Training Tomorrow's Surgical Technicians and the Path to Professional Health Care

Surgical Technologists work closely with doctors, registered nurses, and other surgical personnel—prepping operating rooms and assisting surgeons and nurses both before and during surgical procedures. As a surgical technologist, you will assist surgeons during medical procedures, provide expertise in setting up the operating room, and ensure that the surgical instruments are properly sterilized and organized. Surgical technologists are vital members of the operating room team, trained to anticipate the surgeon’s needs and assist throughout the procedure.

The Surgical Technology Program and Curriculum

Surgical Technology is a “1 plus 1” degree program that requires one year of general education, followed by three semesters of surgical technology courses and clinicals. In the program, students learn concepts of aseptic technique, instrumentation, surgical procedures, and patient care. You’ll learn anatomy, physiology, medical terminology and essential soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science degree and are eligible to take the national licensure exam by the NBSTSA.

State-of-the-Art Training and Clinical Experience

The Surgical Technology program recently received a new Positioning and Procedure Manikin to simulate the use of surgical tools in a lifelike model. These hyperrealistic skills labs are designed to prepare you for real-world clinical experience and job markets. Clinical sites students attend extend across the state, including hospitals and surgery centers in Rolla, Springfield, and St. Louis. As Jennifer Wall, Surgical Technology Program Director, commented: “Surgical technologists can obtain a position that allows for an accommodating schedule that makes further education possible.”

Career Outlook and Employment Opportunities

Regarding the professional landscape, Jennifer Wall said there are numerous openings in the field, giving surg tech graduates various job opportunities. Most hospitals have more openings than any one program could fill in the next five years. With the nationwide shortage, these programs are an integral part of the community.

Graduates can pursue many areas in health care, including:

• Hospital surgery units
• Outpatient surgery centers
• Labor and delivery
• Dentists or oral surgeons
• Veterinary offices
• Medical Sales Rep
• Sterile Processing Department

Program Performance and Certification Data

The following data highlights the success of various Surgical Technology programs in preparing students for national certification and the workforce:

• East Central College: Reported a perfect pass rate on the certification exam last year and 100 percent job placement over the past decade.
• Saint Paul College: Achieved 100% participation in the AST National Certification exam with a 90% pass rate in 2024.
• North Central Texas College: Reported a 100% certification pass rate for the years 2021, 2023, and 2024.

Admission Requirements and Enrollment

Acceptance into the program is often based on a point system. Students scoring the highest total admission points will be admitted to the AAS Surgical Technology program, and applicants will be ranked according to the priority points total. The program accepts a maximum of 24 students, while remaining candidates will be listed as alternates. To apply, students must provide a completed application, send transcripts, and provide proof of immunizations and titers. After acceptance, attendance of an in-person orientation is required before the program begins.