Best Surgical Tech Programs for a Career in Healthcare of 2024
The best surgical tech programs cover human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and safe surgical practices. They also provide opportunities for hands-on learning through labs, internships, and field placements.
Learn about the best surgical technologist programs of 2024, along with practical information about the career path. Use it to launch your search for a surgical tech program that matches your professional development goals.
Popular Online Healthcare Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Surgical Tech Programs for a Career in Healthcare
Roane State Community College
Harriman, TN- 2 year
- Online
- In-State$4,326
- Out-of-state$17,230
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,775
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Mt Hood Community College
- Gresham, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,248
- Out-of-state$8,604
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,893
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
Madisonville Community College
- Madisonville, KY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,296
- Out-of-state$15,048
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,239
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma City Community College
- Oklahoma City, OK
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,025
- Out-of-state$8,776
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,388
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
Did You Know…
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 6% growth in surgical technologist jobs between 2023 and 2033 — that’s 6,500 new jobs.
Top industries for surgical techs include general and medical hospitals, doctor’s offices, and outpatient care centers.
What is a Surgical Technologist?
Also known as operating room technicians, surgical technologists prepare operating rooms and assist surgeons during procedures. They mainly work in hospitals and outpatient care centers alongside surgeons, physicians, and nurses.
One way to understand their role is to consider what surgical technologists do before, during, and after surgeries.
| Before a Procedure | During a Procedure | After a Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Sterilize the operating room | Maintain sterile conditions in the operating room | Perform a second equipment audit to ensure the integrity of all tools that were used |
| Perform an equipment audit to ensure all necessary tools are ready | Hand required tools to the surgeon or medical assistants when requested | Dispose of biohazardous waste and contaminated materials |
| Assist the patient as needed | Aid the medical staff in removing and securing bodily tissues from patients | Assist the medical staff in placing sterile dressings on the patient’s surgical wounds |
How to Choose A Surgical Tech Program
The best surgical tech programs emphasize the specialized knowledge and skills surgical technicians need to excel at their jobs. You may want to also prioritize these factors when weighing your program options:
Program Cost
Your program’s cost plays a major role in determining the long-term returns on your educational investment. When assessing costs, note that lower does not always mean better. If you can land a higher-paying job by attending a higher-priced program with a better reputation, the extra investment will pay off.
Program Length
When assessing length, remember that shorter and longer programs both have unique advantages and drawbacks. Shorter programs may be cheaper, and they can get you into the workforce more quickly. On the down-side, they may move at a fast pace or cover certain topics in less detail.
Longer programs may cost more but require a greater time commitment. They may also provide deeper, more detailed coverage of essential skills and proficiencies. As a result, you could be better prepared for your job, qualify for better-paying roles, and perform at a higher level.
Program Format
Format options include online, face-to-face, and hybrid learning. Online programs offer convenience and scheduling flexibility, but traditional campus-based programs are more interactive touch and have easier access to instructors. Hybrid programs blend the two formats.
You should carefully consider if the program offers practical training. Hands-on lab work, internships, and field training can dramatically improve your development. These program features are only available in person.
Curriculum
When comparing curricula, look specifically at the technical skills and proficiencies each program develops. Some of the best surgical technician programs offer specialization opportunities in cardiology, neurosurgery, or orthopedics.
Admissions Requirements
Carefully review each program’s admission requirements to ensure you are a good candidate.
Programs with stricter admission requirements tend to be more selective. Students often equate selectivity with higher program quality. However, remember that selective schools are not always better. In some cases, the school may simply have more applicants than slots for incoming students.
