About Surgical Technologists
What is a surgical technologist?
Surgical Technologists are critical members of the surgical team who support and assist surgeons and nurses, while also providing patient care, as needed. They typically work in hospitals and have attained an associate degree and the necessary training to become a surgical technologist.
What does a surgical technologist do?
Surgical Technologists may perform a variety of duties while on the job. Some of these may include (but are not limited to):
- Prepare and count materials and instruments before and after operations.
- Assist surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare staff in the operating room.
- Prepare, care for, and dispose of tissue specimens gathered for lab testing.
- Prepare dressings and bandages.
- Apply or assist with the application of dressing or bandages after surgery.
- Order and maintain surgical supplies.
- Observe the vital signs and physical conditions of the patient.
- Maintain files and records.
- Maintain a sterile field during surgical procedures.
- Wash and sterilize equipment.
- Hand instruments and supplies to surgeons during procedures.
- Perform duties as instructed by surgeons in the operating room.
What is the career outlook for surgical technologists?
According to the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of Surgical Assistants and Technologists is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, which is as fast as average for all occupations. (1) According to the State of Michigan DTMB, Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives, employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 7.3% from 2020 to 2030. (2)
Becoming a Surgical Technologist
How do I become a surgical technologist?
Surgical technologists typically earn an associate degree and attend school for 2-years. During their education, they’ll likely learn more about topics such as microbiology and pathology (among others). They’ll also take specialized courses that are specific to their career. These classes may cover topics such as instrumentation and surgical procedures. As part of their training, surgical tech students will also likely participate in some sort of clinical training. Once a student has graduated from their program, they may go on to challenge a certification exam. While becoming certified may not be required in every instance in order to obtain employment, it can make a student stand out from other candidates.
How long is a surgical tech program?
Surgical Tech programs are typically two years in length and award students an associate degree after successfully completing their program and training.
What are the requirements to be a surgical tech?
In order to become a surgical tech, one should pursue the necessary training and education. In addition, while it may not be required in all instances, students/graduates are advised to pursue certification as well. There are a few qualities that surgical techs should possess. These include attention to detail, good communication and listening skills, stamina, dexterity, the ability to effectively manage stress, and integrity
Dorsey College’s Surgical Technologist program
What will be covered in the program?
The Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program at Dorsey College is comprised of general education courses that will help set a solid foundation for students. The program also includes specialized courses in surgical technology, all designed to prepare future surgical techs for success in the workplace.
In addition, our program has been skillfully designed to layer in clinical training throughout. This happens during the Practicum courses. These courses allow students to observe surgical procedures in real time. They also have a chance to apply the knowledge and skills they learned in a hands-on environment. In addition, at the end of the program, students will take part in a Capstone course where they will be able to prepare for a certification exam.
Is your program hands-on?
Yes! In addition to opportunities where students can learn in the classroom, the clinical setting (Surgical Practicum courses) provides students with real-life situations where there are opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned.
What is clinical training and why is it important?
The clinical training takes places during three courses throughout the program where students will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned during their classes in real-life situations.
How long is the program?
The Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program is designed to be completed in two years. Students who successfully complete the program are awarded an associate degree.
Is this program available in a hybrid format?
Yes. The Dorsey College Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology is delivered in hybrid format. This means that you’ll have some of your classes online delivered via distance education. You will come to campus for other classes to benefit from hands-on training. The clinical training in the program is also held on-site at assigned clinical locations. The hybrid format allows our students even more flexibility in pursuing their degree and completing their training.
Why should I choose Dorsey College over another school?
Which Dorsey College campuses offer the Surgical Technologist program?
The Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program is offered at the following Dorsey College campus location:
Roseville, MI (A branch campus of Madison Heights)
Will your program prepare me for certification?
Yes, the Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program at Dorsey College is designed to prepare students to challenge a certification exam. Dorsey College encourages all graduates to challenge applicable certification exams, as they can assist in obtaining and maintaining gainful employment. However, Dorsey College makes no guarantee of an individual’s successful outcome on a certification exam or their ability to gain recognition from any certifying agency or body.
Does your program include certification?
While actual certification is not included in the program, the Dorsey College Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program is designed to prepare students to challenge a certification exam. In addition, Dorsey College will pay the cost, one time, for graduates of this program to challenge a certification exam selected by Dorsey College upon the graduate completing the program-specific exam preparation requirements.
What is the tuition and fees for the program?
The current tuition and fees for the Dorsey College Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program can be accessed by clicking here.
Is Financial Aid available?
Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. For additional information on Financial Aid and Tuition Assistance, we would encourage you to visit our Financial Aid Information page.
Can you help me find a job after graduation?
Dorsey College offers Career Services assistance to all program completers, however, job placement is not guaranteed by Dorsey College. You can learn more about the assistance our Career Services team offers by visiting our Career Services for Students and Graduates page.
Additional Information
- (1) Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Surgical Assistants and Technologists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/surgical-technologists.htm (visited December 31, 2023).
- (2) Michigan DTMB, Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives, Long-Term Occupational Employment Projections (2020-2030) Michigan Statewide, Surgical Technologists (SOC Code: 29-2055), https://www.milmi.org/_docs/publications/projectionsdata/LongTerm_OccupationProj_2030_Michigan.xlsx (visited January 9, 2024).
