Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How do I get started in the surgical technology program?
A: First, make application to the college; this can be done on-line, by phone, or in person. Then see a counselor on Central Campus in the Central High Building, room #212. The counselor will arrange for you to take the TEAS test, and any other placement tests. You can contact the counseling department at 704.330.6433 to inquire about the hours they are available to see students. Additionally, complete the program application for Surgical Technology. Applications can be found online and in Belk 3rd Floor.
Q: What is the purpose of the TEAS and the placement tests?
A: Many of our students have been out of school for a number of years, the placement tests help evaluate a student’s readiness to successfully complete college level coursework. Scores from the TEAS are used to determine admission to the Surgical Technology program.
Q: How do I take the TEAS test?
A: The TEAS is offered in the Central High Building, Room #248. The TEAS can only be taken every 3 months. The cost of the TEAS is $43.00. This fee is paid to the cashier’s office in the Central High building. You will need a permission slip to take the TEAS for the Surgical Technology Program; this permission slip is attached to the program application.
Q: What scores do I need on the TEAS?
A: Admission to the program is based solely on TEAS test scores. The higher your score, the more likely you are to get into the program.
Q: What if I already have a college degree or have earned college credit?
A: Even if you have previously earned a college degree or completed college-level credits, you will need to visit the counseling department. Additionally, you should have your transcripts from your previous school mailed to CPCC’s student record department. Once your transcripts have been received in the records department, you can complete a transcript evaluation form to have your transcript evaluated for transfer of credit. For example, if you previously took an English course that is equivalent to the English requirement for the surgical technology degree, these credits will be transferred onto your CPCC transcript and you will not need to repeat that course. You also must have your high school transcript on file with the college to be considered for the surgical technology program.
Q: When can I apply to the surgical technology program?
A: Applications are accepted at any time, however new students begin in August. Students are admitted to the program once a year for the fall semester. Refer to application packet for current deadline dates.
Q: How competitive is admission?
A: This program is very competitive and we receive many qualified applicants every year. We only admit 20 students each fall.
Q: Is there a waiting list?
A: There is no waiting list. Entry is based on a ranking of admission tests. Those students with the highest points will be admitted to the program. Students not admitted must reapply.
Q: Are there courses I can take while I am waiting to be admitted to the program?
A: Yes, any general education course that is in the surgical technology curriculum. These can be found in the admission packet or the college catalog. It is suggested that students considering applying take Anatomy BIO163 while waiting to apply to the program.
Q: How and when will I find out if I have been admitted to the program?
A: All applicants will receive a letter of notification indicating the status of their application. All admitted students must attend a mandatory orientation session in May.
Q: How much will it cost to complete the surgical technology program?
A: In state tuition costs are approximately $4200.00 for the program; this does not include, textbook, uniforms, equipment, fees for physical examination and immunizations, background check, drug screen, insurance, etc.
Q: How do I learn about financial aid opportunities?
A: Visit the financial aid office located in the Central High Building.
Q: Can I take courses on any CPCC campus?
A: You can complete general education courses on any campus. However, surgical technology program courses (SUR) are taught on Central campus. Hospital clinical experiences are done at facilities throughout Charlotte, Matthews, Huntersville and, many private surgical centers and various physician offices.
Q: Do I need to complete all the general education requirements before I can be admitted to the program?
A: No. Many students do complete some or all the general education courses prior to starting the surgical technology coursework because it lightens their course load when they are taking the surgical technology courses which are very intensive. Suggested courses are BIO163, BIO175, MED121
Q: Are there other specific requirements once I’m accepted into the surgical technology program?
A: Yes, we require that all students have a current CPR with AED certification before they can enter the hospitals. Also, we require certain immunizations and a physical assessment, and proof of health/medical insurance. All of our clinical facilities require a state and national criminal background investigation and drug screen of all students before they can be allowed into the clinical areas.
Q: What is the starting salary for a surgical technologist?
A: Starting salary in the Charlotte market is $34,000/year.
Q: Can I complete the program on a part-time basis?
A: Completion of the general education courses can be done part-time, but once you begin surgical technology (SUR) courses you have 2 years to finish.
Q: Are there any special policies for international students?
A: For international students and questions concerning the TOEFL, please go the CPCC Catalog page 40.
Q: Does the surgical technology program have surgical technology classes in the summer?
A: No, the surgical technology program is four semesters long and it takes four semesters to complete the program. (Two academic years)
Q: I’m already a working surgical technologist; can I enroll and earn my degree?
A: Yes, there is now a ST-AAS Bridge Option for certified surgical technologists who are graduates of an accredited program. This option allows for transfer credit for previous surgical and general education courses. Bridge students take upper level SUR courses, while finishing their degree. Upon completion Bridge students are awarded their Associates degree.
Q: What if I have more questions?
A: Contact the Program Chair at 704.330.6265
