education, they rotate through various healthcare sites. They also take the CST-ERC before graduation, when they earn an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology.

• Tuition: $327.34 per credit 
• Application deadline: October 1st 
• Complete prerequisite courses within ten years of application
• Score B or higher in Anatomy and Physiology
• Score C or higher in all other pre-reqs
• Program contact: Jill Davis, Program Director 
• Email: [email protected] 
• Phone number: (406) 243-7876 

10. Santa Fe College – Gainesville, FL 

The surgical tech certificate program offered at Santa Fe College prepares graduates to take the Certified Surgical Technologist exam. The CST school spans four semesters, offering didactic coursework in person and online and clinical internships at local and regional hospitals. The 2021 program outcomes for this CST school were as follows:

• 75% completion
• 91.6% CST-ERC pass rate
• 91.6% graduate employment rate

Students must be available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The first term begins in the summer and ends with a summer program.

• Tuition: $3,383.28 
• Program length: 4 semesters 
• Application deadline: February 15th 
• Immunization record signed by a physician
• Background check and drug screening
• Completion of all general education requirements
• 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA 
• Email: [email protected] 
• Phone number: (352) 395-7322 
• Online options available? Yes

FAQs About Surgical Tech Programs

What is the highest certified surgical tech salary  .

• The highest-paid 10 percent of surgical techs earned more than $95,060, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Is surgical technology a hard major? 

• Studying to become a surgical tech requires dedication and hard work. Students are required to complete coursework, demonstrate knowledge of various surgical specialties, and participate in surgical cases. 

What are the requirements to be a surgical tech? 

• Becoming a surgical tech requires around 60 credit hours of didactic classwork and one year of clinical, hands-on experience.

Can you be a surgical tech without certification? 

• Depending on the state or employer, you may not need a certification to practice as a surgical tech. However, certification can help you become a competitive candidate for better positions.

Are there online surgical tech programs?

• While some surgical tech programs have hybrid coursework, you cannot earn your CST certification fully online. Your coursework must include hands-on clinical experience.

Looking for more resources on becoming a surgical tech or surgical tech salary info, check out these other resources:

• 4 Steps to Becoming a Surgical Technologist
• How Much Do Surgical Techs Make? Surgical Tech Salary Guide
• How to Become a Surgical Nurse

Terri Heimann Oppenheimer is a freelance writer and editor who is driven by details. She loves to dive into research, ensuring that the information she provides educates, engages and illuminates. Before starting her own business she spent years working in advertising and raising three kids. Today she lives in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, where her she and her husband enjoy travel, the Jersey Shore, and spoiling their grandchildren.

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Surgical Technologist

What does a surgical technologist do.

Surgical technologists, also called operating room technicians, work alongside and assist surgeons, nurses, and other members of the health care team throughout a surgical operation. The role of the surgical technologist is incredibly important because they ensure a sterile and organized environment.

Scope of practice

Surgical technologists work in the operating room with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses . Their common tasks and duties can be split into three phases: before the surgical operation (preoperative), during the surgical operation (intraoperative), and after the surgical operation (postoperative).

Before the procedure, surgical technologists focus on sterilization and preparation. This includes:

• Sterilizing the equipment and operating room
• Helping with preparing the patient for surgery 
• Gathering, counting, and arranging the equipment and surgical tools needed during the surgery
• Preparing patients for the procedure

During the surgery, surgical technologists also have a variety of important responsibilities:

• Keeping the operating room sterile
• Passing surgical tools to the surgeon and the surgeon’s assistant
• Assisting in retracting tissues from the surgical patient

After the surgery, surgical technologists assist with wrapping up the procedure and are responsible for:

• Counting all of the tools and instruments used during the surgery
• Applying dressings to surgical sites
• Disposing of needles and gauze
• Maintaining the sterile environment of the operating room until the patient is brought to the recovery room

Specializations

While many surgical technologists work in general surgery or between a variety of areas, some choose to work specifically in a surgical specialty area. Some of the more common specialized surgical areas include: 

• Neurosurgery
• Organ transplantation
• Orthopedic 
• Pediatric surgery
• Plastic surgery

Work environment

Surgical technologists work in hospital operating rooms, outpatient centers, and doctors’ offices. They spend much of their working day in the operating room, preparing for, assisting with, and cleaning up after surgeries. It can become quite warm working under surgical lights in the operating room, especially wearing sterile surgical gowns and gloves. The surgical technologist will need to stand for long periods of time, and must remain alert and ready for anything during operations. 

Surgical technologists typically work full-time, which may include nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call work.

Becoming a surgical technologist

Individuals interested in becoming a surgical technologist, must be detail-oriented. The work of a surgical technologist is incredibly important to ensure a sterile and well-organized environment in the operating room. They need to make sure that all tools are present for the surgery, and accounted for after the surgery is done. Attention to detail is essential to success in this role, and errors could be life threatening. Surgical technologists must work well under pressure and have great communication skills.

Higher education requirements

Surgical technologists may receive their higher education training in a community college, vocational school, university, hospital, or the military. In order to become a surgical technologist, a certificate program that includes specialized education and training is required. 

Surgical technologist training programs can be as short as 12 months for a certificate or two years for a combined associate degree plus specialized training. Typical entrance requirements include a high school diploma and prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and microbiology.

Certification process

Certification is strongly suggested and preferred by many employers. The most common, Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential is offered by the  National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) . 

Career opportunities and outlook

Surgical technologists can expect a median annual salary of $ 48,530 .

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment of surgical technologists will continue to grow at an average pac e. This is due to advances in medical technology and more operations are being done to treat many types of illnesses and injuries.

With additional experience and education, some surgical technologists become first surgical assistants or registered nurses . Others advance by specializing in a particular area of surgery. Some technologists manage central supply departments in hospitals or take positions with insurance companies, sterile supply services, and surgical equipment firms.

By the numbers

median annual salary

years of higher education

job growth projected from 2020-2030

Surgical technologist programs at Mayo Clinic

• Surgical Technology Clinical Rotation (Arizona)
• Surgical Technology Clinical Rotation (Florida)
• Surgical Technology Clinical Rotation (Minnesota)

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Four Reasons You’ll Love Being a Surgical Tech

As a surgical tech, you are an important part of a medical team. You’ll serve as the surgeon’s right hand and get a front-row seat to life-saving procedures. 

At Nebraska Methodist College (NMC), the Associate of Science in Surgical Technology prepares students for an action-packed career working in the operating room.

If that sounds like something you’re interested in, take a look at the top four reasons becoming a surgical tech might be for you.

Surgical technologists typically work in hospitals, surgery centers, outpatient clinics, physician’s clinics and dental offices.

Depending on where you work, you could be part of various procedures, from pediatric surgeries to neurological operations. Even when you regularly assist with similar procedures, bodies are different and every case is unique.

As a surgical tech, you’ll have to think on your feet to keep up with the changes in a job that’s anything but business as usual. You might:

• Get a patient ready for surgery
• Prepare sterile equipment
• Anticipate a surgeon’s needs and provide the right tools at the right time
• Guide a camera during the operation
• Cauterize blood vessels
• Handle specimens for analysis or disposal
• Close wounds
• Apply bandages
• Account for surgical instruments after the procedure
• Sterilize equipment

2. Working in Surgery is an Active Job

If the idea of sitting at a desk looking at a computer screen all day sounds stifling, you need a career that’s more hands-on. Assisting in surgeries means that you’re doing physical work throughout your shifts.

There’s a lot going on in an operating room, and surgical technologists work to stay organized and on top of it all. Some people might be intimidated by the high-stress situation, but surgical techs think it’s exciting. 

With the fast pace of the operating room, you quickly learn to expect the unexpected. The best techs keep a level head when things don’t go as planned and help doctors get the situation under control. Working as a surgical tech is less predictable than many jobs, but you can bet it’s never dull.

Some important qualities of surgical techs are:

• Having strong communication skills
• Being detail-oriented
• Having integrity
• Knowing how to work with a team
• Having stress-management skills

3. Surgical Technology is a Meaningful Career

When you help a surgeon remove a tumor or repair a heart, you can see the good you’re doing firsthand. 

The satisfaction surgical technologists get from being a part of the team that helps patients is hard to match.

4. Surgical Technologists are in Demand

Advances in medical technology and aging baby boomers mean there’s a need for most positions in the medical field, including surgical techs.

It’s a popular program at NMC, as area hospitals count on us to train and prepare the technologists they need to keep up with the pace of medical demand.

In spring 2022, 100% of the surgical technology graduates at NMC were offered employment. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median salary for surgical technologists in 2021 was $48,510, with projected job growth of 6% between 2021 and 2031. 

What You Need to Know About Surgical Tech Programs

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , most employers require an associate’s degree in surgical technology from an accredited program.

At NMC, an associate’s degree in surgical technology is a 21-month program. It allows students to work one-on-one with experienced instructors to develop professional skills in patient care, surgical technology and communication. 

The hands-on experience at NMC prepares you to enter the field after graduation. 

Students prepare for being at the center of action in surgery in the surgical technology lab, which features an operating table, surgical instruments, high-tech surgical lights and more.

Clinicals give you real-world experience in the operating room, which means you’ll have well-rounded knowledge before your first job.

In the final semester, students take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam.

While surgical technology is a rewarding career that you’ll be satisfied with in the long term, you may want to advance your career after getting experience in surgery. You could continue your education to become an assisting technologist or a physician’s assistant. 

How to Become a Surgical Tech

Are you ready to learn more about becoming a surgical tech? Schedule a one-on-one in-person visit or a virtual meeting with an admissions coordinator. 

If you’re ready to get your career as a surgical technologist started, you can apply online .

About the Author

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Surgical Technology

Seattle central college.

Through clinical practice and classroom instruction, Seattle Central College’s four-quarter, Surgical Technology program helps students gain the skills needed to work as surgical technologists. Students are admitted once a year and begin in summer quarter. After successful completion of advanced clinical techniques, students are required to take the National Certification Examination for Surgical Technology and apply for state registration. Surgical technologists are in significant demand in Washington, with varied practice opportunities throughout the state.  The Seattle Central College Surgical Technology program is looking for students who are committed to learning the profession of surgical technology. Before applying, applicants should explore all facets of a surgical technology career, which may include, but are not limited to, infection control, practice settings, and the law as it pertains to surgical technology. Admission is a competitive process. Applicants are encouraged to apply to all surgical technology programs in the region to enhance their chances of securing entrance in a surgical technology program. The Seattle Central College Surgical Technology Program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Review Council for Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA).

In this application, you can expect the following:

• To write a short application essay (required)
• To upload your unofficial transcripts, transcript evaluation results (required)
• To complete professional recommendation form(s) (recommended)
• To pay a $35 application fee with your credit or debit card or in-person at the cashier's office (required). Note: After you hit "submit," you will be given the option to pay online. 

Once you login, you may begin the application. The application saves automatically when you navigate to a different step of the application or log out, so you may come back to finish your application at a later time.   Do not hit the "submit" button at the end of the application until you have finalized your application and uploaded all of your supporting documents.

For questions regarding the application process or program, please contact us at  [email protected] .

2024 Surg Tech Application

Application period closed.

Application deadline was: 2/16/2024

If you do not have an Student ID issued by Seattle Central College , please complete the college’s online application found at . You will receive an Student ID two business days after submitting that application. If you have any questions, please call Admissions at .

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Why I decided to become a surgical technologist A guest post

As a kid, I had to get my appendix removed. The whole thing was a nasty experience, but I have to say, I was grateful when the pain of my ruptured appendix was gone. At one point, I was still recovering in a hospital room – I’m not sure how soon after surgery – and someone walked in to take a look at me and ask me if I needed anything. “Are you a nurse?” I asked her. “Nope,” she said, “I’m just a scrub tech.” But she was so friendly and kind to me that I knew I wanted to be a surgical technologist, too.

When I got older, I thought about the pros and cons of the career. Everybody knows the good things about being a surgical technologist – it’s a dependable career in a field that will only keep growing, first of all. Jobs for surgical technologists are expected to grow in number by almost 20% in the next few years. I’ll benefit from that, because the more places there are for me to work, the more my current employer will pay to keep me.

My starting salary was great, too – I’m making more now, but as a beginner scrub tech in California I was making $17 per hour. Now that I have more experience, I can choose to take more on-call time (work outside of regular business hours). That greatly increases my income, and I don’t mind being ready to work at a moment’s notice once in a while. I’d definitely suggest to anyone looking for a stable, well-paid career to become a surgical technologist.

I also couldn’t stand the thought of going to a four-year college, financially or personally. Not only do I consider liberal arts degrees to be a waste of money, but also I just don’t enjoy school. I like being active and involved, not sitting around and discussing who knows what with people who aren’t really doing much to improve the world. I believe in helping people, hands on.

The biggest impetus for my career choice, though, was how much energy I have. I can’t do a desk job – I need something exciting, and working in the operating room comes with its share of excitement. I don’t carry the same risks and liabilities as surgeons and doctors do, as it’s not my fault if the patient gets hurt. However, I do get to participate in interesting and exciting surgeries. I get the upside, not the downside.

Not just anyone should become a surgical technologist. It does involve a lot of standing, and some people are more squeamish about blood than they realize. But I love the work, and I love that it keeps me on my feet. If you’re anything like me, look into a training program for surgical technology, and make sure it’s accredited by CAAHEP and ABHES – otherwise, you won’t be able to get a CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) certification, and my CST title definitely raised my wages.

Good luck, and I hope my little testimonial helped somebody decide to become a surgical technologist.

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Program Overview

Degrees & certificates, surgical technology associate of applied science - transfer degree (aas-t).

Two-year, job-training degrees that prepare students for immediate employment. Students take additional general education electives, making this a good option if you intend to transfer to a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree program or may attend a university in the future to earn a bachelor’s degree. Learn more

• Credits to complete: 95.0
• Estimated program length in quarters: Full Time - 4

About the Program

Through quality clinical practice and excellent classroom programs, Seattle Central College’s Surgical Technology program helps students gain the skills needed to work as a surgical technologist in the in-demand healthcare field.

Career Opportunities

Surgical Technologists work under the direct supervision of a physician or registered nurse as part of a healthcare team, and are in high demand throughout Washington state and beyond. Graduates have excellent job prospects in a variety of healthcare settings, such as:

• Hospital operating rooms
• Outpatient care centers
• Ambulatory surgical centers
• Private surgery clinics
• Tissue procurement
• Central supply processing
• Medical equipment sales
• Veterinary medicine

Certification Exam Pass Rates

Learn more about this program's Certification Exam Pass Rates (pdf).

Accreditation

The Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs ( caahep.org ) upon the recommendation of Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

Seattle Central College's Surgical Technology program is intended to meet the educational requirements for licensing/certification in the State of Washington only. Seattle Central College has not determined if the Surgical Technology curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensing/certification in any other state. Additional information about licensure/certification concerns can be found on the NC-SARA webpage. Please contact eLearning with any questions at [email protected] .

Gainful Employment

Learn more about this program's Gainful Employment information (pdf).

Program lengths are estimates, not guarantees. For the most current program information, please check with the program contact.

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Welcome to SVSTI- ABHES Accredited Surgical Technology Program at Northern CA's premier School.

There's much to see here. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know about SVSTI. We hope you enjoy our site and take a moment to drop us a line. We offer a one of a kind blended program with exceptional hands-on training and experience. Northern California's outstanding accredited allied health Surgical Technology School. 

Surgical Technology Pre Enrollment forms

Professional reference links, link to professional reference release form- completed by applicant.

https://form.jotform.com/232941171031041

Link to Professional References (need two references)

https://form.jotform.com/232940648699069

Surgical Technology Student Handbook & ANNUAL REPORTs

2020 Annual Report BPPE- ST (pdf)

ST CERTIFICATE PFS 4.2023 UPDATED (pdf)

2021 Annual Report BPPE- ST (pdf)

Surgical Technology Program Handbook 1.2024 (docx)

2022 Annual Report BPPE- ST Degree (pdf)

2022 Annual Report BPPE- ST Certificate (pdf)

Welcome to SVSTI - Where Learning Never Ends

At SVSTI, we believe that learning is a continuous process that should never end. Our mission is to provide high-quality adult education courses that are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience. Our courses are designed to help you acquire new skills, advance your career, and achieve your personal goals. Join us today and embark on a journey of lifelong learning!

Surgical Technology Degree Program

 The Surgical Technology Program requires student candidates to either enroll with an associate degree or higher or enroll in the Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology Program. The degree program consists of ONE 16- week term online completing the General Education portion of the program followed by TWO 16- week terms on campus, completing the core portion of the program. The final 16-week term is at a designated medical facility. The degree program is approximately 16 months, not including holidays and breaks.

Surgical Technology Certificate Program

The Surgical Technology Certificate Program requires student candidates to hold an AAS, AOS, or associate degree or higher.  Candidates must submit a copy of the earned degree AND official transcripts for Certificate program eligibility.  The Certificate program consists of a TWO 16- week terms on campus, completing the core portion of the program. The third and final 16-week term is at a designated medical facility. The Certificate program is approximately 12 months, not including holidays and breaks. 

TO BEGIN the REQUIRED STEPS for consideration for Surgical Technology Enrollment  (ALL of the following will be graded, and points earned will to totaled for entrance qualification) :

• Submit an Essay which includes  why you want to become a Surgical Technologist - include your  name, email address, and cell phone number ( Instructions are found on the SVSTI website – under the Surgical Technology tab )
• COMPLETE this Reference Release Authorization :   SVSTI Applicant Reference Release Form
• Submit TWO (2) Professional References – ( please find the reference form on our website) OR USE THIS LINK: SVSTI Professional Reference Form –  References should be directed to me via the link; email (SEND AS A PDF ATTACHMENT), OR USPS mail.
• AFTER SUBMITTING the essay and references - SCHEDULE  a campus tour - which may include a 12-minute timed Entrance Exam
• Interview with our Program Director

If you are accepted into the Program – The following must be completed:

• COMPLETE the Surgical Technology Enrollment Packet (electronically)
• Official Copies of College transcripts (past and current) – CERTIFICATE or DEGREE (if seeking credit transfer eligibility)  
• CA Driver’s License or California State ID - Copy of BOTH sides  
• A copy of your HS diploma OR GED, Official College Transcripts/Degree (in English)
• Your BLS card (American Heart Association only)
• Childhood and/or current immunization records
• Program tuition payment - payment options are reviewed at enrollment.

Once your documents have been received, and you are formally accepted into the Surgical Tech program, you will receive an acceptance letter (email) from Admissions.  At that time, you will have FIVE business days to make your payment in full OR pay your $3400 deposit + STRF fees in accordance with your PRE-APPROVED payment plan. Each cohort begins with an Orientation.

 ONLY USE DOCUSIGN LINK SENT TO YOU FROM ENROLLMENT COORDINATOR  

Surgical Technology School

Role & responsibilities, what is a surgical technologist.

A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, scrub tech, surgical technician, or operating room technician, is an allied health professional working as a part of the team delivering surgical care. Surgical technologists are members of the surgical team. Join our ST Program today!

Becoming a Surgical Technologist

Many healthcare careers require several years of schooling before being qualified to start working. Fortunately, this isn’t the case for surgical techs. Most employers require a postsecondary Certificate or Associate’s degree to work in this position. 

Daily Responsibilities of a ST

Assists in operations, under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. May help set up operating room, prepare and transport patients for surgery, adjust lights and equipment, pass instruments and other supplies to surgeons and surgeon's assistants, hold retractors, cut sutures, and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments. 

Working Conditions & Physical Demands of the Surgical Technologist

• Able to stand, bend, stoop, and/or sit for long periods of time in one location with minimum/no breaks (in accordance to your shift ie: 8, 10, 12 etc. hours). 
• Able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds.
• Able to refrain from nourishment or restroom breaks for periods up to 6 hours.
• Demonstrate sufficient visual ability enough to load a fine (10-0) suture onto needles and needle holders with/without corrective lenses and while wearing safety glasses.
• Demonstrate sufficient peripheral vision to anticipate and function while in the sterile surgical environment.
• Hear and understand muffled communication without visualization of the communicator’s mouth/lips and within 20 feet.
• Hear activation/warning signals on equipment.
• Able to detect odors sufficient to maintain environmental safety and patient needs.
• Manipulate instruments, supplies and equipment with speed, dexterity, and good eye-hand coordination using assistive devices. (having the ability to work quickly & safely in emergent situations is VERY important). 
• Able to assist with and/or lift, move, position, and manipulate the patient who is unconscious with or without assistive devices.
• Communicate and understand fluent English both verbally and in writing.
• To be free of reportable communicable diseases and chemical abuse.
• Function without allergic reaction in an environment with substantial latex exposure.
• Able to demonstrate immunity to required immunizations.
• Possess short- and long-term memory sufficient to perform tasks such as, but not limited to, mentally tracking surgical supplies and performing anticipation skills interoperability.
• Able to make appropriate judgment decisions.
• Demonstrate the use of positive coping skills under stress.
• Demonstrate calm and effective responses, especially in emergency situations.
• Exhibit positive interpersonal skills during patient, staff, and faculty interactions.
• Able to  bending or twist your body more.
• Exposure to pollutants, gases, dust, fumes, odors, poor ventilation, etc.
• Exposed to disease and infections.
• Able to perform repetitive movements. 
• Able to retain information.

Our Surgical Technology Program will prepare you for real-world situations. SVSTI is a Surgical Tech School like no other and is located in the Bay Area of California. 

Physical Requirements for Surgical Techs

• Identifying color and seeing differences in color, including shades and brightness
• Seeing clearly at a distance
• Seeing clearly up close
• Speaking clearly enough to be able to be understood by others
• Identifying and understanding the speech of another person
• Using abdominal and lower back muscles repeatedly or over time without tiring
• Retain Information  
• Flexibility/Thinking on your feet 
• Quick Learner
• Work quickly without any restrictions
• STAY HUMBLE/STAY HUNGRY

Surgical Technologist Essential Functions 

A surgical technologist is a healthcare professional whose primary responsibility is to maintain the sterile field, understand the procedure being performed, anticipate the needs of the surgeon, maintain a current knowledge base, maintain quality patient care during the operative procedure, and maintain constant vigilance regarding the adherence of aseptic technique by all members of the surgical team and their surroundings. They handle the instruments, supplies, and equipment necessary before, during, and after the surgical procedure. In addition to the technical aspects of the profession, the technologist must always be aware of the patient’s condition and needs.

Special Qualifications: In addition to minimum requirements regarding Reading, Writing, and Math skills, the student must, unassisted:

1. Able to make appropriate judgment decisions.

2. Demonstrate ability to comprehend and interpret written material.

3. Demonstrate the use of positive coping skills during patient, staff, and faculty interactions. 4. Follow written and oral/verbal instructions in English. Possess short-term and long-term memory sufficient to perform tasks, e.g., mentally tracking surgical supplies and performing anticipation skills during the operation.

5. Synthesize information from written material and apply the knowledge to various situations.

Psychomotor Qualifications:

1. Hearing – normal, corrected, or aid able. Hear and understand muffled communication without visualization of the communicator’s mouth/lips and within 20 feet. Hear activation/warning signals on equipment.

2. Vision – normal, corrected. Demonstrate sufficient visual ability enough to load a fine (10-0)  suture onto needles and needle holders with/without corrective lenses and while wearing safety glasses. Demonstrate sufficient peripheral vision to anticipate and function while in the sterile surgical environment.

3. Touch – normal tactile sensitivity. Manipulate instruments, supplies, and equipment with speed, dexterity, and good eye-hand coordination.

4. Smell – able to detect odors sufficient to maintain environmental safety and patient needs.

Physical Qualifications:

1. Able to stand, bend, stoop, and/or sit for long periods of time in one location with minimum/no breaks. 2. Able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds. 3. Able to refrain from nourishment or restroom breaks for periods up to 6 hours. 4. Ambulate/move around without assistive devices. 5. Able to assist with and/or lift, move, position, and manipulate patient who is unconscious with/without assistive devices. 6. Successfully complete a CPR certification course.

Communication Qualifications:

1. The ability to interact and verbally communicate with others. Demonstrate positive interpersonal skills during patient, staff, and faculty interactions. 2. Demonstrate calm and effective responses, especially in emergency situations. 3. Knowledge of basic written, grammar, and spelling skills. 4. Ability to communicate and understand fluent English both verbally and in writing.

Surgical technology core performance standards

 The Surgical Technology program at SVSTI prepares and educates students to become entry level surgical technologists in operating rooms. The profession’s scope of practice requires demonstration of responsibilities and accountability within the role and competencies expected of a surgical technologist. It is important to note that the profession of surgical technologist is one that is physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. Indicated below are several examples of the scope of practice, roles, and competencies that will be encountered. 

SVSTI is committed to providing reasonable accommodation in its academic programs to qualified individuals with disabilities, including but not limited to learning disabilities. A reasonable accommodation is one that does not require a fundamental alteration to the nature of the program or lower academic and/or clinical standards. 

Throughout the program, students must be able to perform in a reasonably independent and timely manner that does not affect the quality of care, the safety of patients or other individuals, and in a way that does not adversely affect SVSTI, clinical affiliates, or any member of the healthcare team.

Students must have the aptitude and abilities in six areas: sensory ability and skills; fine and gross motor skills; strength, mobility, and physical endurance; the ability to communicate, comprehend, read, and write in English; behavioral stability; and cognitive ability and critical thinking skills.

It is the student’s responsibility to understand the duties, responsibilities, skills, and abilities required to be a surgical technologist. In addition to the technical standards described below, students are encouraged to review the information regarding surgical technologists at Surgical Technology (svsti.com)

The following list is not meant to be all-inclusive, but instead it offers examples of required activities. Students are encouraged to review the standards carefully; if there are any questions or concerns, they should be discussed with the Chief Academic Director of SVSTI

Core Performance Standards 

• Able to stand, bend, and/or sit for long periods of time in one location with minimum/no breaks. 

• Able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds. 

• Able to refrain from nourishment or restroom breaks for periods of up to six hours. 

• Demonstrate sufficient visual ability to load a fine (10-0) suture onto needles and needle holders with/without corrective lenses and while wearing eye protection. 

• Demonstrate sufficient peripheral vision to anticipate and function while in the sterile surgical environment. 

• Hear and understand muffled communication without visualization of the communicator’s mouth/lips and within 20 feet. 

• Hear activation/warning signals on equipment. 

• Able to detect odors sufficient to maintain environmental safety and patient needs. 

• Manipulate instruments, supplies, and equipment with speed, dexterity, and good eye-hand coordination. 

• Ambulate/move around without assistive devices. 

• Able to assist with and/or lift, move, position, and manipulate the patient who is unconscious with or without assistive devices. 

• Able to effectively communicate with others, both verbally and in writing. 

• Possess short- and long-term memory sufficient to perform tasks such as, but not limited to, mentally tracking surgical supplies and performing anticipation skills intraoperatively. 

• Able to make appropriate judgment decisions. 

• Demonstrate the use of positive coping skills under stress. 

• Demonstrate calm and effective responses, especially in emergency situations. 

• Exhibit positive interpersonal skills during patient, staff, and faculty interactions. 

• Perform all laboratory and clinical skills within a pre-established timeframe that ensures safe patient care.

•Manipulate instruments, supplies and equipment with speed, dexterity, and good eye-hand coordination using assistive devices. (having the ability to work quickly & safely in emergent situations is VERY important).

• To be free of reportable communicable diseases and chemical abuse.

• Able to perform repetitive movements and bend, move, and twist your body for extended periods of time.

SVSTI SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM GOALS & OUTCOMES

SVSTI's ST Program's expectations are to prepare competent entry-level surgical technologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.

Institutional Student Learning Outcomes

SVSTI’s Institutional Student Learning Outcomes illustrate the entire institution’s commitment to ensuring that all graduates demonstrate proficiency in the following: (ISLO’s)

1-Critical thinking 

2-Collaboration 

3-Communication 

4-Professionalism

Programmatic Student Learning Outcomes

SVSTI’s Programmatic   Student Learning Outcomes are listed below : (PSLO’s)

Upon completion of this program students will be able;

1-Identify the basic principles of aseptic technique & Surgical procedures. 

2-Demonstrate the skills and knowledge required to be a competent Surgical Technologist in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgical facilities and other appropriate medical sites. 

3-Demonstrate critical thinking, information management, professional and personal development, communication skills, respect and responsibility.

Student Learning Outcomes

SVSTI’s course content is developed in alignment with specific Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs).

Upon completion of this program students will be able to;

• Demonstrate application of principles of asepsis in a knowledgeable manner that provides for optimal patient care in the operating room (Psychomotor)
• Demonstrate entry-level knowledge of basic instruments, surgical equipment, and basic Surgical procedures and Medical Terminology  (Psychomotor)
• Demonstrate responsibility, self-discipline, and surgical conscience (Affective)
• Apply basic understanding of Anatomy & Physiology & appropriate medical  terminology (Cognitive)
• Perform fundamental concepts of intermediate procedures, patient positioning, and surgical draping (Psychomotor)
• Employ critical thinking skills in their identification of variations and analysis of information and/or equipment during surgical procedures (Psychomotor and Cognitive)
• Demonstrate  responsibility, self-discipline, and surgical conscience & communication to the surgical team (Affective)
• Apply basic understanding of Anatomy & Physiology, Ethics & appropriate medical  terminology (Cognitive)
• Develop effective interpretation and expression of ideas through written and oral communication in the operating room (Affective)
• Perform advanced  applications of surgical procedures (Psychomotor)
• Identify pharmacological agents and their purpose in surgery
• Identify various types of anesthesia used in surgery 
• Demonstrate effective  communication skills with appropriate surgical staff (Affective)
• Apply basic  understanding of Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Human Behavior,  Ethics, Pharmacology & appropriate Medical Terminology (Cognitive)
• Demonstrate the ability to perform the role of first scrub on all basic general and specialty surgical cases as defined by the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) (Psychomotor and Cognitive)

Upon successful completion of the SVSTI’s Surgical Technology Program, graduates will be able to meet or exceed the following additional Program Learning Outcomes: 

· Complete eligibility requirements for the National Certification Exam for Surgical Technologists 

· Demonstrate knowledge of surgical technology skills by successfully accomplishing controlled learning activities 

· Employ information obtained from biological, social, and psychological studies

· Obtain and use knowledge in providing culturally fitting patient care 

· Apply acquired skills and knowledge within the clinical setting 

· Practice surgical asepsis in diverse clinical backgrounds

· Function as a surgical team member to deliver excellence in patient care 

· Demonstrate the development and consistent application of a surgical conscience 

· Practice accountability, competence, and character demonstrative of a trained professional 

· Practice ownership of learning and maintain responsibility and self-discipline to appraise and incorporate continued learning 

· Relate and apply concepts of communication, reasoning, critical analysis, ethical behavior, and appropriate interpersonal interaction to situations in his or her career and personal life 

· Demonstrate the social skills, professional appearance, attitudes, and behavior that employers expect of all SVSTI graduates  

This Program is the hands-on application of the concepts and theory studied in Cengage & MindTap. Students learn and apply the basic principles of aseptic technique,   basic surgical sanitation, disinfection and sterilization. The focus will be on surgical instrumentation preparation and sterilization; proper technique for surgical hand scrub, gowning, gloving, sterile field set-up and maintenance. Identification of instrumentation by function and use; draping, equipment names and use, safety precautions, and introduction to surgical procedures. Demonstrate proficiency in intermediate surgical skills to include: surgical case management, identify and correct sterility breaks, set up in appropriate time, and complete case in a logical sequence.  Intermediate surgical procedures; application of fundamental concepts of Surgical Technology, preparation of  the patient in surgery, pre-op and post-op duties, patient positioning, intermediate instrumentation, suture use and identification, drain use and identification. 

Surgical technology Program

Program status.

SVSTI is accredited by ABHES ( https://www.abhes.org ). 

Millions of people have surgery performed on them yearly. Surgeries can range from vital heart transplants to low-risk and common procedures. The success of these procedures relies on more than just surgeons. For a procedure to be a success it often requires a full team of trained medical staff members. A major position in nearly all surgical teams is the surgical technologist. Join our ST Program today to become a Surgical Technologist. What is a surgical technologist? 

Surgical technologists work in hospitals and clinics around the world. While tasks may vary due to the needs of the operating staff, surgical technologists provide a variety of tasks to assist surgeons performing an operation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists work before, during and after a surgery.

What Surgical Technologists Do

Prior to an operation, surgical technologists help prepare the operating room. Some common tasks include prepping surgical instruments and equipment, preparing sterile drapes, and sterile solutions. Technologists may also prepare patients for surgery by washing, shaving, and disinfecting incision sites. They transport patients to the operating room, help position them on the operating table, and cover them with sterile surgical drapes. Technologists also help the surgical team put on sterile gowns and gloves. Source:   https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/surgical-technologists.htm.

During a surgery, surgical technologists can pass instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgeon assistants. They may hold retractors, cut sutures, and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments. Surgical technologists help prepare, care for, and dispose of specimens taken for laboratory analysis and help apply dressings. Some operate sterilizers, lights, or suction machines, and help operate diagnostic equipment. After an operation, surgical technologists may help transfer patients to the recovery room and clean and restock the operating room. Source:   https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/surgical-technologists.htm#tab-2.  

You will be required to have a background check before placement. (depends on site) If you do not pass the background test you will not be placed at a clinical site and will be dropped from the Surgical Technology and/or Sterile Processing Programs.

You will be required by a clinical site to have a drug test before placement. (depends on site) If you do not pass drug test you will not be placed at a clinical site and will be dropped from the Surgical Technology and/or the Sterile Processing Programs. 

Credit Hours & Courses for Surgical Tech Degree PROGRAm

SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY DEGREE PROGRAM CREDIT HOURS (docx)

Number of credits required for program completion

Surgical Technology Program 

You will need to pass each Surgical Tech course with a 70% or higher to continue to the next course. Please see the following ;

Surgical Technology Certificate Program (only available for those with an associate degree or higher enrolling into the program). 

Credit Hours 

ST1/ST111 27 Credit Hours 

352 Lecture Hours

144 Lab Hours

Total Hours= 496 Hours = 27 Credits

ST1 - Surgical Technology Theory 1 = 22 Credits

Anatomy & Physiology 1 

Medical Terminology 1 

Surgical Instruments 1 

Ethics  

AST Surgical Procedures 1 

Microbiology  

ST111 - Surgical Technology Lab = 5 Credits

ST2/ST222 26 Credit Hours 

336 Lecture Hours

160 Lab Hours

Total= 480 Hours = 26 Credits

ST2 -Surgical Technology Theory 2 = 21 Credits

Anatomy & Physiology 2 

Medical Terminology 2 

Surgical Instruments 2 

Human Behavior  

AST Surgical Procedures 2 

Pharmacology  

ST222 - Surgical Technology Lab = 5 Credits

ST3/ST333 20 Credit Hours

140 Lecture Hours (including CST Prep which is required)

500 Clinical Hours

Total= 640 Hours

Total Credit Hours for Certificate Program = 1616 Hours 

73 Credit Hours 

General Education Credit Hours = 15 Semester Credits

ENG101 English Writing & Composition - 48 Clock Hours = 3 Credit Hours

MAT101 Basic Mathematics for College Students - 48 Clock Hours = 3 Credit Hours

SPH205 Interpersonal Communication - 48 Clock Hours = 3 Credit Hours

PSY101 Introduction to Psychology - 48 Clock Hours = 3 Credit Hours

CLT102 Computer Concepts - 48 Clock Hours = 3 Credit Hours

Total Credit Hours for Degree Program = 1856 Hours

88 Semester Credits

Clinical case Requirements

Externship rotation minimum requirements.

Surgical Technology School-ST Program 

The distribution of the 120 procedures is as follows :  

General Surgery cases (minimum of 30 cases)  

A. Students must complete a minimum on 30 cases in General Surgery, 20 which must be performed in the First Scrub Role. The remaining 10 cases may be performed in either First or Second Scrub Role.  

Specialty Cases (minimum of 90 cases)  

B Students must complete a minimum of 90 cases in various surgical specialties excluding General Surgery; 60 which must be performed in the First Scrub Role. The additional 30 cases may be performed in either the First or Second Scrub Role.  

a. A minimum of 60 surgical specialty cases must be performed in the First Scrub Role and distributed amongst a minimum of four surgical specialties. 

(1) A minimum of 10 cases in the First Scrub Role must be completed in each of the required minimum of four surgical specialties (40 cases total required).  

(2) The additional 20 cases in the First Scrub Role may be distributed amongst any one surgical specialty or multiple surgical specialties.  

b. The remaining 30 surgical specialty case may be performed in surgical specialty either in the First or Second Role.  

Optional Surgical Specialties 

1. Diagnostic endoscopy cases and vaginal delivery cases are not mandatory. However, up to 10 diagnostic endoscopic cases ad 5 vaginal delivery cases can be counted toward the maximum number of Second Scrub Role cases. 

a. Diagnostic Endoscopy cases must be documented in the category of “Diagnostic Endoscopy”, rather than by specialty. 

b. Vaginal delivery cases must be documented in the category of: “Labor & Delivery” rather than in the OB/GYN specialty. 

Case Experience in the Second Scrub Role is not mandatory. 

Observation cases must be documented, but do not count towards the 120 required cases. 

Cases will be counted and documented according to surgical specialty (exception being diagnostic endoscopic cases.

All student activities associated with the curriculum, especially while students are completing clinical rotations, will be educational in nature. Students will not be substituted for hired staff personnel within the clinical institution, in the capacity of a surgical technologist.  

Certification Exam

  ALL Surgical Technology Graduates will sit for the NBSTSA certification exam at successful completion of the Program.  

SVSTI requires each and every student to participate in the Certification Prep class during the program and after externship to graduate from the program. We want to ensure every student is successful in passing their certification exam and require this as part of the curriculum. 

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