Surgical Tech Programs Cost

Surgical Tech Programs Cost

Surgical technologists are in high demand, and their salaries reflect that. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists was $49,780 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,840, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $75,330.

The cost of a surgical tech program can vary depending on the school you attend and the length of the program. However, most programs cost between $10,000 and $30,000. Some programs may also offer financial aid to help students pay for their education.

Types of Surgical Tech Programs

There are two main types of surgical tech programs: associate degree programs and certificate programs. Associate degree programs typically take two years to complete, while certificate programs can be completed in as little as one year.

Associate degree programs provide students with a more comprehensive education in surgical technology. They cover a wider range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, and surgical procedures. Certificate programs, on the other hand, focus on the specific skills needed to work as a surgical technologist.

Accreditation

When choosing a surgical tech program, it is important to make sure that the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). CAAHEP accreditation ensures that the program meets certain quality standards.

Accredited programs are more likely to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the field. They are also more likely to be recognized by employers.

Curriculum

The curriculum of a surgical tech program will vary depending on the type of program you choose. However, most programs will cover the following topics:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Surgical procedures
• Sterilization and disinfection
• Patient care
• Ethics

Clinical Experience

Clinical experience is an essential part of any surgical tech program. It allows students to apply the skills they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

Most programs require students to complete a certain number of clinical hours before they can graduate. Clinical hours can be completed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for surgical technologists is excellent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of surgical technologists will grow by 9 percent from 2020 to 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing number of surgeries being performed.

Surgical technologists are in high demand in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers. They are also employed by the military and government agencies.

Salary

The salary of a surgical technologist can vary depending on their experience, location, and employer. However, the median annual salary for surgical technologists was $49,780 in May 2020.

The following table shows the median annual salary for surgical technologists in different regions of the United States: