Program Description
The Surgical Technology diploma program prepares students for employment in a variety of positions in the surgical field. The Surgical Technology diploma program provides learning opportunities which introduce, develop, and reinforce academic and technical knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. Graduates of the program receive a Surgical Technology diploma and are qualified for employment as surgical technologists. The Surgical Technology program is accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP) and graduates are eligible to take the national certifying examination to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).
Program Length
A minimum of 87 credit hours is required for graduation.
A full time student should expect to complete requirements in 6-7 quarters.
Salary Range
$25,490 to $30,300 annually
Career Opportunities
The job market for the surgical technologist is projected to grow 24% between 2006-2016, much faster than the average for all occupations through the year of 2016 (Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009). Hospitals will continue to be the primary employer; however, other employment opportunities in additional areas include: contract medical personnel companies, ambulatory surgical centers, physicians’ offices, and clinics.
Career Traits/Requirements
Ability to interact with patients and other health professionals, ability to stand on one’s feet and in one position for extended periods of time, ability to lift 30 pounds, emotional stability, possess a strong sense of responsibility, considerable patience and concern for others, function well as a team member, possess manual dexterity and fine motor coordination, capacity to perform well under stress or in emergency situations, perform accurately and efficiently, and the ability to concentrate for long periods and stay on task.
Entrance Date
Check Competitive Admissions Criteria
Program Courses |
