Skip to content

Surgical Technology

Surgical Technology

Department: Surgical Technology

Program Type: Health Professions


Planning to Transfer? Learn more about the transfer process including the importance of choosing a major and transfer school.

Overview

The role of the Surgical Technologist is to provide quality patient care while preparing the operating room for surgical cases. You'll help maintain a sterile environment and remain next to the patient during surgery. You will pass surgical instruments to the surgeon and anticipate the surgeon's needs—you may even put your hand directly in a patient's body during some surgeries. A career as a surgical technologist is dynamic, requiring strong teamwork skills to assist in the operating room.

The Surgical Technology Program consists of hands-on training at the highest level. You can be confident in your surgical technology education from ECC because our staff and instructors are qualified and supportive. Graduates pass the national certification exam much faster than the national average. Ninety-two percent of the 2023 class passed the NBSTSA's certification exam to become Certified Surgical Technologists on the first attempt.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The job outlook for surgical technologists is positive. Growth is driven by the rising demand for healthcare services and an expanding aging population, leading to more surgical procedures.

Advances in medical technology and surgical techniques are increasing the number of surgeries performed. This trend is expected to create higher demand for surgical technologists. Overall, the outlook for employment as a surgical technologist is promising, with many opportunities for qualified individuals in the coming years.

Refer to Career Coach for more information regarding related occupations and compensation.

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the surgical technology plan of study and course descriptions.

Associate of Applied Science

Basic Vocational Certificate

Getting a Job as a Certified Surgical Technologist

To become a certified surgical technologist from ECC, individuals must complete an associate of applied science degree in surgical technology. These programs typically take two years to complete, including classroom, lab sessions, and clinical training.

After completing a program, individuals must pass a national certification exam to become certified. Once certified, individuals can apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers. They will work under the supervision of surgeons and registered nurses, providing essential support during surgeries.

How long does it take to become a surgical technologist?

For Surgical Technology students, this is a 2-year AAS certification program. Prerequisites for the program include human anatomy and physiology classes, along with a medical terminology course to understand medical terms. ECC will prepare you for this exciting career with a combination of classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences in area hospitals. Students receive career development support, including resume writing, national certification exam preparation (on campus), and job interview skills. Afterward, you'll be prepared for a job as a CST, scrub tech, surgical technologist, or operating room technician. You'll assist medical staff before, during, and after procedures at local hospitals and surgery centers.

What is surgical technology?

Surgical technology is a health care profession that involves assisting surgeons during surgical procedures. Surgical technologists are trained professionals who prepare operating rooms, arrange surgical equipment, and assist surgeons during surgeries.

They also sterilize surgical instruments and maintain a sterile environment in the operating room. To become a qualified certified surgical technologist, a surgical technology associate of applied science degree is required. These programs can typically be completed in two years.

What do surgical technologists do?

A surgical technologist, also known as a surgical tech, plays a critical role in the hospital operating room. They work under surgeons and nurses to prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, and assist during surgical procedures.

They are responsible for ensuring the operating room remains sterile during surgical procedures and assisting surgeons as needed. A surgical technology associate of applied science degree program can be completed in two years.

ECC Student Stories

Surgical tech student Carlee transferred to ECC and found smaller class sizes made her more comfortable in school.

Learn more about Surgical Technology Training at ECC!

Earning a certificate at Elgin Community College can set your career in motion.

Request Information

Are you unemployed or looking for a better career?

ECC is partnering with Kane County WIOA to offer free career training for in-demand jobs. Learn more and see if you qualify.

Learn More

Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Live Chat

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Surgical Technology Program

Building A, Room A131.03
847-214-7018
surgicaltechinfo@elgin.edu