Health Care Tag (6-9 Months)

Surgical Technologist Certification

Train to Be the Right Hand in the Operating Room

Surgical Technologists are critical members of the surgical team. They prepare operating rooms, ensure instruments are sterile, and assist surgeons and nurses during life-saving procedures. This program equips you with the technical skills, clinical experience, and certification preparation needed to enter one of the most respected allied health professions.

---

Program Highlights

Feature	Detail
Duration	~12 months (full-time, hybrid model)
Weekly Commitment	~25–30 hours
Format	Hybrid: online lecture, in-person lab training, and surgical clinical rotations
Certifications Offered	Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam eligibility
Clinical Rotations	Extensive hands-on experience in approved hospitals and surgical centers
Compliance	Meets state and national standards; students must pass background check, drug screen, and meet health clearance (immunizations, CPR certification)

---

What You’ll Learn

• Human anatomy, physiology, and surgical terminology
• Surgical instrumentation, sterile technique, and infection control
• Operating room setup and surgical environment management
• Patient positioning, draping, and safety standards
• Surgical procedures across specialties: general, OB/GYN, orthopedic, cardiovascular, and more
• Instrument handling, passing, and anticipation of surgical team needs
• Medical ethics, patient confidentiality, and HIPAA compliance

---

Outcomes & Career Path

Graduates of this program are prepared to:

• Sit for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam through NBSTSA
• Qualify for employment in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and specialty clinics
• Support surgical teams in a variety of specialties — from trauma to orthopedics to cardiovascular care
• Build a pathway to advanced surgical or healthcare leadership roles

---

Financial Aid & Funding Options

Graduate America makes this career path accessible through:

• WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding
• Federal and state financial aid, including Pell Grants (if eligible)
• MyCAA tuition assistance for military spouses
• Institutional scholarships and workforce development grants

---

Exams & Certifications

• Primary Exam: Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential through NBSTSA
• Certification requires graduation from an accredited program and completion of all clinical rotation requirements
• Exam fees may be covered by eligible funding sources

---

Admission Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Background check, drug screen, immunizations, and CPR certification required before clinical rotations
• Reliable internet access and computer for hybrid coursework
• Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and communication skills recommended

---

Career Outlook & Salary

• Job Growth: Surgical Technologist roles are projected to grow faster than average due to rising surgical procedures and healthcare expansion
• Employers: Hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, specialty practices, and trauma centers
• Estimated Earnings: Surgical Technologists in Georgia typically earn from the mid-$40,000s to $55,000+, with potential for higher earnings in specialty areas and with experience

---

Enrollment

• Multiple start dates throughout the year
• Hybrid model allows online study combined with supervised clinical rotations
• Dedicated clinical placement coordinators ensure students gain real-world surgical experience

Do I need prior medical experience to become a Surgical Technologist?

...