Looking for Surgical Tech Programs?

Surgical technologists, also known as surgical technicians or operating room technicians, are critical members of the healthcare team, playing an essential role in assisting during surgeries and other medical procedures. These professionals are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is prepared for procedures, maintaining a sterile environment, passing instruments to surgeons, and assisting with patient care before, during, and after surgery. Due to the high level of responsibility and specialized skills required, it is essential for aspiring surgical technologists to receive training from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

To become a certified surgical technologist, students must complete a program that is accredited by CAAHEP, as this ensures that the education meets the high standards necessary to prepare students for the challenges of the field. Surgical technology programs typically take between nine months and two years to complete, resulting in a certificate, diploma, or associate's degree. These programs are designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills they need to perform the duties required of surgical technologists.

Many colleges and universities across the United States offer CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology programs, each with unique features and opportunities for students. Some of the top colleges providing these programs include Rasmussen College, Niagara County Community College, Sinclair Community College, Colorado Technical University (CTU), and Nebraska Methodist College. These institutions not only provide high-quality education but also ensure that students are well-prepared to sit for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination, administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Becoming certified is a critical step for most surgical technologists, as certification is often required for employment and may also lead to better job prospects and higher salaries.

Rasmussen College is a prominent institution that offers a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technologist program at its Brooklyn Park and St. Cloud campuses. The program is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in the field. Students at Rasmussen College are trained in a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and hands-on clinical experience at affiliated healthcare facilities. The program’s comprehensive curriculum covers essential topics such as sterile techniques, surgical instruments, patient care, anatomy and physiology, and medical terminology. Students also gain real-world experience by participating in clinical rotations, where they assist in actual surgeries under the supervision of experienced surgical technologists and other medical professionals. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the CST exam, enabling them to become credentialed professionals who are ready to work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and physician’s offices.

Another excellent option for those pursuing a career as a surgical technologist is Niagara County Community College (NCCC). NCCC’s Surgical Technology program is accredited by CAAHEP and offers a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience. The program consists of four full-time semesters, during which students develop the skills needed to assist in surgeries, maintain sterile environments, and manage surgical instruments. Students are exposed to a wide range of medical procedures, from minor outpatient surgeries to more complex operations, providing them with a well-rounded education. NCCC’s program is highly regarded for its focus on providing students with the technical skills and knowledge necessary for success in the operating room. Graduates are well-prepared for the CST certification exam and can pursue a variety of career paths in the healthcare industry. The program also emphasizes professional development, ensuring that students are not only skilled technicians but also equipped with the interpersonal and communication skills necessary to work effectively in healthcare teams.

Sinclair Community College, located in Dayton, Ohio, offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology that is accredited by CAAHEP. The program is designed to prepare students for a successful career as a surgical technologist by providing them with a rigorous education in both theoretical and practical aspects of the profession. The program’s curriculum includes courses in surgical procedures, sterile techniques, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and medical terminology. Students also complete hands-on training in a fully equipped surgical technology lab, where they practice the skills required in the operating room. One of the key features of Sinclair’s program is the opportunity for students to participate in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers. These clinical experiences give students the chance to apply what they have learned in real-world settings and gain valuable experience working alongside surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Upon completing the program, graduates are eligible to take the CST exam, which is a critical step in becoming a certified surgical technologist.

Colorado Technical University (CTU) offers a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology program at its Denver campus, which is ideal for students who wish to pursue a career in the dynamic field of surgical technology. The program at CTU is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to work in the operating room, assisting in various types of surgeries. The curriculum at CTU covers important topics such as surgical instrumentation, aseptic technique, patient care, and the role of the surgical technologist in different types of medical procedures. Students are also given the opportunity to participate in clinical training at local healthcare facilities, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in the operating room. CTU’s program is notable for its flexibility, with students able to complete coursework through a combination of on-campus and online classes. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for students who need to balance their education with other responsibilities. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the CST exam, which can help them gain certification and increase their job opportunities in the competitive healthcare job market.

Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) offers a CAAHEP-accredited Surgical Technology program that prepares students to work as surgical technologists in a variety of healthcare settings. The program can be completed in as little as 22 months, allowing students to quickly enter the workforce and begin their careers in the operating room. The curriculum at NMC is comprehensive, covering essential topics such as anatomy and physiology, surgical procedures, sterilization techniques, and patient care. Students also complete a series of clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals and healthcare facilities, where they gain hands-on experience in real surgical settings. The program is structured to ensure that students are well-prepared for the CST exam, and the college’s strong relationships with local healthcare providers help to ensure that students have access to high-quality clinical training. NMC’s program emphasizes both technical skills and professionalism, ensuring that graduates are not only technically proficient but also well-prepared to work effectively in a team-oriented healthcare environment.

For individuals who aspire to work in the surgical technology field, choosing the right educational program is a crucial decision. Attending a CAAHEP-accredited program ensures that students receive high-quality training that meets national standards and prepares them for certification. Institutions like Rasmussen College, Niagara County Community College, Sinclair Community College, Colorado Technical University, and Nebraska Methodist College offer top-notch surgical technology programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. These programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to succeed as surgical technologists and to pass the CST exam. Graduates of these programs are well-positioned to enter the workforce and pursue careers in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and other healthcare settings, where they will play an essential role in ensuring the safety and success of surgical procedures. With strong demand for skilled surgical technologists in the healthcare industry, completing a CAAHEP-accredited program is an excellent step toward achieving a rewarding and fulfilling career.