Surgical Technology

Surgical technologists (STs) are integral members of the surgical team who work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel. Before, during and after surgery, they deliver patient care and perform tasks that help ensure a safe surgical environment, contributing to and supporting the operating team's efficiency.

The role of a surgical technologist includes setting up the operating room, preparing surgical instruments and assisting in their use, and preparing patients for surgery. The technologist has primary responsibility for maintaining the sterile field, ensuring that all members of the operating team adhere to aseptic technique, and preparing and applying sterile dressings following procedures.

STs are employed in hospital operating rooms, delivery rooms, cast rooms, emergency departments and clinics. The employment outlook for this occupational area is very good.

Coursework includes both classroom and clinical instruction. Multiple clinical sites are used to expose students to a variety of surgical settings. Successful completion of the program results in the award of a certificate and, with additional general education coursework, an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. Successful completion of the program also permits the graduate to sit for the national certifying examination. 

The Surgical Technology certificate program is an intensive one-year, three semester curriculum with classroom and clinical experiences.  Students are required to have their own transportation to clinical sites. Clinical sites are assigned to meet the needs of both the students and the program. The assignments are the decision of the program coordinator. The number of applicants admitted to the CST program is limited by the availability of clinical sites. To be considered for admission, applicants must complete the minimum prerequisites listed in the packet. Selection for admission is competitive and is determined by a point system based on categories such as GPS on prerequisites, reading and writing placement scores, quality of written goal letters, previous college degree,  date $50.00 non-refundable application fee is received (the earlier the application, the more points that will be awarded), and successful completion of the Central Processing Distribution Technician course (CSPD 1111) with a B or higher.

Accreditation Status

The Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. 

Accreditation Information

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Outcomes Assessment Exam Results

20 Surgical Technology graduates sat for the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) exam and 19 passed, which is a 95% pass rate.  

Gainful Employment Information

View information about this program, including estimated cost and employment opportunities.

• Surgical Assistant
• Surgical Technology

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If you are interested in learning more about this program, please

1. 1. Attend an advising session
                   and/or
   2. Visit a Health Career Program Advisor by calling (630) 942-2259 to make an appointment.
   3. For information or general inquiries, please send an email to healthcareadvising@cod.edu. (Please use above phone number only to schedule an appointment. Do not send an appointment request to this email).

Feedback/compliments/concerns regarding this Health Science Program. For general inquiries, please use contact information listed above.