Surgical Technologist Training & Certification Program - MedCerts

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ST 3000

Surgical Technologist

Career Training

Work alongside and assist surgeons, nurses, and other members of the healthcare team throughout a surgical operation. This program has additional enrollment requirements. Please review these requirements and ensure eligibility prior to submitting information.

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18  Weeks
Program Length
Certification
$39,589
Avg. Starting Salary*
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Issuing Authority

This program is NOT available to residents of the following states: AR, CT, ID, MA, ND, NV, NY, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI

Please review our State Restriction page to view what restrictions there may be in your state/region of residence or employment and ensure you are eligible for enrollment. These restrictions may not apply to students taking programs through an employer, academic or government-sponsored model - including MyCAA and Army, Air Force or Coast Guard Credentialing Assistance. To determine eligibility, please confirm with your sponsor or review our military spouse MyCAA-approved or Military Credentialing Assistance-approved programs.

Watch our Surgical Technologist Program Sneak Peek!

MedCerts programs are developed with collaboration from our in-house production team, industry-recognized subject matter experts and our education technology design team. From interactive simulations, interviews with real world experts, game based learning and more, our Instructional Design education model is created to meet the needs of every type of learner.

Surgical Technologist Program You Tube

Is Surgical Technologist For You? Take The MedCerts Online Career Training Readiness Quiz

This fun, online quiz takes just 3 minutes to complete and provides you with a personalized report to find out if short-term online career training is right for you. The report identifies your strengths and social style, plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.

Certified Surgical Technologist Training Online

MedCerts Tuition Advantage

We believe everyone should have access to higher education. With the option to pay in full, break down payments or utilize government grant funding, we help expand that access.

Monthly Payment Options as low as $346 Payment Plans for Every Student

Talk with an Education Consultant to pick the perfect payment plan, from paying in full to installments with interest rates from 0-12%.

Total Tuition $4,000 Pay in Full

The total tuition can be paid immediately or through a number of grant-funded or monthly payment plan options.

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No Credit Check

Discover your eligibility without a credit check.

The pricing listed above for a monthly payment plan is an estimate for the cost of an 12-month payment plan including down payment. Final pricing is given at time of purchase and may vary from both pricing examples above.

MyCAA, Army Credentialing Assistance and Workforce Grants

MedCerts offers financial aid options through these government grant-funded programs – MyCAA, Workforce Funding (including WIOA) and Army Credentialing Assistance (Army CA). Those eligible include Military Spouses, active duty Army, Reserves and National Guard members, or workforce- funded qualifying job seekers. Speak to an Education Consultant to see if you qualify.

What Does a Surgical Technologist Do?

The role of a Surgical Technologist is to prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, prepare patients, and assist doctors during surgeries. They have the unique opportunity to interact with patients prior to (pre), during (intra), and after (post) surgical procedures. Before surgery, a techs assemble the necessary surgical equipment and ensures all devices are in working order. Techs prepare patients for surgery by positioning, draping, washing and disinfecting the incision site. During an operation, they will pass sterile instruments and supplies to surgeons. They maintain asepsis during surgery, anticipating the surgeon's needs while remaining attentive to all aspects of the surgical procedure to ensure a safe environment for the patient. They might hold retractors or set up robotic surgical equipment. After surgery, techs often dress the incision site, transport patients to their recovery rooms, and restock the operating room with supplies and equipment.

80,402
Entry Level Jobs in the US
According to Burning Glass jobs data, Phlebotomy Technicians will see available jobs grow 6.3% over the next ten years.
All available job and salary information is from Burning Glass Labor Insights and is updated annually to reflect industry changes.

What You’ll Learn
ST 3000
Surgical Technologist

Surgical Technologists, also called Operating Room Technicians, work alongside, and assist surgeons, nurses, and other members of the health care team throughout a surgical operation. This high-earning job is a great opportunity to enter the healthcare industry and work in a fast-paced, stimulating environment. But, this role is not for the faint of heart. Surgical Techs are exposed to intense sights, smells and sounds, and must remain calm in high-stress, life-or-death scenarios. Individuals interested in this program must be prepared to work in these non-traditional environments.

The MedCerts Surgical Technologist program provides students with immersive and virtual hands-on learning experiences. Surgical procedures are demonstrated using virtual tools or live-recorded video and are simulated – allowing the student to immerse him/herself into a virtual experience that is engaging, safe, and repeatable.

This program prepares students to become Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Professionals who earn the NCCT designation have the clinical skills and knowledge for maintaining asepsis during surgery, anticipating the surgeon’s needs, and remaining attentive to all aspects of the surgical procedure to ensure a safe environment for the patient.

This program contains a clinical requirement to complete national certification. This clinical requirement consists of case documentation which requires a minimum of 125 surgical cases including a minimum of 30 scrubs in general surgery (with a maximum of 50) and a minimum of 75 scrubs in at least 3 (three) of the following areas [Gynecology; Obstetrics; Otorhinolaryngology 5; Genitourinary; Thoracic; Plastic/Reconstructive; Cardiovascular; Ophthalmology; Other; Neurosurgery; Peripheral Vascular]. At least 90 of the 125 cases must be 1st scrub cases. MedCerts students must complete these clinical hours before attempting to take the Tech in Surgery - Certified national certification exam issued through the NCCT. Students enrolling through an Employer or Academic Sponsored program are not required to complete clinical elements before attempting the certification exam.

While MedCerts does not guarantee clinical placement, we offer resources and a clinical team is available to support students from the very beginning of your program.

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  1. Maintain sterile operative fields
  2. Maintain inventory of medical supplies or equipments
  3. Assist healthcare practitioners during surgery
  4. Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis
  5. Sterilize medical equipment or instruments
Surgical Technologist Hero

Enrollment Requirements

  1. Web browser with internet connection
  2. Course registration & payment
  3. Program applicants must meet ONE of the following requirements:
  4. Associate’s degree, or higher
  5. Enrolled in college/university-level degree program related to medical field
  6. Hold current certification in Sterile Processing, or related field.
  7. Min. two (2) yrs related experience: Surgical technology experience not required, but must be w/in clinical/medical/healthcare environment. Direct patient care experience required.
  8. Employer Sponsorship: Sponsorship Acknowledgement form signed by prospective employer agreeing to host graduate for post-program surgical cases (scrubs) as full-time/part-time employee, extern, or apprentice – required to attain TS-C certification.

MedCerts-Covered Materials*

  1. Expert-led video based training
  2. Competency assessments
  3. National Certification exam fee

Student Services

  1. Dedicated Student Success Advisors
  2. Tailored support based on performance & behavior
  3. Exam preparation process
  4. Career Services Advisor

Clinical Requirements

  1. Completed Case Documentation including a minimum of 125 surgical cases, required for full TS-C national certification, issued through the NCCT
  2. Students not enrolled in an employer or academic sponsored program must complete this clinical requirement before attempting the TS-C national certification exam.

*The cost of all materials needed for this program are covered by MedCerts. They are not included in the tuition costs and the student is not liable for any costs or fees related to the above materials.

Required Courses
PS 1011

Professionalism in Allied Health

32 hours
Length
2 Weeks
Duration

This course will benefit anyone considering a career in allied health, as well as those already working in the field. Allied Health Professionals must be committed to the key attributes of professionalism and strive to reflect this within the delivery of patient-centered safe and effective care. “Professionalism” is a broad term that reflects many different skills and abilities. For an individual to exhibit professionalism, he/she must be armed with specific skills and abilities that do not always show up within certification requirements, or even within a career training curriculum. Soft skills are hard to measure and are typically less well-defined than hard skills. However, soft skills are what set many job candidates apart. Professionalism is not just what one knows, it is how one does their job, how one behaves and how one comes across as they interact with others.

The purpose of this course is to provide students with soft skills training that will provide the tools needed to demonstrate a higher level of professionalism on the job. Key components of the course focus on patient interaction, proper office behavior, medical ethics, diversity and cultural bias, emotional strength, professional appearance and communication. The course maintains a focus on the key attributes that are true markers of professionalism.

This course was created with input from healthcare professionals working in the field, healthcare employers that hire our graduates, professional educators and even former MedCerts students. The end result is a collection of modules that touch on the soft skills that are TRULY important in the real world of allied healthcare. In this course, students are engaged through scenario-based learning that allows for real interaction with virtual co-workers and patients. Additionally, game-based activities keep students engaged and entertained throughout their learning journey.

    • Gain an understanding of the expectations of an allied healthcare professional in the workplace
    • Develop and exercise emotional intelligence, self-management and interpersonal skills
    • Build and improve internal and external communication skills with all exchanges
    • Enhance the patient care experience with successful interactions and patient satisfaction
    • Maintain solution-oriented conversations, manage conflict and build self-confidence
HI 1014

Introduction to Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology

96 hours
Length
6 Weeks
Duration

This course is designed to familiarize the student with the language of medicine, through the study of prefixes, suffixes, root words, abbreviation, and pronunciation of words. The curriculum also includes an anatomy and physiology app that enables students to explore, visualize, interact, and experience the anatomy of the human body in 3D and augmented reality (AR). Students will examine the organization of the integumentary, musculoskeletal, hematic, lymphatic and immune, and cardiovascular systems in the human body. They will become familiar with the medical terms that relate to the respiratory, digestive, nervous, endocrine, reproductive, and excretory systems. Students will also examine terms related to the sensory organs, with a concentration on the organs for hearing, sight, and smell. This immersive experience will trigger thought processes and enhance learning outcomes in their Anatomy and Physiology program. The app has about 50 simulations across different topics.

    • Recognize the structure and function of the 11 body systems and their organs
    • Understand the medical language that is used to describe those systems
    • Analyze and understand medical terms by breaking down their word components
    • Appreciate the major diseases and conditions related to the human body
    • Apply your knowledge within the healthcare setting
HI 6016

Surgical Technology

160 hours
Length
10 Weeks
Duration

Surgical Technology is a comprehensive course designed to prepare students to achieve the status of Tech in Surgery ­– Certified. Emphasis is placed on preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative duties and knowledge. This course includes topics related to infection control, use of personal protective equipment, sterile technique, decontamination and sterilization standards, and surgical instrumentation and equipment. It also addresses surgical pharmacology, aspects of medical law related to the healthcare setting, support of the operative patient, and safety in the operating room.

    • Learn the skills and knowledge for the competent, entry-level Surgical Technologist
    • Understand the instrumentation and equipment used in the operating room
    • Develop a strong surgical conscience, accountability, and understanding of actions
    • Instill appropriate ethical, professional, and respectful values while providing patient care
Code Course Duration
PS 1011 2 Weeks
HI 1014 6 Weeks
HI 6016 10 Weeks
Total Program Duration 18 Weeks

Surgical Technologist

Job Opportunities

Surgical Technician

$33,000 – $58,000*
Estimated Salary
Entry-Level

Operating Room Tech

$33,000 – $58,000*
Estimated Salary

Disclaimers

  1. This program is NOT available to residents of the following states: Arkansas, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Dakota, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin
  2. While MedCerts training and related target certifications may be accepted and/or approved by your state of residency, employers reserve the right to dictate prerequisite education, experience, or certification/licensure requirements for their positions. We strongly advise students to research target job posts from area employers and relevant state requirements, barriers, or restrictions before enrollment to ensure eligibility upon graduation.

FAQs for MedCerts' Online Surgical Technologist Certification Course

What is a Surgical Technologist?

A Surgical Technologist, also known as a Surgical Technician or Operating Room Technician, plays a crucial role in the medical field. They are responsible for preparing operating rooms, arranging equipment, sterilizing instruments, and assisting surgeons and nurses during surgical procedures. Their role is vital in ensuring surgeries are conducted safely and efficiently.

What is the career outlook for a Surgical Technologist?

The career outlook for Surgical Technologists is positive. According to industry data, there is an expected growth of 5% over the next ten years in this field, faster than average. This growth is driven by the expanding healthcare industry and the increasing need for surgical services.

What is the salary for a Surgical Technologist?

The salary for a Surgical Technologist varies based on location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility. On average, the starting salary is around $39,589. However, salaries can range significantly, with experienced technologists earning a median pay of $56,350 per year.

How do I become a certified Surgical Technologist, or NCCT TS-C?

To become a surgical technologist and take the Tech in Surgery - Certified (TS-C) exam offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), there are five routes of eligibility:

1. Current High School Student in a Surgical Technology Program (NCCT Authorized)

  • Must be a U.S. high school student.

  • Obtain a provisional certification upon passing the TS-C exam.

  • Submit a copy of the Surgical Technology diploma, certificate of completion, or transcript with graduation date within 60 days of graduation.

  • Complete and submit the TS-C (NCCT) Critical Skills Competency form within two years of graduation.


2. Current Non-High School Student in a Surgical Technology Program (NCCT Authorized)

  • Must be a U.S. high school graduate or hold equivalent credentials (e.g., GED).

  • Submit a copy of the Surgical Technology diploma, certificate, or transcript within 60 days of graduation.

  • Complete and submit the TS-C (NCCT) Critical Skills Competency form within two years of the test date

3. Graduate from an NCCT Authorized School within the Past Five Years
  • Must be a U.S. high school graduate or hold equivalent credentials.

  • Submit a copy of the diploma from the surgical technologist program, certificate, or transcript.

  • Complete and submit the TS-C (NCCT) Critical Skills Competency form within two years of the test date.


4. Experience
  • Must be a U.S. high school graduate or hold equivalent credentials.

  • Three years of verifiable full-time experience as a Surgical Technology practitioner within the past five years.

  • Submit a copy of the high school diploma (or equivalent) and the TS-C (NCCT) Qualification by Experience form completed by the employer.

  • Must have worked three years full-time or equivalent (6240 hours) under the direct supervision of a Certified/Licensed Physician, Primary Care Provider, and/or RN.


5. Military
  • Must be a U.S. high school graduate or hold equivalent credentials.

  • Completed Surgical Technology training or its equivalent during U.S. Military service within the past five years.

  • Provide a copy of a SMART transcript or DD214 showing completion of a formal medical services training program of the U.S. Armed Forces.

  • Complete and submit the TS-C (NCCT) Critical Skill Competency form.

What skills will I learn in your online Surgical Technologist certification training course?

In the MedCerts online Surgical Technologist certification training course, you will learn a range of skills, including:

  • operating room preparation

  • surgical equipment handling

  • patient preparation

  • aseptic techniques

  • assisting surgeons during operations

What are the enrollment requirements for your online Surgical Technologist certification training course?

To enroll in the MedCerts Surgical Technologist certification course, program applicants must meet ONE of the following requirements:

  • Have an associate’s degree, or higher.

  • Be enrolled in a university-level degree program related to the medical field.

  • Hold current certification in Sterile Processing, or related field.

  • Have a minimum of two (2) years related experience (Surgical technology experience not required, but must be within a healthcare environment. Direct patient care experience required).

  • Sponsorship Acknowledgement form signed by prospective employer agreeing to host the graduate for post-program surgical cases (scrubs) as full-time/part-time employee, extern, or apprentice (required to attain TS-C certification).

How much does your online Surgical Technologist certification class cost?

The cost of the MedCerts online Surgical Technologist certification class has a total cost of $4,000. This cost includes the cost of materials and examinations.

Do you offer payment plans for your online Surgical Technologist certification program?

MedCerts offers various payment plans for the Surgical Technologist certification program in order to make education accessible for all. These include options for monthly payment plans as low as $346 and government grant funding.

Do you offer any scholarships for your online Surgical Technologist certification course?

MedCerts provides financial aid options through government grant-funded programs designed to support military spouses, active duty military members, and qualifying job seekers. These include:

How long is your online Surgical Technologist certification class?

The MedCerts online Surgical Technologist certification class is an 18-week program.

How is your online Surgical Technologist certification course structured and taught?

The MedCerts Surgical Technologist certification course is structured with a blend of expert-led video training, interactive simulations, and hands-on learning experiences. The course is designed to cater to different learning styles, ensuring a thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of surgical technology.

Do you offer certification exam prep or help for the NCCT TS-C exam?

MedCerts includes exam fees and preparation materials in the program cost. The course is tailored to prepare students for the NCCT TS-C exam, with dedicated resources and support to help students succeed.

What's included in your online Surgical Technologist certification training course?

The MedCerts online Surgical Technologist certification training course includes expert-led video training, competency assessments, and MedCerts-Covered materials including the national certification exam fee. Students also receive support from dedicated Student Success Advisors and Career Services Advisors on behalf of Student Services.

Is your Surgical Technologist certification training course valid nationwide?

The MedCerts Surgical Technologist certification training course is valid in most states. To be eligible for certification by NCCT, the student must reside in a state where MedCerts is licensed or otherwise authorized to operate as a school.

Is your Surgical Technologist certification training program accredited?

MedCerts' programs, including the Surgical Technologist certification training, are designed to meet industry standards and are aligned with the requirements of certification bodies. The MedCerts Surgical Technologist program is approved by the NCCT on a state-by-state basis.

Are there any clinical requirements for receiving your Surgical Technologist certification?

Graduates who pass the TS-C exam must complete CASE DOCUMENTATION within two (2) years of the test date. Case documentation requires a minimum of 125 surgical cases including a minimum of 30 scrubs in general surgery (with a maximum of 50) and a minimum of 75 scrubs in at least 3 (three) of the following areas:

  • Gynecology

  • Obstetrics

  • Otorhinolaryngology 5

  • Genitourinary

  • Thoracic

  • Plastic/Reconstructive

  • Cardiovascular

  • Ophthalmology

  • Neurosurgery

  • Peripheral Vascular

At least 90 of the 125 cases must be 1st scrub cases.

Surgical Technologist