Associate Degree in
Surgical Technology
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
- On Campus
Associate Degree in Surgical Technology
Earning your Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Surgical Technology degree allows you to make a career out of maximizing patient safety, ensuring that operating room equipment functions properly, and supporting surgeons that save the lives of others.
To get the clinical experience you need, Monroe’s School of Allied Health Professionals provides a series of courses that prepare you to take on two surgical technology practicums at approved health care facilities in New York. With affordable classes taught by faculty that have experience working in the field of surgical technology, you can broaden your horizons in the health care field.
Why Should I Major in Surgical Technology?
Surgical technologists make a difference in the lives of others every day. Their primary responsibility is to prepare and maintain a sterile, organized environment within the operating room. Their days are typically split between preoperative (before the surgery), intraoperative (during the surgery), and postoperative (after).
Along with prepping for surgery, these health care professionals gather, count, arrange, and pass tools to the surgeon and surgeon’s assistant during the procedure. Constantly on their feet, surgical technologists must be vigilant in their work as there is no room for error within the operating room.
In postoperative surgery, the surgical technologist must recount their tools, suture the incision, apply dressings to the affected area(s), and dispose of any materials used in the surgery. Throughout each stage, surgical technologists must administer exemplary care to each unique patient in a fast-paced work environment.
Surgical Tech Program Curriculum
The Associate Degree in Surgical Technology is led by certified surgical technologists that want to see you succeed. Within the surgical tech major, students gain the opportunity to combine the knowledge of human anatomy and physiology with expertise in the theory and application of aseptic techniques, instrumentation, and surgical procedures. Through an engaging curriculum that affords the opportunity for hands-on learning within a state-of-the-art surgical suite, you work alongside faculty and students to maximize patient care.
Program Requirements:
- 67 credits
- 37 credits of major area courses
- 30 credits of liberal arts and sciences
- Two surgical technology practicums
Learn more about Monroe’s Surgical Tech program.
Orientation to Perioperative Services
This course provides an introduction to the perioperative skills required to function as a beginning surgical technologist in various health care environments. “Orientation to Perioperative Services'' will focus on establishing, maintaining, and coordinating the methods required for quality patient care in the operating room in accordance with established professional standards. Students will apply aseptic techniques, surgical principles, and surgical conscience in the performance of the required skills.
Admission Requirements
The Surgical Technology Admissions Committee holistically reviews each applicant’s admission materials, selecting the most highly qualified candidates for a limited number of seats.
First-year college students seeking admission into the Associate Degree in Surgical Technology must fulfill these admission requirements:
- Submission of high school diploma/GED
- Submission of college transcripts for candidates that have previously earned college credits
- Minimum GPA and overall cumulative academic performance of C+ (75) or higher
- Placement into college level math with a score of 250 or higher on the Accuplacer exam or equivalent
- Placement into college level English
- Interview with the Surgical Technology Program Director
- Submission of personal statement
Tuition and Financial Aid
Monroe College is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves an affordable, quality education. As such, we encourage all students to apply for financial aid. Learn more about Monroe’s affordable tuition and fees, including our manageable payment plans.
Future Career in Surgical Technology
An Associate Degree in Surgical Technology from Monroe allows you to step into a vital healthcare role. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that 7,700 new positions for surgical technologists will be added to the field through 2031.
Positions in the New York tri-state area include:
- Operating Room Technician
- Obstetrical Scrub Technician
- Organ Recovery Specialist
- Surgical Tech - Ambulatory Surgery OR
- Surgical Tech - Plastic Surgery
Surgical technologists often work in ambulatory surgery centers, hospital operating rooms, or private physician’s offices. Choosing a career in surgical technology leads you to a growing allied health profession with a median annual wage of $48,510.
Networking That Lasts
Through the support of dedicated faculty and a vibrant campus life, you gain lasting, meaningful connections throughout your education into your career. Monroe also offers you networking opportunities that extend beyond the surgical technology classroom:
- Alpha Eta — The national honor society for the allied health professions
- American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) — A professional organization that promotes the advancement and accessibility of health information
- Allied Health Club of Monroe College — Conduct health fairs, attend presentations, and participate in community service
Learn How to Prioritize Patient Care with a Degree in Surgical Technology
Majoring in Monroe’s surgical tech program means you can begin your dream career as a surgical technologist, maximizing patient safety.
Monroe College’s Associate Degree in Surgical Technology prepares you to join the ranks of an essential allied health profession as a competent, compassionate surgical technologist in the heart of New York.
Ready to make a difference? Apply today.
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