Top Surgical Tech Certification Programs: Start Your Career Today
If you're interested in a rewarding healthcare career that combines technical expertise with hands-on patient care, becoming a surgical technologist (surgical tech) could be the perfect fit. Surgical techs play an essential role in the operating room, assisting surgeons and nurses to ensure that surgeries go smoothly and efficiently. To begin this career path, you'll need to complete a surgical tech certification program. This article will guide you through the top programs, what they offer, and how they can help you launch your career as a surgical technologist.
What Is a Surgical Tech Certification?
A surgical technologist certification, typically awarded by accredited institutions, verifies that you have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to assist in surgeries. The certification can be earned through a structured program, either in-person or online, followed by an exam that tests your understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and medical terminology.
The most recognized certification for surgical technologists is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, awarded by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). While certification isn’t always required by law, it is highly recommended and often preferred by employers. It demonstrates your proficiency and can make you more competitive in the job market.
Key Skills You’ll Learn in a Surgical Tech Program
In a surgical tech certification program, you’ll learn various skills that are crucial for success in the operating room. These include:
❶ Sterilization and Infection Control: Understanding proper sterilization techniques to prevent infections.
❷ Surgical Instruments: Knowing the names, functions, and handling of different surgical instruments.
❸ Patient Care: Preparing patients for surgery, including positioning them on the operating table and providing comfort.
❹ Surgical Procedures: Assisting in setting up and handling surgical procedures, including draping and passing instruments to surgeons.
❺ Medical Terminology: Familiarity with medical terminology and the ability to follow instructions from surgeons and nurses during operations.
Top Surgical Tech Certification Programs
Here are some of the best surgical tech certification programs available, offering comprehensive training and hands-on experience to ensure you’re job-ready upon graduation.
▶ 1. Keiser University
Program: Surgical Technology Associate Degree
Duration: Approximately 21 months
Format: In-person with clinical experience
Overview: Keiser University offers a highly regarded surgical technology program that provides both classroom learning and practical experience. The program prepares students to sit for the CST exam and trains them in various aspects of the surgical tech field.
▶ 2. The University of Alaska Anchorage
Program: Surgical Technology Associate Degree
Duration: 2 years
Format: On-campus and clinical training
Overview: The University of Alaska Anchorage offers a well-rounded program that focuses on both the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for a successful surgical technologist. It also emphasizes safety and patient care, preparing students for a variety of settings.
▶ 3. Gateway Community College
Program: Surgical Technology Certificate and Associate Degree
Duration: 9 months for certificate, 2 years for degree
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Overview: Gateway Community College offers a flexible program that allows students to earn either a certificate or an associate degree in surgical technology. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning in clinical settings, giving students the real-world experience they need.
▶ 4. Pima Medical Institute
Program: Surgical Technology Certificate and Associate Degree
Duration: 9 months for certificate, 2 years for degree
Format: In-person with clinical practice
Overview: Pima Medical Institute offers a fast-paced, in-person program designed to get students certified and ready to work in under a year. The curriculum is designed to provide solid preparation for the CST exam and the working world of surgery.
▶ 5. Herzing University
Program: Surgical Technology Associate Degree
Duration: 2 years
Format: Blended (online coursework with in-person clinical training)
Overview: Herzing University offers a flexible associate degree program in surgical technology that combines online coursework with in-person clinical experience. The program is designed to fit students’ schedules while offering comprehensive training.
▶ 6. St. Philip’s College
Program: Surgical Technology Associate Degree
Duration: 2 years
Format: On-campus and clinical training
Overview: St. Philip’s College in Texas offers a well-regarded surgical technology program with a focus on clinical training. The college is known for its dedication to student success and offers personalized attention and support throughout the program.
Cost of Surgical Tech Certification Programs
The cost of surgical tech programs varies depending on the institution and whether you're enrolling in a certificate or degree program. On average, tuition can range from $5,000 to $30,000 for a degree program, with certificate programs typically being more affordable. Many schools offer financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and federal student loans.
Career Opportunities for Surgical Techs
Once you’ve earned your certification, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the healthcare field. Surgical techs are needed in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and even in physician’s offices. Additionally, the demand for surgical technologists is expected to grow by 7% from 2020 to 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Surgical techs enjoy competitive salaries, with an average salary of approximately $50,000 per year, though this can increase depending on experience, location, and additional certifications.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Career Today
If you’re ready to start a career in healthcare and are interested in working in a fast-paced, rewarding environment, pursuing a surgical tech certification is a great option. By enrolling in one of the top surgical tech programs listed above, you can gain the skills and credentials needed to begin working as a surgical technologist.
Start your journey today by researching programs and finding the one that best fits your needs, and soon you’ll be on your way to a successful and fulfilling career as a certified surgical technologist.