Surgical Technology

Jackson College’s Surgical Technology program prepares students to work alongside surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in the operating room. Students gain the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to maintain a sterile field, handle instruments, and assist during procedures. With classroom instruction and clinical experience, this program leads to an associate degree and prepares graduates for the national certification exam and entry into a high-demand healthcare field.

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Program Options

At Jackson College, we offer a wide range of degrees and certificates designed to help you achieve your educational and career goals. The following options are available within this program.

Surgical Technology

Associate in Applied Science

Prepares students to assist in surgical procedures and become certified surgical technologists.

Program requirements

About the Program

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Surgical Technology at Jackson College provides graduates with the training needed to work in hospitals and surgery centers. The program is designed to prepare students for employment as surgical technologists, sterile processors, or sterile processing managers. The curriculum includes both online coursework and hands-on clinical experience, with a maximum of 640 supervised clinical hours. Students are eligible for early completion after meeting specific competencies and clinical hour requirements. Upon successful completion, students can apply for certification exams through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

The Surgical Technology program is a second admit program, meaning that students must first complete prerequisite courses and meet specific admission requirements before being admitted to the program itself. Admission is competitive and based on a point system that considers grades in prerequisite coursework and the interview process. Applications are due by November 15, and accepted students begin the program in the spring semester.

Assist surgeons and other healthcare professionals during surgical procedures.

Prepare and maintain a sterile operating environment.

Apply knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and pharmacology in clinical settings.

Sample Classes

Introduction to Surgical Technology and Professional Lab Practices

Designed for entry-level job training, this course provides an overview of the surgical technologist’s role and responsibilities, combining classroom learning and lab practice to prepare students for safe, competent patient care in the operating room.

Surgical Procedures I

Introduces surgical anatomy, pathophysiology, and procedures across general, OB/GYN, diagnostic, and plastic surgery. Students gain hands-on experience practicing essential surgical skills in a lab environment.

Surgical Pharmacology and Anesthesia

Covers basic pharmacology and anesthesia principles for surgical patients, including drug classifications, therapeutic use, and safe administration techniques, with emphasis on sterile technique in surgical settings.

Microbiology

Basic structure and function of microorganisms with special emphasis on recent advances in microbiology, pathogens, disease, control, and immunity. Includes a lab component.

Career Outlook

The Surgical Technology – Associate in Applied Science degree prepares students to assist in surgical operations under the supervision of surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists. The program includes classroom, lab, and clinical training to ensure students are workforce-ready upon graduation.

Graduates are prepared for employment in hospitals, surgical centers, and private practices as surgical technologists or sterile processors. With additional experience, some may pursue roles as certified first assistants or surgical technology instructors. Successful completion qualifies students to sit for national certification through the NBSTSA.

Surgical Technologist

Prepares operating rooms, arranges equipment, and assists surgeons during procedures by passing instruments and maintaining a sterile environment.

Sterile Processing Technician

Cleans, sterilizes, and prepares surgical instruments and equipment used in medical procedures and ensures proper inventory control.

Operating Room Assistant

Supports surgical staff by transporting patients, preparing operating rooms, and handling equipment before and after surgery.

Certified First Assistant

(With experience and certification). Assists surgeons during procedures by performing tasks such as tissue handling, exposure, and suturing under supervision.

Pay

Understanding potential earnings is an important part of exploring career options.

$60,610/yr

$40,640

$83,150

Salary estimates are based on data from America’s Career InfoNet and the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Actual earnings vary by location, industry demand, business size, education, and experience. Check local job listings for the most accurate salary information.

Info sessions

FEATURED

Surgical Technology Info Session: In-Person

Justin Whiting Hall, Room 210

October 27

4:00pm – 5:00pm

Surgical Technology Info Session: Virtual

November 12

9:00am – 10:00am

Surgical Technology Info Session: In-Person

November 17

4:00pm – 5:00pm

Surgical Technology Info Session: Virtual

December 10

9:00am – 10:00am

Surgical Technology Info Session: In-Person

December 15

4:00pm – 5:00pm

admission process

This program has additional admission requirements beyond general college enrollment. Learn the steps you need to become a student, including completing prerequisites and meeting program-specific criteria, and start your journey today!

Surgical technology admission process

Program Resources

Access helpful resources to guide you through your program, including important documents, tools, and support materials.

Next Steps

Have Questions?

Are you interested or have questions about this program? Fill out our form to get answers and learn how Jackson College can support your goals.

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Contact Admissions

Want to learn more about Jackson College? Contact Admissions or schedule a virtual or in-person meeting to get personalized guidance, take a campus tour, and explore your next steps.

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Apply to Jackson College

Ready to take the next step? Follow our step-by-step application process to start your journey at Jackson College and turn your goals into reality.

Apply to Jackson College

After you have submitted the Jackson College online application, follow the admissions process to complete any additional program requirements.