Surgical Technology

Program Overview

student looking at surgery tools

The Surgical Technology, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree at Delgado Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).  Upon completion of the program, the student will be qualified to sit for the web-based national certification examination administered by the NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology/Surgical Assisting).

Surgical Technologist's typically perform the following duties:

  • Prepare operating rooms for surgery
  • Maintain a sterile environment during surgery
  • Use Universal Precautions at all times while in the surgery suite
  • Assist surgeons during surgery by passing and/or retracting instruments and other sterile supplies
  • Adhere to hospital policy and procedure as it relates to sterilization and decontamination.

The Surgical Technology Program is a 16 month full-time commitment of combined clinical and didactic education. Through a selective admission process, classes are year-round, 4 consecutive semesters, with education being obtained in every semester at the college. Upon completion of the program, the student will be qualified to sit for the national certification examination administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

Admissions

Frequently Asked Questions

Official Program Description in the College Catalog

surg tech students

Accreditation

The Surgical Technology Certificate program is accredited by:

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
25400 US Highway 19 N.,  Suite 158
Clearwater, FL 33763
Phone: (727) 210-2350
Fax: (727) 210-2354

This accreditation allows program graduates to apply for the certification examination administered by the National Board on Surgical Technology/Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

Program Mission

The mission of the Surgical Technology Program is to provide a learning centered environment and comprehensive education to students from diverse backgrounds to attain their educational career and personal goals, to think critically, to demonstrate leadership, and to be productive and responsible citizens in the allied health/medical community.

Employment Opportunities

The employment outlook for surgical technologists is excellent and demand is growing much faster than average for all occupations. Career search and professional inquiries, however, are the responsibility of the student. 

Program Effectiveness Data (2017-2019)

Year Pass Rate for National CST Exam Graduation Rate Employment Rate

2019

100%

61%

100%

 2018

 96%

82%

 95%

 2017

 97%

 83%

 100%