Surgical Technology
65-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree
Program Code 10-512-1
The surgical technologist's primary task is to assist the surgeon in the operating room. In this program, develop knowledge in human anatomy, microbiology and medical terminology, and learn to identify and handle surgical instruments and equipment. Spend time in a hospital operating room to apply knowledge and skills in actual surgical conditions.
How Long It Will Take
Depending on course load, full-time students could complete this program in two years.
Start Date
You can begin this program in the fall semester.
How This Program Is Offered
This is offered on campus in a traditional classroom/lab setting. Some hybrid/online classes are available.
What Makes This Program Unique
- Upon program completion, graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
- In 2018 and 2019, WCTC's Surgical Technology program earned a merit award from the NBSTSA for graduates achieving a 100 percent pass rate on the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination.
- Students must complete a minimum of 120 surgical rotation cases prior to graduation, gaining valuable real-world experience.
Courses You'll Take
For the courses you’ll take, semester sequence, pathways and course descriptions, view the program catalog page.
This program requires valid BLS Provider certification. If you are currently certified and need to maintain your status, WCTC also offers a BLS Provider Renewal course.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired. Learn more about credit for prior learning.
Deadlines to Know*
Fall 2021 Start
- Submit application by March 1, 2021
- Complete checklist items by June 1, 2021
Spring 2021 Start
- This program cannot be started in spring.
Summer 2021 Start
- This program cannot be started in summer.
* Application deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.
Steps to Complete the Surgical Technology Program
-
Complete the required admissions steps:
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit official high school transcript.
- Complete placement assessment (Reading and Writing).
Questions? Visit the Admissions page or contact the Office of Admissions | 262.691.5200.
-
Attend virtual New Student Orientation.
-
- Complete your General Studies courses. You must earn a grade of C or better in all general education courses. Have transfer credit? Check out Credit for Prior Learning.
- This program also requires valid BLS Provider certification from the American Heart Association. WCTC offers a BLS Provider Renewal course.
-
In order to begin core courses, you will need to successfully:
- Petition to the Surgical Technology program. The petition window for Surgical Technology is March 15-30, 2021.
- Complete a background check.
After successfully completing these steps and being awarded a seat through the petitioning process, you can begin your core courses.
Financial Aid Eligibility
As a program student, you are eligible to receive:
- Financial aid loans
- Scholarships
- Other forms of assistance
Learn more about financial aid.
Cost
The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive.
Learn more about tuition and fees.
Career Salaries
$48,000 – $66,000 annually
Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.
Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.
Potential Careers
If you are interested in the medical field, enjoy working on a team and have a steady hand, surgical technology might be for you. Those in this field must have a calm nature, and a strong stomach, as they will see operations in progress. Surgical techs must also be adaptable since situations in the operating room can rapidly change.
- Surgical Technologist
- Surgical First Assistant
- Surgical Equipment Sales Representative