Surgical Technology (AAS)
Download as PDF
College
Program CIP Code
The Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program is designed to prepare students for a career as a surgical technologist. The program of study will introduce students to the basics of surgical technology and will include a practicum providing the student with a hands-on experience in the operating room. The technology courses will give students additional skills to enhance their advancement in the surgical environment.
The curriculum is also designed to give students a general education knowledge base which will complement their skills in the major subject areas. Additionally, the curriculum is also designed to prepare the student for the surgical technology national certifying examination which will be administered as part of the core curriculum.
The program has entered into a consortium agreement with the University Online campus located at the main campus in Virginia Beach. The agreement enables Arts and Science and Self Integration courses to be delivered asynchronously online. The agreement has zero impact on employment or licensure and there are no additional costs incurred. This program consists of 1,505 contact hours.
About Surgical Technology
An entry level surgical technologist is able to act as a “primary scrub” in a variety of surgical procedures, and he or she can participate in all aspects of the operating room experience.
Requirements include negative drug screen, clear criminal background check, Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification preferred; proof of immunizations/immunity to common communicable diseases (HepB; Td; MMR; Varicella; TB; etc); physical examination and CPR certification.
Students must have good manual dexterity, the ability to lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds, the ability to stand for more than 4 hours, and good eyesight with the ability to distinguish colors.
Graduates are eligible for employment as a surgical technologist in hospital based and ambulatory surgical centers.
Recommended Certifications
Certification requirements for employment vary from state to state and are required in the state of Virginia. ECPI University provides vouchers allowing students to take certification exams at a greatly reduced cost. The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification is recommended.