Surgical Technology (A.A.S.)

Be part of the surgical team. Learn sterile techniques, operating room procedures and patient support while assisting with surgical preparation instruments and procedures.

Surgical technology
Associate Degree
Outcome
Two academic years
Duration
On-Campus
Learning Format
Central Campus
Location

Statistics

Clinical experience

This program provides early and ongoing clinical experience starting in the first semester.

Hands-on learning

Our students train in dedicated surgical labs and use advanced tools, including a laparoscopic simulator.

Practical skills

Training prepares you for fast-paced, team-based work in the operating room.

Career-focused

Graduates are ready for entry-level roles in hospitals and surgical centers.

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About the programs

About the Surgical Technology program

The Surgical Technology program trains you to be a vital part of the operating room team. You will support surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists before, during, and after surgery. In class, lab practice and clinical rotations, you'll develop skills to keep environments sterile, assist in procedures and ensure patient safety. For more information, watch the on-demand information session.

Career Outlook for Surgical Technology (A.A.S.)

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Geographic Region

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Region CHARLOTTE, NC
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Frequently asked questions

Surgical technologists assist the surgical team before, during, and after procedures. They prepare sterile equipment, manage instruments and help maintain a safe operating room environment.

Graduates work in hospital surgical departments and surgery centers. Some roles may also be available in labor and delivery or endoscopy settings.

Students are introduced to the operating room in their first semester and continue clinical experience throughout the program. Clinical rotations take place at multiple healthcare facilities, reinforcing skills learned in the classroom and labs.

Students train in dedicated surgical labs and use specialized equipment, including a laparoscopic simulator. Lab work supports skills needed for clinical and operating room settings.

Yes. In addition to applying to the college, healthcare programs have a few extra steps. Learn what to do on the apply to a healthcare program page. There may also be additional requirements for enrollment. Please read the specifics for your program on the requirements page

ItemDescriptionIn State StudentsOut of State Students
TuitionWith General Education Courses (refer to note 1)$5,396$19,028
TuitionWithout General Education Courses (refer to note 1)$3,116$10,988
BooksWith General Education Courses$1,207$1,207
BooksWithout General Education Courses$901$901
Activity FeePaid each semester at registration - $26/semester if taking 8 credit hours or less; $35/semester if taking 9 credit hours or more$175$175
Tech FeePaid each semester at registration - $48/semester$240$240
CAPS FeeCampus Parking - $80/semester if taking 8 credit hours or less; $107/semester if taking 9 credit hours or more$535$535
Lab FeeIncluded in Course Registration - $27/lab hr. or $216 max/semester$405$405
Accident InsuranceRequired for program - $1.60/semester$8$8
Liability InsuranceRequired for program - $8.70/semester$44$44
UniformsOne time - required for program$200$200
CPROne time feevariablevariable
Physical Exam and ImmunizationsOne time upon admission to program - See Note 2. Immunizations as requiredvariablevariable
Criminal Background Check and Drug ScreeningOne time - required for clinicals$135$135
Graduation FeeOne time fee$20$20
Professional Association Student Membership FeeAssociation of Surgical Technologists (AST): $45/year$90$90
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) ExamFirst time test taker fee with AST membership (added to SUR 137 course fee)$247$247
TotalWith General Education Courses$8.617$22,249
TotalWithout General Education Courses$6,031$13,903

Notes

  1. Learn more about tuition and payments.
  2. The Central Piedmont student price for a physical exam is $49 at our on-campus Community Based Virtual Clinic.
  3. Tuition, books, some fees, accident insurance, and liability insurance may be eligible for coverage with financial aid.
  4. All costs have been rounded to the nearest dollar.
  5. All costs are estimates and are subject to change.

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