Surgical Technology

Surgical technologists are 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 one-year certificate 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 certificate. Students interested in the program should be in good physical and mental condition, be able to perform under stress and possess manual dexterity.

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:

1. Apply to Cisco College
2. Complete Surgical Technology Application and Application Letter (Available January 1 through May 1 of each year)
   1. 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:
      1. Varicella
      2. Bacterial Meningitis
      3. Tetanus-Diphtheria
      4. 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)
      5. MMR - x2
      6. Tuberculin skin test
   2. 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.  
   3. Applications are due by MAY 1st.

RESOURCES & REQUIREMENTS

• Surgical Technology Application
• Application Letter & Instructions

Selection Criteria

• GPA no less than 2.0
• Biographical essay discussing why you want to become a Surgical Technologist
• Completion of pre-requisite courses (MDCA 1313 Medical Terminology, BIOL 2401 Anatomy & Physiology I, & BIOL 2402 Anatomy & Physiology II) with a grade of "C" or better or current enrollment and satisfactory progress.
• 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

MDCA 1313 Medical Terminology
BIOL 2401 Anatomy & Physiology I
BIOL 2402 Anatomy & Physiology II 

Must attain a grade of "C" or better or show proof of current enrollment and satisfactory progress.