Surgical technologists are an integral part of the surgical team, assisting surgeons, anesthesiologists, and registered nurses in providing care to patients in the operating room. The surgical technologist works under medical supervision to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical procedures. This individual ensures that the operating room or environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.
The Cisco College Surgical Technology Program is a 4 semester associate of applied science degree program beginning in the fall semester of each year. The program includes hours of clinical observation and experience in the operating room, as well as lecture and laboratory classes. After successful completion of the required curriculum, students earn a degree. Students interested in the program should be in good physical and mental condition, be able to perform under stress, and possess manual dexterity.
Please see pages 118-119 of the Cisco College Course Catalog for course information.
Application Procedure
The Surgical Technology Program is a limited access program with one start per year in August. To be considered for admission to the Surgical Technology program, interested persons should:
- Apply to Cisco College
- Complete Surgical Technology Application and Application Letter (DEADLINE June 15, 2022 for the August 2022 Start)
- As part of the Surgical Technology Application you are required to provide the Surgical Technology Program Director with a copy of your immunization record containing proof (titer, immunization or physician's documentation of illness) of the following immunizations and a negative Tuberculin skin test:
- Varicella
- Bacterial Meningitis
- Tetanus-Diphtheria (within 7 years)
- Hepatitis B (2 of the 3 doses must be administered prior to the program start. The 3rd dose must be administered prior to clinical start in the Fall semester)
- MMR - x2
- Tuberculin skin test
- Many clinical sites utilized throughout the various Health Sciences Programs at Cisco College require a background check and/or drug screen prior to participation in the clinical portion of the program.
- Applications are due by June 15th.
- As part of the Surgical Technology Application you are required to provide the Surgical Technology Program Director with a copy of your immunization record containing proof (titer, immunization or physician's documentation of illness) of the following immunizations and a negative Tuberculin skin test:
RESOURCES & REQUIREMENTS
Selection Criteria
- GPA no less than 2.0
- Biographical essay discussing why you want to become a Surgical Technologist
- Any additional academic, occupation/health sciences, or science related courses taken and passed with a "C" or better are viewed favorably
- Formal interview with a panel, including but not limited to the Program Director, Division Chair, and other health science professionals.
The Surgical Technology Program is a strenuous program requiring your full time commitment and attention. It is a limited access program and accepts no more than 10 students; as a result, the selection process is taken very seriously.
Prerequisites
None
About this Program
Degrees & Certifications | Program Length |
---|---|
Associate of Applied Science Degree | Four Semesters |
What Can This Program Do For You
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Potential Career Paths
- Surgical Technologist
- Surgeon's Assistant
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Salary Information
Links to the following websites are provided for your convenience and information and do not constitute official endorsement by Cisco College.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook’ can help you find career information on duties, education and training, pay, and outlook for hundreds of occupations.
- Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Career One Stop is a resource for career exploration, training, skill sets, wages & jobs.
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Certification
Students who successfully complete the Surgical Technology Program at Cisco College are eligible to sit for the certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.
2013 - 2014 100% certification rate
2014 - 2015 100% certification rate
2015 - 2016 100% certification rate
2017 - 2018 60% certification rate
- Additional Resources
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Student Success Outcomes
Outcomes Assessment Exam
Annual Reporting Year Academic Year # of Students Graduated # of Students Who Took CST Exam # of Students Who Passed CST Exam* % of Students who Passed CST Exam* 2018 8/1/2016 - 7/31/2017 5 5 3 60% 2017 8/1/2015 - 7/1/2016 2 2 2 100% 2016 8/1/2014 - 7/1/2015 5 5 5 100% 2015 8/1/2013 - 7/1/2014 3 3 3 100% *CST Exam Pass Rate = 70%
Everyone here is really helpful. They lead you to where you need to be. The advisors are really great, and the teachers are always there to help you. They’ll stay after with you and get you to where you need to be.
– Jordan Supernaw
Meet the Faculty
Jennifer Mazey
Surgical Technology Professor
Abilene Campus
(325) 794-4436
jennifer.mazey@cisco.edu