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Surgical Technology

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
  • 60 credits
  • 2 Years
  • Delivery Method: On-Campus

Why Study Surgical Technology at 91ɬÂþ?

Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients. They work under the supervision and delegatory authority of a surgeon to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of surgical procedures, ensuring a safe operating room environment.

Surgical technologists may function in either the first or second scrub role. The first scrub surgical technologist gathers, opens, and handles the instruments, supplies, and equipment necessary during the surgical procedure. They must anticipate the needs of the surgeon and are constantly on vigil for maintenance of the sterile field. The second scrub surgical technologist assists the surgeon during the operative procedure by carrying out tasks including holding retractors, cutting sutures, sponging, and suctioning.

Surgical technologists are experts in the theory and application of the principles of asepsis and sterile technique to combine the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation, tools and technologies to facilitate a physician's performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.

Successful surgical technologists must work with speed, accuracy, and skill. In addition, they must possess excellent communication and critical thinking skills. Surgical technologists must be able to respond effectively and efficiently to emergency situations and work well under pressure.

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91ɬÂþ is my TOP CHOICEfor Surgical Technology
The Surg Tech learning environment at 91ɬÂþ allows students to get hands-on experience right away which truly made the experience so much better. Emily Novotny
Surgical Technology

Career Information

Below you will find the Career Field and Career Cluster that this program is related to. Learn more about if this career area fits your interests!

Is Health Science right for you?

Health science workers promote health and wellness. They diagnose and treat injuries and disease. As a physician, dentist, or nurse, you could work directly with patients. You could also work in a laboratory to get information used in research or provide administrative support by keeping medical records.

$78K

$37/hr

Median annual salary/wage for
Surgical Technologists
in Minnesota

Details

5%

Projected job growth
in the next decade

Details

116K

Surgical Technologists are currently employed

Details

This data is delivered by an API from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Find more information including data update schedules at CareerOneStop's Data Sources (). Full list of datasources.

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Median Annual Salary/Wage Earnings for Surgical Technologists

the United States

$63K
$30/hr

$43K - $91K

$20/hr - $43/hr

Minnesota

$78K
$37/hr

$63K - $95K

$30/hr - $45/hr

Duluth, MN Area

$69K
$33/hr

$62K - $83K

$29/hr - $39/hr

The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas; national occupational estimates for specific industries are also available.

Salary data are from U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program (). Current as of May 2024.

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Projected 10-Year Job Growth for Surgical Technologists

Rapid Growth
Outlook: Bright

the United States

5%

Projected Annual Job Openings: 7,000

2024 to 2034

Minnesota

5%

Projected Annual Job Openings: 110

2022 to 2032

My Next Move provides career outlook designations that include Bright, Average, or Below Average. Bright Outlook occupations are expected to grow rapidly in the next several years, will have large numbers of job openings, or are new and emerging occupations.

Occupation outlook data come from O*NET Bright Outlook occupations () and My Next Move career outlook designations (). Note this information is only available at a national level, so even if you selected a state, you’ll see this information for the whole country. Current as of November 2024.

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Employment Numbers for Surgical Technologists

the United States

Estimated Employment:

115,600

Minnesota

Estimated Employment:

1,620

My Next Move provides career outlook designations that include Bright, Average, or Below Average. Bright Outlook occupations are expected to grow rapidly in the next several years, will have large numbers of job openings, or are new and emerging occupations.

Occupation outlook data come from O*NET Bright Outlook occupations () and My Next Move career outlook designations (). Note this information is only available at a national level, so even if you selected a state, you’ll see this information for the whole country. Current as of November 2024.

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Alternative Job Titles for Surgical Technologists

  • Certified Surgical Technician
  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
  • Operating Room Surgical Technician (OR St)
  • Operating Room Technician (OR Tech)
  • Operating Room Technologist (OR Tech)
  • Surgical Scrub Technician
  • Surgical Scrub Technologist (Surgical Scrub Tech)
  • Surgical Technician
  • Surgical Technologist (Surgical Tech)

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Job Tasks and Activities for Surgical Technologists

  • Adjust settings or positions of medical equipment.
  • Apply bandages, dressings, or splints.
  • Assist healthcare practitioners during surgery.
  • Clean and restock operating room, gathering and placing equipment and supplies and arranging instruments according to instructions, such as a preference card.
  • Clean medical equipment or facilities.
  • Count sponges, needles, and instruments before and after operation.
  • Hand instruments and supplies to surgeons and surgeons' assistants, hold retractors and cut sutures, and perform other tasks as directed by surgeon during operation.
  • Maintain a proper sterile field during surgical procedures.
  • Maintain files and records of surgical procedures.
  • Maintain inventory of medical supplies or equipment.
  • Maintain sterile operative fields.
  • Maintain supply of fluids, such as plasma, saline, blood, or glucose, for use during operations.
  • Monitor and continually assess operating room conditions, including patient and surgical team needs.
  • Monitor facilities or operational systems.
  • Monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities.
  • Observe patients' vital signs to assess physical condition.
  • Operate diagnostic or therapeutic medical instruments or equipment.
  • Operate, assemble, adjust, or monitor sterilizers, lights, suction machines, or diagnostic equipment to ensure proper operation.
  • Order medical supplies or equipment.
  • Order surgical supplies.
  • Position patients for treatment or examination.
  • Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
  • Prepare dressings or bandages and apply or assist with their application following surgery.
  • Prepare patients for surgery, including positioning patients on the operating table and covering them with sterile surgical drapes to prevent exposure.
  • Prepare, care for, and dispose of tissue specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
  • Protect patients or staff members using safety equipment.
  • Provide technical assistance to surgeons, surgical nurses, or anesthesiologists.
  • Record patient medical histories.
  • Scrub arms and hands and assist the surgical team to scrub and put on gloves, masks, and surgical clothing.
  • Sterilize medical equipment or instruments.
  • Wash and sterilize equipment, using germicides and sterilizers.

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Interests for Surgical Technologists

  • Realistic
    Designing, building, or repairing equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors.
  • Conventional
    Following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting.
  • Social
    Helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others.

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Skills for Surgical Technologists

In order of importance

  • Monitoring
    Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements.
    Importance: 69/100
  • Active Listening
    Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
    Importance: 60/100
  • Operations Monitoring
    Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working.
    Importance: 56/100
  • Time Management
    Managing your time and the time of other people.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Critical Thinking
    Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Coordination
    Changing what is done based on other people's actions.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Speaking
    Talking to others.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Management of Material Resources
    Managing equipment and materials.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Learning Strategies
    Using the best training or teaching strategies for learning new things.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Service Orientation
    Looking for ways to help people.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Instructing
    Teaching people how to do something.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Social Perceptiveness
    Understanding people's reactions.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Reading Comprehension
    Reading work-related information.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Operation and Control
    Using equipment or systems.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Judgment and Decision Making
    Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Equipment Maintenance
    Planning and doing the basic maintenance on equipment.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Complex Problem Solving
    Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Active Learning
    Figuring out how to use new ideas or things.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Systems Evaluation
    Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Writing
    Writing things for co-workers or customers.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Management of Personnel Resources
    Selecting and managing the best workers for a job.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Quality Control Analysis
    Testing how well a product or service works.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Troubleshooting
    Figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work.
    Importance: 44/100
  • Persuasion
    Talking people into changing their minds or their behavior.
    Importance: 41/100
  • Mathematics
    Using math to solve problems.
    Importance: 41/100
  • Negotiation
    Bringing people together to solve differences.
    Importance: 41/100
  • Repairing
    Repairing machines or systems using the right tools.
    Importance: 38/100
  • Systems Analysis
    Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it.
    Importance: 38/100
  • Equipment Selection
    Deciding what kind of tools and equipment are needed to do a job.
    Importance: 35/100
  • Science
    Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems.
    Importance: 31/100
  • Management of Financial Resources
    Making spending decisions and keeping track of what is spent.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Operations Analysis
    Figuring out what a product or service needs to be able to do.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Technology Design
    Making equipment and technology useful for customers.
    Importance: 22/100
  • Programming
    Writing computer programs.
    Importance: 3/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Knowledge for Surgical Technologists

In order of importance

  • Customer and Personal Service
    Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
    Importance: 68/100
  • Medicine and Dentistry
    Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
    Importance: 68/100
  • English Language
    Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
    Importance: 61/100
  • Education and Training
    Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Psychology
    Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Public Safety and Security
    Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Biology
    Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
    Importance: 45/100
  • Mathematics
    Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
    Importance: 43/100
  • Computers and Electronics
    Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
    Importance: 42/100
  • Administration and Management
    Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
    Importance: 39/100
  • Chemistry
    Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
    Importance: 36/100
  • Production and Processing
    Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
    Importance: 35/100
  • Mechanical
    Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
    Importance: 34/100
  • Therapy and Counseling
    Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
    Importance: 31/100
  • Personnel and Human Resources
    Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
    Importance: 31/100
  • Law and Government
    Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
    Importance: 31/100
  • Sociology and Anthropology
    Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
    Importance: 29/100
  • Administrative
    Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
    Importance: 28/100
  • Engineering and Technology
    Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Communications and Media
    Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Telecommunications
    Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
    Importance: 19/100
  • Physics
    Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
    Importance: 18/100
  • Economics and Accounting
    Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
    Importance: 18/100
  • Transportation
    Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
    Importance: 15/100
  • Sales and Marketing
    Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
    Importance: 13/100
  • Philosophy and Theology
    Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
    Importance: 12/100
  • Design
    Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
    Importance: 11/100
  • Foreign Language
    Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
    Importance: 8/100
  • Building and Construction
    Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
    Importance: 8/100
  • Geography
    Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
    Importance: 7/100
  • History and Archeology
    Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
    Importance: 6/100
  • Food Production
    Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
    Importance: 4/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Physical Abilities for Surgical Technologists

In order of importance

  • Oral Comprehension
    Listening and understanding what people say.
    Importance: 75/100
  • Problem Sensitivity
    Noticing when problems happen.
    Importance: 69/100
  • Near Vision
    Seeing details up close.
    Importance: 69/100
  • Speech Recognition
    Recognizing spoken words.
    Importance: 66/100
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness
    Keeping your arm or hand steady.
    Importance: 63/100
  • Selective Attention
    Paying attention to something without being distracted.
    Importance: 60/100
  • Manual Dexterity
    Holding or moving items with your hands.
    Importance: 60/100
  • Oral Expression
    Communicating by speaking.
    Importance: 56/100
  • Perceptual Speed
    Quickly comparing groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things.
    Importance: 56/100
  • Information Ordering
    Ordering or arranging things.
    Importance: 56/100
  • Flexibility of Closure
    Seeing hidden patterns.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Speech Clarity
    Speaking clearly.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Visual Color Discrimination
    Noticing the difference between colors, including shades and brightness.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Number Facility
    Adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing.
    Importance: 53/100
  • Inductive Reasoning
    Making general rules or coming up with answers from lots of detailed information.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Control Precision
    Quickly changing the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Category Flexibility
    Grouping things in different ways.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Written Comprehension
    Reading and understanding what is written.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Deductive Reasoning
    Using rules to solve problems.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Multilimb Coordination
    Using your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Visualization
    Imagining how something will look after it is moved around or changed.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Trunk Strength
    Using your lower back and stomach.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Far Vision
    Seeing details that are far away.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Written Expression
    Communicating by writing.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Finger Dexterity
    Putting together small parts with your fingers.
    Importance: 50/100
  • Hearing Sensitivity
    Telling the difference between sounds.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Fluency of Ideas
    Coming up with lots of ideas.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Auditory Attention
    Paying attention to one sound while there are other distracting sounds.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Time Sharing
    Doing two or more things at the same time.
    Importance: 47/100
  • Memorization
    Remembering words, numbers, pictures, or steps.
    Importance: 44/100
  • Static Strength
    Lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying.
    Importance: 44/100
  • Speed of Closure
    Quickly knowing what you are looking at.
    Importance: 44/100
  • Extent Flexibility
    Bending, stretching, twisting, or reaching with your body, arms, and/or legs.
    Importance: 44/100
  • Depth Perception
    Deciding which thing is closer or farther away from you, or deciding how far away it is from you.
    Importance: 44/100
  • Originality
    Creating new and original ideas.
    Importance: 38/100
  • Mathematical Reasoning
    Choosing the right type of math to solve a problem.
    Importance: 38/100
  • Stamina
    Exercising for a long time without getting out of breath.
    Importance: 35/100
  • Response Orientation
    Quickly deciding if you should move your hand, foot, or other body part.
    Importance: 31/100
  • Wrist-Finger Speed
    Making fast, simple, repeated movements of your fingers, hands, and wrists.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Reaction Time
    Quickly moving your hand, finger, or foot based on a sound, light, picture or other command.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Dynamic Strength
    Exercising for a long time without your muscles getting tired.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Gross Body Coordination
    Moving your arms, legs, and mid-section together while your whole body is moving.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Rate Control
    Changing when and how fast you move based on how something else is moving.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Speed of Limb Movement
    Quickly moving your arms and legs.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Gross Body Equilibrium
    Keeping your balance or staying upright.
    Importance: 25/100
  • Glare Sensitivity
    Seeing something even if there is a glare or very bright light.
    Importance: 13/100
  • Sound Localization
    Noticing the direction that a sound came from.
    Importance: 3/100
  • Spatial Orientation
    Knowing where things are around you.
    Importance: 3/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Tools and Technology used by Surgical Technologists

  • Surgical pneumatic or battery or electric saws or drills or pin drivers
  • Surgical suction machine or vacuum extractor or ultrasonic surgical aspirator
  • Electrosurgical or electrocautery equipment
  • Medical staplers for internal use
  • Surgical power equipment sets
  • General surgical supply set accessories
  • Surgical drains or drain sets
  • Instrument tables for surgical or obstetrical delivery use
  • Steam autoclaves or sterilizers
  • Surgical lasers
  • Surgical dermatomes or dermabraders or dermameshers
  • Chemical or gas sterilizers
  • Operating room patient positioning devices for general use
  • Surgical microscopes or loupes or magnifiers
  • Suturing kits or trays or packs or sets
  • Cryosurgery units
  • Surgical elevators or levers
  • Surgical clamps or clips or forceps
  • Autotransfusion units
  • Medical imaging dry laser printers or imagers
  • Surgical retractors
  • Operating room patient fracture tables or orthopedic tables
  • Medical staplers for external use
  • Medical equipment and instrument disinfectant washing equipment
  • Surgical lithotripters
  • Mobile medical services automated external defibrillators AED or hard paddles
  • Pleural cavity drainage units or containers
  • Vein harvest kits or systems
  • Gas anesthesia apparatus or machines
  • Heart and lung machines
  • Vascular sequential compression devices or tubing
  • Surgical instrument holders or positioners
  • Surgical equipment stands
  • Electronic blood pressure units
  • Coronary stents
  • Surgical pneumatic or electric tourniquets
  • General surgical instrument sets
  • Surgical vacuum extraction devices or curettes or related products
  • Mercury blood pressure units
  • Medical exam or surgical headlights or headlamps
  • Surgical probes or directors
  • Medical picture archiving computer systems PACS
  • Intravenous or arterial fluid warmers
  • Surgical needle holders
  • Surgical scalpels or knives or blades or trephines
  • Laparoscopes or laparoscopic telescopes
  • Surgical navigation system accessories
  • Urological surgical catheter accessories
  • Endoscopic equipment or procedure carts
  • Surgical smoke evacuators
  • Eyemagnets for ophthalmic surgery
  • Medical ultrasound or doppler or echocardiograph transducer accessories
  • Therapeutic heating or cooling units or systems
  • Medical cinefluoroscopy units
  • Sterilization cabinets
  • Medical x ray units for general diagnostic use
  • Therapeutic heating or cooling blankets or drapes
  • Lap mayo trays or mayo stands for surgical use
  • Resuscitation kits
  • Patient stretchers
  • Ultrasonic cleaning equipment
  • Endoscopic video cameras or recorders or adapters or accessories
  • Medical syringes without needle
  • Endoscopic clamp or dissector or grasper or forceps
  • Specimen collection container
  • Surgical nerve stimulators
  • Oxygen insufflators
  • Video cassette players or recorders
  • Wheelchairs
  • Surgical dilators
  • Surgical drapes
  • Surgical dissectors
  • Notebook computers
  • Central venous catheters
  • Tourniquets
  • Tracheostomy tubes
  • Suture needles
  • Desktop computers
  • Personal computers
  • Tablet computers
  • Medical software
    • Electronic medical record EMR software
    • MEDITECH software
    • Nursing documentation software
    • Patient scheduling software
    • Patient tracking software
    • Supply documentation software
    • Surgery workflow communication software
  • Electronic mail software
    • Email software
  • Graphics or photo imaging software
    • Graphics software
  • Spreadsheet software
    • Microsoft Excel
  • Office suite software
    • Microsoft Office software
  • Cloud-based data access and sharing software
    • Google Drive
  • Operating system software
    • Microsoft Windows
  • Word processing software
    • Microsoft Word
    • Word processing software
  • Data base user interface and query software
    • Database software
  • Internet browser software
    • Internet browser software

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Employment Industries for Surgical Technologists

  • General medical and surgical hospitals; private
    68,400 employed
  • Offices of physicians
    11,800 employed
  • General medical and surgical hospitals; local
    8,100 employed
  • Temporary help services
    3,600 employed
  • General medical and surgical hospitals; state
    3,300 employed
  • Offices of dentists
    2,500 employed

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database () by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 () license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

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Career Information Datasources for Surgical Technologists

  • Wages by occupation

    The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas; national occupational estimates for specific industries are also available. Current as of May 2024.
  • Education and training assignments

    BLS provides information about education and training requirements for hundreds of occupations. In the education and training system, each of the occupations for which the office publishes projections data is assigned separate categories for education, work experience, and on-the-job training. Current as of September 2024.
  • Occupation data

    The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements. Current as of October 2024.
  • Occupation outlook

    My Next Move provides career outlook designations that include Bright, Average, or Below Average. Bright Outlook occupations are expected to grow rapidly in the next several years, will have large numbers of job openings, or are new and emerging occupations. Current as of November 2024.
  • Career videos

    Explore our collection of videos on hundreds of different careers. Career videos are organized into 16 clusters, or related types of work. Select a category to view a list of videos related to that cluster. Videos include career details such as tasks, work settings, education needed, and more. Current as of rolling.
  • Educational attainment, typical education of current workers

    BLS provides information about education and training requirements for hundreds of occupations. Educational attainment data for each occupation show the level of education achieved by current workers. Current as of September 2024.

Plan Your Education

The Surgical Technology Program Guide is a tool to help you map out how to successfully get your degree at 91ɬÂþ

View approximate total tuition and fees for MN residents to complete this degree.

This program may be completed in 2 years if prerequisites are complete.

This program has additional entry requirements.

The Surgical Technology Program Application Window is Open February 1, 2026 - Until Filled.

You must first be admitted as an 91ɬÂþ student and declare Surgical Technology as your major before applying to this program.

Not an accepted 91ɬÂþ student yet? Be sure to Apply FOR FREE to 91ɬÂþ and gain admission before applying to this program.

 

Paying for College

Lake Superior College$5,93191ɬÂþ IceHawks Logo 
Minnesota State Colleges$6,444 
Minnesota State Universities$10,643 
University of Minnesota$14,928 
Minnesota Private Colleges and Universities$44,928
*Based on average 2025-26 tuition and fees. For the exact costs, contact the institution that interests you. Does not include room and board.

Program Participation Requirements

Pre-program Requirements

Successful entry into this program requires a specific level of skill in the areas of English, Mathematics, and Reading. Program entry will depend, in part, on meeting the prerequisites listed below:

English/Reading:

  • Eligible for ENGL 1106 - College Composition I, or
  • Completion of ENGL/READ 0950/0955 (or equivalent or higher). ENGL/READ 0950/0955 may not be taken concurrently with Semester I coursework.

Mathematics:

  • Eligible for MATH 0950/0955 - Essentials of Mathematics: Intermediate/Advanced.

There are other ways to qualify. Visit Course Placement to find out more.

NOTE: All of the following are required for the clinical rotation portion of the program:

  • Current immunizations and current negative Tuberculosis (TB) screening
  • Current certification in American Heart Association BLS Healthcare Provider or American Red Cross BLS/CPR for Healthcare Providers. ALTH 1430 will satisfy this requirement.
  • Background Study approval is required from the State of Minnesota and/or Wisconsin. A national criminal background study is also required.
Course Title Credits
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ALTH 1410 Medical Terminology

This course focuses on the component parts of medical terms: prefixes, suffixes and word roots. Students practice formation, analysis and reconstruction of terms with an emphasis on spelling, definition and pronunciation. (Prerequisites: ENGL0950 or EN

ALTH 1410
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ALTH 1410 Medical Terminology

This course focuses on the component parts of medical terms: prefixes, suffixes and word roots. Students practice formation, analysis and reconstruction of terms with an emphasis on spelling, definition and pronunciation. (Prerequisites: ENGL0950 or EN

Medical Terminology
1
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BIOL 1005 Introduction to Cell Biology

An introduction to the field of cell biology with a focus on the basic unit of life, the cell - its function, chemistry, metabolism, and structure. Must be passed with a grade of "C" or better to qualify as a prerequisite for other Biology courses. (Pre

BIOL 1005
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BIOL 1005 Introduction to Cell Biology

An introduction to the field of cell biology with a focus on the basic unit of life, the cell - its function, chemistry, metabolism, and structure. Must be passed with a grade of "C" or better to qualify as a prerequisite for other Biology courses. (Pre

Introduction to Cell Biology
1
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BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I

A study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Topics studied are tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscle system, nervous system, and special senses.

BIOL 1140
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BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I

A study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Topics studied are tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscle system, nervous system, and special senses.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I
4
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SURG 1210 Introduction to Surgical Technology

This Introductory course is open to all students who are interested in exploring a career in Surgical Technology. This course will explore professional characteristics of a surgical technologist, expectations of their role as a member of the surgical team

SURG 1210
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SURG 1210 Introduction to Surgical Technology

This Introductory course is open to all students who are interested in exploring a career in Surgical Technology. This course will explore professional characteristics of a surgical technologist, expectations of their role as a member of the surgical team

Introduction to Surgical Technology
1
Course Title Credits
Semester 1
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BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II

Continued study of body structure and function. Incorporates principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. A study of the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and r

BIOL 1141
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BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II

Continued study of body structure and function. Incorporates principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. A study of the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and r

Human Anatomy and Physiology II
4
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PSYC 1120 General Psychology

A general education course which will familiarize the student with the basic principles of psychology, present a practical application of these principles, show how psychologists employ the scientific method, and equip the beginning student of psychology

PSYC 1120
or
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PSYC 1135 Lifespan Developmental Psychology

A scientific, theoretical, and historical examination of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across the lifespan with a focus on individual and group (e.g., race, class, gender) similarities and differences across American society and c

PSYC 1135
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PSYC 1120 General Psychology

A general education course which will familiarize the student with the basic principles of psychology, present a practical application of these principles, show how psychologists employ the scientific method, and equip the beginning student of psychology

General Psychology
or
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PSYC 1135 Lifespan Developmental Psychology

A scientific, theoretical, and historical examination of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across the lifespan with a focus on individual and group (e.g., race, class, gender) similarities and differences across American society and c

Lifespan Developmental Psychology
3
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BIOL 1170 Microbiology

This course includes study of classification, structure and function of microbes with an emphasis on microbes that cause disease. Topics include microbial metabolism and growth, control of microbes, microbial genetics, and basic laboratory techniques used

BIOL 1170
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BIOL 1170 Microbiology

This course includes study of classification, structure and function of microbes with an emphasis on microbes that cause disease. Topics include microbial metabolism and growth, control of microbes, microbial genetics, and basic laboratory techniques used

Microbiology
3
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SURG 1211 Foundations of Professional Practice in Surgical Technology

This course is for students who have been accepted into the Surgical Technology program. It introduces foundational concepts of professional practice including legal and ethical responsibilities. Students will evaluate the holistic needs of surgical patie

SURG 1211
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SURG 1211 Foundations of Professional Practice in Surgical Technology

This course is for students who have been accepted into the Surgical Technology program. It introduces foundational concepts of professional practice including legal and ethical responsibilities. Students will evaluate the holistic needs of surgical patie

Foundations of Professional Practice in Surgical Technology
2
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SURG 1212 Surgical Lab I

This introductory lab course teaches basic skills required of the surgical technologist during the preoperative surgical phase. During this course students will learn such skills as the surgical hand scrub, donning sterile attire, creating the sterile fie

SURG 1212
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SURG 1212 Surgical Lab I

This introductory lab course teaches basic skills required of the surgical technologist during the preoperative surgical phase. During this course students will learn such skills as the surgical hand scrub, donning sterile attire, creating the sterile fie

Surgical Lab I
2
Semester 2
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BIOL 2170 Pathophysiology

This class uses a case study approach to the study of human physiology as it is affected by the disease process, the bodys attempts to compensate, and integration of systems to maintain homeostasis. The focus is on cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal, repro

BIOL 2170
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BIOL 2170 Pathophysiology

This class uses a case study approach to the study of human physiology as it is affected by the disease process, the bodys attempts to compensate, and integration of systems to maintain homeostasis. The focus is on cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal, repro

Pathophysiology
3
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COMM 1105 Interpersonal Communication

This course provides opportunities for students to understand the process of human communication, to assess their strengths and weaknesses as communicators, to assist them in solving problems of an interpersonal nature, and develop interaction skills for

COMM 1105
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COMM 1105 Interpersonal Communication

This course provides opportunities for students to understand the process of human communication, to assess their strengths and weaknesses as communicators, to assist them in solving problems of an interpersonal nature, and develop interaction skills for

Interpersonal Communication
3
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SURG 1310 Surgical Techniques I

This course introduces knowledge and techniques essential to the surgical technologist during the perioperative time frame. Emphasis is placed on hemostasis, wound healing, wound closure, and identification and proper usage of instruments, equipment, and

SURG 1310
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SURG 1310 Surgical Techniques I

This course introduces knowledge and techniques essential to the surgical technologist during the perioperative time frame. Emphasis is placed on hemostasis, wound healing, wound closure, and identification and proper usage of instruments, equipment, and

Surgical Techniques I
3
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SURG 1312 Surgical Lab II

This lab course introduces practical concepts, principles, and professional standards required for clinical practice. The focus of this course is the application of aseptic technique to ensure safe patient care practices as they apply to the first scrub,

SURG 1312
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SURG 1312 Surgical Lab II

This lab course introduces practical concepts, principles, and professional standards required for clinical practice. The focus of this course is the application of aseptic technique to ensure safe patient care practices as they apply to the first scrub,

Surgical Lab II
4
Semester 3
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SURG 2210 Surgical Techniques II

This course discusses minimally invasive surgery along with the modalities of electricity, radiation, and lasers. There is a focus on sterile technique and the principles of asepsis, decontamination, disinfection, and sterilization. The course also addres

SURG 2210
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SURG 2210 Surgical Techniques II

This course discusses minimally invasive surgery along with the modalities of electricity, radiation, and lasers. There is a focus on sterile technique and the principles of asepsis, decontamination, disinfection, and sterilization. The course also addres

Surgical Techniques II
3
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SURG 2212 Surgical Clinical I

This clinical rotation provides an introduction into the operating room for the student surgical technologist. Application of knowledge of surgical techniques, procedures, equipment, instruments, and supplies in a real-world environment is emphasized. Stu

SURG 2212
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SURG 2212 Surgical Clinical I

This clinical rotation provides an introduction into the operating room for the student surgical technologist. Application of knowledge of surgical techniques, procedures, equipment, instruments, and supplies in a real-world environment is emphasized. Stu

Surgical Clinical I
4
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SURG 2214 Surgical Procedures

This course summarizes select diagnostic procedures and abdominal incisions in addition to surgeries related to the following specialties: General, Obstetric and Gynecologic, Ophthalmic, Otorhinolaryngologic, Oral and Maxillofacial, Plastic and Reconstruc

SURG 2214
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SURG 2214 Surgical Procedures

This course summarizes select diagnostic procedures and abdominal incisions in addition to surgeries related to the following specialties: General, Obstetric and Gynecologic, Ophthalmic, Otorhinolaryngologic, Oral and Maxillofacial, Plastic and Reconstruc

Surgical Procedures
6
Semester 4
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SURG 2312 Surgical Clinical II

This clinical rotation focuses on demonstration of leveled mastery of learned skills as students assist in a variety of surgeries and duties. Students will work under direct supervision of faculty and operating room staff as they focus on improving their

SURG 2312
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SURG 2312 Surgical Clinical II

This clinical rotation focuses on demonstration of leveled mastery of learned skills as students assist in a variety of surgeries and duties. Students will work under direct supervision of faculty and operating room staff as they focus on improving their

Surgical Clinical II
12
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SURG 2320 Professional Preparation and Review

This course prepares students for their new role as entry-level surgical technologists. Students develop a plan to secure employment in the healthcare field by creating a resume and participating in mock interviews. Students also prepare for the national

SURG 2320
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SURG 2320 Professional Preparation and Review

This course prepares students for their new role as entry-level surgical technologists. Students develop a plan to secure employment in the healthcare field by creating a resume and participating in mock interviews. Students also prepare for the national

Professional Preparation and Review
1
Total: 60

Courses may require a prerequisite. Refer to the course outline or check with an advisor.

Program Outcomes

  • Demonstrate acceptable knowledge-based competencies in accordance with national standards for surgical technology.
  • Demonstrate professional behaviors consistent with national standards and employer expectations.
  • Demonstrate safe patient care practices consistent with national standards and employer expectations.
  • Demonstrate compassion for the patient and maintain confidentiality.
  • Exhibit a strong sense of ethical behavior and surgical conscience.
  • Exhibit self-direction and responsibility for actions.
  • Work under difficult and sometimes stressful situations and maintain composure.
  • Join the Association of Surgical Technologists for continuing education opportunities.
  • Successfully scrub 120 surgical procedures as outlined by the .
  • Participate in the national certification exam conducted by the.

Accreditation

The Surgical Technology Program at Lake Superior College is accredited by the () upon the recommendation of the .

CAAHEP - 9355 113th St N #7709 - Seminole, FL 33775 - 727-210-2350

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