Surgical Technology – Associate in Applied Science
The Surgical Technology Program is an Associate Degree Completion Program. Successful completion of the course of studies meets the qualifying standards required to take the National Certification Examination for Surgical Technologists. These certifying examinations are written and administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
The program is designed to prepare the student for employment in the field of surgical technology and to prepare competent entry-level surgical technologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and Affective (behavior) learning domains). Surgical technology positions are located within hospitals, surgical centers, and private practices. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to apply for certification exams through the National board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
Successful completion of the program is established as completing the following:
- Complete a minimum of 60 credits in approved course work.
- Complete a minimum of 280 clinical hours or maximum of 640 clinical hours at the clinical site placement.
- Complete 120 cases in various specialties with a minimum of 30 surgical cases in general surgery during clinical hours.
- Meet the Jackson College Surgical Technology program minimum level for reading, English, and mathematics or successfully complete the prescribed remediation.
- Achieve and maintain a GPA of 2.0 (minimum 70%) or higher in all program specific courses.
- Be classified as a degree-seeking student.
There are special admission requirements to the surgical technology program, and it is the student’s responsibility to understand the requirements and adhere to them. Entry into a program is competitive and based on a “point system.” Point values are based on grades earned in prerequisite coursework and the interview process.
The student should recognize that the clinical orientation of the Surgical Technology Program demands that attitude, work habits, communication skills, and manual dexterity are evaluated along with academic readiness.
General education prerequisites and related requirement courses must be completed before admission to the program.
Minimum credits: 60
Minimum grade in all courses: 2.0
Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0
Minimum grade in BIO 132 OR BIO 253/254: 2.5
Minimum grade in SUR 101: 3.0
Minimum Jackson College credits: 15
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
GEO 1: Write clearly, concisely and intelligibly
Take the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ENG 131 | Writing Experience I | 3 | ENG 085 and ENG 091 | ||
This is an intensive writing course. Narrative and descriptive modes are stressed. Basic research strategies are introduced. An end-of-the-semester portfolio is required. |
GEO 2: Recognize the importance of equity and inclusion in a diverse society
Take the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
COM 250 | Intercultural Communication | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
(Students cannot receive credit for both COM 250 and COM 350) This course will explore how diverse cultural orientations influence the way we perceive and interact with an increasingly culturally diverse world. We will discuss the causes of intercultural conflicts in different communication settings (interpersonal, small group, school, workplace and global) and how to manage them effectively. |
GEO 3: Demonstrate computational skills and mathematical reasoning
Take the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MAT 130 | Quantitative Reasoning | 4 | MAT 030 | ||
Quantitative Reasoning develops student skills in analyzing, synthesizing and communicating quantitative information. Cultivates algebraic reasoning and modeling skills through a quantitative literacy lens. Emphasizes critical thinking and the use of multiple strategies in applied contexts. Topics include proportional and statistical reasoning, probability, and evaluation of bias and validity. |
GEO 4: Demonstrate scientific reasoning
Choose one of the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BIO 132 | Human Biology | 4 | ENG 085* and MAT 020* or higher | ||
Students focus on the structure and function of the human body, the unity and diversity of life, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the principles and processes of evolution as well as contemporary issues that relate to biology. Course includes a laboratory component which focuses on human anatomy. |
|||||
BIO 253 and 254 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II | 8 | |||
Human Anatomy and Physiology I Human Anatomy and Physiology II |
GEO 5: Understand human behavior and social systems, and the principles which govern them
Take the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
PSY 140 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
Overview of the field of psychology, including learning, development, emotion, motivation, personality, abnormal behavior and psychotherapy. |
GEO 6: Understand and appreciate aesthetic experience and artistic creativity.
Choose one of the following:
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ART 111 | Art History: Prehistoric to 1400 | 3 | ENG 085, ENG 091 | ||
This course is a survey of art history and aesthetics covering art and architecture from prehistoric times to 1400. |
|||||
ART 112 | Art History: Renaissance to Present | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
This course is a survey of art history and aesthetics covering art from the Renaissance through the 20th century. |
|||||
ENG 210 | Introduction to Film | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students are introduced to film as a visual art and to basic film terms and techniques, such as composition, movement, editing and sound. Readings in film history, genre, theory and criticism. Includes JC Winter Film Series. |
|||||
ENG 246 | Short Story & Novel | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students are introduced to traditional and contemporary fictional genres. This course emphasizes understanding, appreciation and the critical analysis of narrative art. Selections for study are chosen from English and American literature as well as world literature in translation. |
|||||
ENG 247 | Poetry & Drama | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students are introduced to lyric and dramatic genres. This course emphasizes understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of poetry and theatre as language performances and literary forms. Selections for study are chosen from English and American literature as well as world literature in translation. |
|||||
ENG 249 | African-American Literature | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Survey of the literature of African-American writers. Emphasis is on the major writers in narrative, poetry, fiction, essay and drama. |
|||||
ENG 252 | Shakespeare | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students read representative plays and are introduced to the Elizabethan world. Course emphasizes developing understanding, appreciation and critical analysis skills. |
|||||
ENG 254 | Childrens Literature | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students survey the various genres of childrens literature from a critical point of view. Course emphasizes developing student competency in oral reading and presentation of childrens literature. |
|||||
ENG 256 | American Literature-20th Century | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 131 | ||
Students examine the literature and culture of America from 1890 to the present, with emphasis on the development of organic and post-modern writing in narrative, poetic and critical modes. |
|||||
HUM 131 | Cultural Connections | 3 | ENG 085 and ENG 091 | ||
This interdisciplinary course examines contemporary issues, their human and technological components, and their historical precedents through art, music, literature and philosophy. |
|||||
MUS 131 | Understanding Music | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
Lecture and directed listening on the elements, forms and historic chronology of Western music. |
|||||
THR 116 | Introduction to Theatre | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
Survey of Western theatre and drama. Appreciation of theatre through understanding of historical development and societal function. Theatre architecture, production, costuming and acting styles, and the artists who create them. |
RELATED REQUIREMENTS
Take the following
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
HOC 110 | Advanced First Aid & American Heart CPR | 2 | |||
This course provides instruction in adult, child and infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as well as advanced first aid. It is designed to prepare an individual to handle medical or accidental emergencies until professional help arrives or until the victim can seek help, and to handle minor injuries that do not require professional assistance. Upon successful completion of this course, the student is qualified to receive CPR and Advanced First Aid certificates through the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS). |
|||||
MOA 112 | Medical Law and Ethics | 3 | CIS 095* and ENG 090* | ||
Principles and concepts of medical law and bioethics, as well as an overview of health care financing through third party payers are the main focus of this course. Topics include: medical practice management, medical law, liability and malpractice prevention, health information management, HIPAA and confidentiality of patient information, employment practices, consent, billing collections, insurance and government healthcare programs, codes of ethics and contemporary bioethical issues. |
|||||
MOA 120 | Medical Terminology | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
A programmed learning word building system approach is used to teach basic medical terminology word roots, prefixes, suffixes, language origins, plural formation and grammar rules are studied. Emphasis is placed on word building, definitions, spelling, usage, pronunciation and acceptable medical abbreviations. |
|||||
SUR 101 | Introduction to Surgical Technology and Professional Labs Practices | 5 | |||
This course is designed specifically for entry-level job training and is a combination of classroom studies and lab practice. This course is designed to offer education on an introduction to the operating room and the role of the surgical technologist in order to prepare for competent and safe patient care. |
CORE REQUIREMENTS
Take the following
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BIO 220 | Microbiology | 4 | ENG 085* and MAT 020* or higher | ||
Basic structure and function of microorganisms with special emphasis on recent advances in microbiology, pathogens, disease, control and immunity. Strong biology background recommended. Course includes a laboratory component. |
|||||
SUR 101 | Introduction to Surgical Technology and Professional Labs Practices | 5 | |||
This course is designed specifically for entry-level job training and is a combination of classroom studies and lab practice. This course is designed to offer education on an introduction to the operating room and the role of the surgical technologist in order to prepare for competent and safe patient care. |
|||||
SUR 102 | Surgical Procedures I | 6 | |||
SUR 103 | Surgical Procedures II | 6 | |||
SUR 120 | Surgical PHARM and Anesthesia | 3 | |||
SUR 121 | Surgical Anatomy and Physiology | 3 | |||
SUR 160 | Surgical Clinical I | 4 | |||
SUR 161 | Surgical Clinical II | 4 | |||
SUR 165 | Surgical Technology Seminar | 4 |
The following is a sample course map for informational purposes and will not suit every student’s situation. A detailed, individualized course map will be created when a student meets with their Student Success Navigator.
FALL SEMESTER
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BIO 132 | Human Biology | 4 | ENG 085* and MAT 020* or higher | ||
Students focus on the structure and function of the human body, the unity and diversity of life, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the principles and processes of evolution as well as contemporary issues that relate to biology. Course includes a laboratory component which focuses on human anatomy. |
|||||
MAT 130 | Quantitative Reasoning | 4 | MAT 030 | ||
Quantitative Reasoning develops student skills in analyzing, synthesizing and communicating quantitative information. Cultivates algebraic reasoning and modeling skills through a quantitative literacy lens. Emphasizes critical thinking and the use of multiple strategies in applied contexts. Topics include proportional and statistical reasoning, probability, and evaluation of bias and validity. |
|||||
MOA 120 | Medical Terminology | 3 | ENG 085* | ||
A programmed learning word building system approach is used to teach basic medical terminology word roots, prefixes, suffixes, language origins, plural formation and grammar rules are studied. Emphasis is placed on word building, definitions, spelling, usage, pronunciation and acceptable medical abbreviations. |
|||||
SUR 101 | Introduction to Surgical Technology and Professional Labs Practices | 5 | |||
This course is designed specifically for entry-level job training and is a combination of classroom studies and lab practice. This course is designed to offer education on an introduction to the operating room and the role of the surgical technologist in order to prepare for competent and safe patient care. |
SPRING SEMESTER
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BIO 220 | Microbiology | 4 | ENG 085* and MAT 020* or higher | ||
Basic structure and function of microorganisms with special emphasis on recent advances in microbiology, pathogens, disease, control and immunity. Strong biology background recommended. Course includes a laboratory component. |
|||||
HOC 110 | Advanced First Aid & American Heart CPR | 2 | |||
This course provides instruction in adult, child and infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as well as advanced first aid. It is designed to prepare an individual to handle medical or accidental emergencies until professional help arrives or until the victim can seek help, and to handle minor injuries that do not require professional assistance. Upon successful completion of this course, the student is qualified to receive CPR and Advanced First Aid certificates through the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS). |
|||||
SUR 102 | Surgical Procedures I | 6 | |||
SUR 120 | Surgical PHARM and Anesthesia | 3 | |||
SUR 121 | Surgical Anatomy and Physiology | 3 |
SUMMER SEMESTER
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
COM 250 | Intercultural Communication | 3 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
(Students cannot receive credit for both COM 250 and COM 350) This course will explore how diverse cultural orientations influence the way we perceive and interact with an increasingly culturally diverse world. We will discuss the causes of intercultural conflicts in different communication settings (interpersonal, small group, school, workplace and global) and how to manage them effectively. |
|||||
GEO 6 | Select course from GEO 6 list | 3 | |||
SUR 103 | Surgical Procedures II | 6 | |||
SUR 160 | Surgical Clinical I | 4 |
FALL SEMESTER
Course # | Course Name | Credits | Prerequisites | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ENG 131 | Writing Experience I | 3 | ENG 085 and ENG 091 | ||
This is an intensive writing course. Narrative and descriptive modes are stressed. Basic research strategies are introduced. An end-of-the-semester portfolio is required. |
|||||
MOA 112 | Medical Law and Ethics | 3 | CIS 095* and ENG 090* | ||
Principles and concepts of medical law and bioethics, as well as an overview of health care financing through third party payers are the main focus of this course. Topics include: medical practice management, medical law, liability and malpractice prevention, health information management, HIPAA and confidentiality of patient information, employment practices, consent, billing collections, insurance and government healthcare programs, codes of ethics and contemporary bioethical issues. |
|||||
PSY 140 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | ENG 085* and ENG 090* | ||
Overview of the field of psychology, including learning, development, emotion, motivation, personality, abnormal behavior and psychotherapy. |
|||||
SUR 161 | Surgical Clinical II | 4 | |||
SUR 165 | Surgical Technology Seminar | 4 |