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Unlike degree programs, a surgical tech diploma can often be earned in less than a year. Diploma coursework can be completed from a wide range of programs found across the US at local community colleges, universities, and vocational schools.
With a diploma from an accredited program, students can go on to entry-level employment, or to earn surgical tech certification, giving them the ability to pursue a wider range of surgical tech and assistant positions.
Most surgical tech diploma programs consist of both classwork and clinical training. Throughout the course of a year, students will take a set of classes like:
These are just a few of the courses students take in surgical tech diploma programs, although specific course lists vary from school to school. Some surgical tech diploma programs may also involve an externship, consisting of students working in a clinical setting under the supervision of an actual surgical technologist. This hands-on training provides valuable experience working with patients and surgeons.
There are a few education requirements students normally complete before enrolling in a surgical tech diploma program. A high school diploma or GED is a primary requirement. Many programs also require that students maintain a certain GPA throughout their studies. While not a requirement, it may also be a good idea for students to have background knowledge in areas like health, chemistry and math.
Because surgical technologists work in healthcare environments, there are also a few health requirements that pertain to surgical tech diploma programs. Applicants to diploma programs may undergo a physical exam in addition to receiving immunizations for Bacterial Meningitis and other common diseases. Many programs also require CPR certification.
Before enrolling in a surgical tech diploma program, applicants must consider several factors including accreditation, length, coursework, and location.
Accreditation – While there are many surgical tech diploma programs available, finding one that is accredited is almost essential. Graduation from an accredited program is a requirement of most types of surgical tech certification, which is increasingly important when it comes to career advances, pay raises, and flexibility in finding a job. The most reputable programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Coursework –Most surgical technicians go through similar training no matter where they enroll, but the specifics of each program can change from school to school. Different schools offer different classes, and many even include supervised clinical training.
Length – Various surgical tech diploma programs take different amounts of time to complete. Some programs allow students to earn a diploma in as little as 9 months, while others may last up to 16.
Location – Students have the choice between traditional and online diploma programs. Some schools only accept applicants who live within commuting distance of the campus. In these cases, online schools allow students to learn from any location, including from home.
Since 1977, Keiser University has provided quality student-centered, career-focused education. Keiser University Online offers degree programs online to prepare students for in-demand professions. Degrees are offered with a curriculum that is in pace with technology and workforce demand trends in business, criminal justice, health care, information technology and more. Our “one-class-at-a-time” approach allows busy students to focus on their education and balance the demands of work and family.
From admissions to faculty, our staff is dedicated to student care:
We help you find your new career
Our Department of Student Services will support you in your job search and help you achieve your career goals with services including counseling, assisting you with resume preparation, building a cover letter, and developing your interviewing skills.
Although Keiser University provides placement assistance, we cannot promise or guarantee employment.
Keiser is one of Florida’s largest independent universities and a valued choice for career-motivated students. Keiser University Online offers degrees in fields that are in demand and provides job placement assistance to its students and alumni. We research trends for growing fields and tailor our curriculum to prepare students for entry and advancement to rewarding careers.
Keiser University is a private, not-for-profit university.
ACCREDITATION
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificates and degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral levels. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Keiser University.
Career Step, a leading online school, focuses on helping students quickly gain the career skills they need to succeed in rapidly growing industries. With 20 years of experience, the school has trained over 70,000 students in the United States and internationally and offers programs in the allied health, administrative services, and technology industries. Career Step’s training programs are offered entirely online, and the school is committed to helping each enrolling student graduate and successfully transition to a rewarding career.
Career Step training offers you the following benefits:
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