General Information
The Surgical Technology course prepares the student to be a integral member of the surgical team. A Surgical Technologist works closely with surgeons, anesthesiologist, registered nursing and other surgical personnel. They prepare the operating room with sterile supplies and are responsible for draping and prepping the surgical patient, maintaining the sterile field, passing instruments to the surgeon and mixing and dispensing appropriate fluids and drugs.
The program is 1180 hours that is completed in 9.5 months. Approximately 50% of the course is theory and 50% is clinical applications. Student must rotate through two larger area hospitals. Hospitals may require a background check prior to allowing a student to attend clinical activities in their facility. Commuting to regional and metro area facilities is required. Wes Watkins Technology Center Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Association of Surgical Technologists (see AST.org ) and is taught by a Certified Surgical Technologist. The program prepares the student to sit for the national certification exam through the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist. Only schools accredited by AST may take the national licensure exam.
Course Outline
- Intro to Surgical Technology
- Medical Terminology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Aseptic Techniques
- Patient Care
- Supplies and Equipment
- Surgical Procedures I
- Professional Preparation
- Surgical Procedures II
Students are required to pay the current tuition based on in-district or out-of-district residential status. An additional supply fee is also required. Total cost is estimated to be approximately $2,500-$3,000. Financial assistance is available and WWTC will assist students in applying.
Financial assistance through Pell Grants, Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grants (OTAG) and scholarships is available to those students who qualify. Financial aid applications are available in the student services office. Financial aid applications generally take a minimum of six weeks to process. Early applicants increase their chances of being awarded financial assistance. Other funding sources include Employment Security Commission, JTPA, Department of Human Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Tribal Agencies, Dislocated Worker, Vocational Rehabilitation, Veteran's Administration and Physician Manpower. Students should contact the appropriate agency.
When students complete the program, they become eligible to take the National Certifying Examination for Surgical Technologist. This certification is recognized nationally. This cost is approximately $155 to take this test. Although not required by all employers, National Certification is strongly encouraged.
Prepare for a Career...
- Hospital Surgery
- Trauma Centers
- Private Scrub Technician
- Free-standing Surgical Centers
- Obstetrical & Delivery Areas
- Organ & Tissue Procurement
- Central Sterile
- Sales Representative
College Credit
The Surgical Technology program has been approved and qualifies for college credit through a cooperative agreement with Seminole State College. Adult students may receive college credits for application toward an associate in applied science degree. High school students may receive advanced standing credit for their career and technology education courses after successfully completing 12 credit hours on the campus and paying the minimal transcription fees.
Student Organization
Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) is a service organization for students who are enrolled in health career programs. HOSA provides opportunities for students to enhance their personal and leadership qualities through individual and group projects and through skill competitions which are held on local, state and national levels.
Click here for more information on admissions and specific program information.
** Notice **
Due to the fact hospitals in the immediate WWTC community do limited amounts of surgery procedures, it may be necessary to relocate or commute to find employment in this occupational area.
For more info on Surgical Technology contact the instructor,
Natalie Kennedy at nkennedy@wwtech.org
