Surgical Technology - Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

Surgical Technology - Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

Classes Start January 13th

Our Surgical Tech Program in Texas is designed to help you learn the skills necessary to assist surgeons before, during, and after surgical procedures.

With an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology from The College of Health Care Professions, you will be able to apply for entry-level employment as a surgical technologist. On the surface, surgical technologists assist surgeons in surgery, but really they do much more. Surgical techs encompass roles and responsibilities in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of the surgical patient. In the preoperative phase, responsibilities range from preparing the operating room for surgical procedures, ensuring surgical equipment is functioning, and preparing sterile supplies and instruments using aseptic technique. In the intraoperative phase, the surgical tech’s responsibilities shift to anticipating the needs of the surgical team, passing instruments and supplies using the aseptic technique, and handling specimens. The postoperative phase shifts to include assisting in applying dressings to closed wounds, assisting with patient transfer, cleaning the operating room, and/or disinfecting and preparing instruments for sterilization.

As a surgical technologist, it is imperative to be able to anticipate a surgeon’s needs by utilizing active listening and critical thinking. At the College of Health Care Professions, we focus on teaching students how to develop these vital skills. The AAS Degree from CHCP's Surgical Technology program is designed to help you prepare to apply for an entry-level position as a surgical technologist.

Surgical Technology Programs in Texas | Our Locations

Surgical Technology Skills and Course Modules

Module IModule IIModule IIIModule IVModule VModule VIModule VIIModule VIIIModule IXModule X

Anatomy & Physiology A

APST 101A

Students will identify the following: Introduction to the Structural Units, Chemistry of Living Things, Cells, Tissues, Membranes, and Nutrition. Students will identify the following systems of the human body to include identifying the organs of each, describing their function, and defining disorders: Integumentary and Blood. Students will discuss Infection Control and Standard Precautions and learn about Genetics and genetically linked Diseases. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Law, Ethics, and Professionalism

STA 101

Students will learn the ethical and legal aspects of surgical technology as it relates to the patient and surgical team. Students will learn patient confidentiality, medical liability, and negligence. Students will learn the types of communication and the importance of communication with regards to patients, co-workers, and potential employers. Students will construct a professionally effective resume and will learn interviewing styles. Prerequisite: None

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Microbiology

STA 103

Students will learn to identify disease-producing microorganisms and how to prevent the spread of disease. Students will learn Cells and Cell Structures, Genetics and Classification of Organisms, Microbial Life and Growth, Infectious Disease Process, Control of Microbial Growth and Aseptic Technique, Human-Microbe Relationships, and Immunology. Students will study Bacteriology, Virology, Parasitology, and Wound Healing. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Critical Thinking*

CRT 100

This course introduces critical thinking skills. Students gain an introductory level experience in deductive/inductive reasoning skills. The student will discuss experiences of everyday life and the repercussions of decision-making at various levels. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Introduction to Surgical Technology

STA 100

Students will explain the history and development of the field of surgical technology, surgical team members and their roles, administrative personnel in the operating room, surgical conscience and aseptic techniques. Students will learn surgical technology theory and patient care concepts. Students will learn the applications of patient safety, patient transport, and patient positioning. Students will learn the decontamination/sterilization process and will study Maslow’s hierarchy of human needs, cultural competence, and special patient populations. Prerequisite: None

Lecture80hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours80hr.
Credits5 

English Composition*

ENGL 101

This course provides the student with instruction and practice in expository writing and emphasizes grammatical and mechanical accuracy and proper essay form. Emphasis is placed on clarity, logical organization, unity and coherence of central idea and supporting material. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Technological Sciences

STA 102

Students will learn basic computer and surgical applications and will learn basic terms and principles of electricity, physics, and robotics as they relate to safe patient care practices in the surgical environment. Prerequisite: None

Lecture24hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours24hr.
Credits1.5 

Introduction to Psychology*

PSYT 102

This course covers the interrelationship between biology and human behavior. Included in the course are theories involved in sensation and perception, consciousness, learning, memory, thought, language, mental abilities, motivation and emotion, effects of stress, personality traits, social psychology, and psychological disorders and their treatments. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Pharmacology

STA 104

Students will learn basic pharmacology, medication development, regulation, resources, pharmacology math and medication administration. Students will learn the generic and brand names, their categories, purpose, action, administration routes, and proper handling in order to provide safe patient care. Students will learn: Antibiotics, Diagnostic Agents, Diuretics, Hormones, Medications that affect Coagulation, Ophthalmic Agents, Fluids and Irrigation Solutions, and Antineoplastic Chemotherapy Agents. Students will also learn names and classifications of anesthetic and supplemental agents, as well as their purpose. Students will learn: Preoperative Medications, Patient Monitoring and Local and Regional Anesthesia, General Anesthesia, and Emergency Situations. Prerequisite: None

Lecture64hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours64hr.
Credits4 

Medical Terminology A

MTST 101A

Students will learn to interpret the language of medicine by combining prefixes, suffixes, and root words into medical terms. Students will learn the study of basic structures of medical words including prefixes, suffixes, roots, combining forms, plurals, pronunciation, spelling and the definitions of medical terms. Students will learn the body planes, body directions, and body cavities along with structures of the body such as cells, tissues, genetics, and glands. Students will learn types of diseases and associated transmission and outbreak. Students will also learn about congenital disorders. Emphasis is on building a professional vocabulary required for employment within the allied health care filed. Prerequisite: None

Lecture8hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours8hr.
Credits0.5 

College Mathematics*

POFM 102

This course covers basic mathematics including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Also covered is fraction notation and mixed numerals, decimals, ratios, rates and unit prices, proportions, solving various problems using percent equations and proportions, sales tax, commissions, and discounts, interest, data, graphs, and statistics, measurements, geometry, real numbers, algebra, and equations. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Fundamentals of Aseptic Technique

STA 200

Students will learn in-depth coverage of aseptic technique principles and practices, case planning and intraoperative routines, surgical instruments, surgical skin prepping and draping, infectious process, wound healing, diagnostic and assessment procedures, disaster preparedness and response, and creation and maintenance of the sterile field. Students will learn traffic patterns within the surgical suite, surgical suite preparations, proper aseptic technique, surgical hand scrub, sterilization principles, surgical conscience, assembling and packaging, proper wrapping techniques, and proper body mechanics. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A.

Lecture80hr.
Laboratory96hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours176hr.
Credits8.5 

Surgical Procedures I

STA 201A

Student will learn the introduction to surgical pathology and its relationship to surgical procedures; Emphasis on surgical procedures related to General Surgery, Gynecological and Obstetrical, Genitourinary, Ophthalmic, Ear, Nose, Pharynx, Larynx, Oral and Maxillofacial, Plastic/Reconstructive, and Emergency Trauma Surgery Students will learn the instruments, equipment and supplies required for safe patient care. Students will learn how to function in the role of a scrubbed surgical technologist. Students will learn how to properly prepare the surgical suite. Students will learn how to set up a back table and mayo-stand and will learn how to properly handle medications, catheters, drains, suture, blades and specimens. Students will learn how to properly perform transition followed by performing a “mock” surgery. Students will learn to perform in the circulator role to include proper transporting and positioning of the surgical patient and proper surgical prepping techniques. Students will learn how to take patient’s vital signs and will perform an insertion of a foley catheter. Students will learn how to properly perform post procedural actions. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200.

Lecture96hr.
Laboratory48hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours144hr.
Credits8 

Anatomy & Physiology B

APST 101B

Students will identify the following systems of the human body: Special Senses, Endocrine, Circulation and Blood Vessels, Lymphatic and Immunity, Digestive, Urinary/Excretory, Reproductive. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Medical Terminology B

MTST 101B

Students will learn to interpret the language of medicine by combining prefixes, suffixes, and root words into medical terms. Students will learn the study of basic structures of medical words including prefixes, suffixes, roots, combining forms, plurals, pronunciation, spelling and the definitions of medical terms for the following systems: Lymphatic and Immune, Digestive, Urinary, Eyes and Ears, Endocrine, and Reproductive. Students will learn the vocabulary related to Diagnostic Procedures, Nuclear Medicine, and Pharmacology. Emphasis is on building a professional vocabulary required for employment within the allied health care field. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Surgical Procedures II

STA 202A

Students will learn the introduction to surgical pathology and its relationship to surgical procedures; Emphasis on surgical procedures related to Minimally Invasive Endoscopic and Robotic-Assisted, Orthopedic, Peripheral Vascular, Thoracic and Pulmonary, Cardiac, Pediatric, and Neurosurgery. Students will learn the instruments, equipment, and supplies required for safe patient care. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B.

Lecture96hr.
Laboratory32hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours128hr.
Credits7 

Anatomy & Physiology C

APST 101C

Students will identify the following systems of the human body: Skeletal, Muscular, Central Nervous System, Peripheral and Autonomic System, Heart, and Respiratory System. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B.

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Medical Terminology C

MTST 101C

Students will learn to interpret the language of medicine by combining prefixes, suffixes, and root words into medical terms. Students will learn the study of the basic structure of medical words including prefixes, suffixes, roots, combining forms, plurals, pronunciation, spelling and definitions of medical terms for the following body systems: Skeletal, Muscular, Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Nervous, and Skin (Integumentary). Emphasis is on building a professional vocabulary required for employment within the allied health care field. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B.

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Clinical I

STAC 301

This course will provide actual hands on learning within an operating room and the central sterile processing department. Students will demonstrate correct case set-up, anticipation of surgeon’s needs, draping, counts, knowledge of medications, and dressing supplies. Students will play an active role in the operative procedure. Students will demonstrate knowledge of instrumentation and the decontamination and sterilization process. Students will spend time in the role of non-sterile surgical technologist. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C. Co-requisite: STR 101A.

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship192hr.
Total Hours192hr.
Credits4 

Professional Readiness A

STR 101A

This course is designed to provide the student a tool to evaluate their knowledge of the program’s subject matter. Students are tested on a variety of subjects related to Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Surgical Technology, Fundamentals of Aseptic Technique, Professional Development, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Surgical Procedures and Technological Sciences. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C. Co-requisite: STAC 301.

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Clinical II

STAC 302

This course will provide actual hands on learning within an operating room and the central sterile processing department. Students will demonstrate correct case set-up, anticipation of surgeon’s needs, draping, counts, knowledge of medications, and dressing supplies. Students will play an active role in the operative procedure. Students will demonstrate knowledge of instrumentation and the decontamination and sterilization process. Students will spend time in the role of non-sterile surgical technologist. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C, STAC 301, STR 101A. Co-requisite: STR 101B.

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship192hr.
Total Hours192hr.
Credits4 

Professional Readiness B

STR 101B

This course is designed to provide the student a tool to evaluate their knowledge of the program’s subject matter. Students are tested on a variety of subjects related to Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Surgical Technology, Fundamentals of Aseptic Technique, Professional Development, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Surgical Procedures and Technological Sciences. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C, STAC 301, STR 101A. Co-requisites: STAC 302.

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Clinical III

STAC 303

This course will provide actual hands on learning within an operating room and the central sterile processing department. Students will demonstrate correct case set-up, anticipation of surgeon’s needs, draping, counts, knowledge of medications, and dressing supplies. Students will play an active role in the operative procedure. Students will demonstrate knowledge of instrumentation and the decontamination and sterilization process. Students will spend time in the role of non-sterile surgical technologist. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C, STAC 301, STR 101A, STAC 302, STR 101B. Co-requisites: STR 101C.

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship256hr.
Total Hours256hr.
Credits5.5 

Professional Readiness C

STR 101C

This course is designed to provide the student a tool to evaluate their knowledge of the program’s subject matter. Students are tested on a variety of subjects related to Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Surgical Technology, Fundamentals of Aseptic Technique, Professional Development, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Surgical Procedures and Technological Sciences. Prerequisite: APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C, STAC 301, STR 101A, STAC 302, STR 101B. Co-requisites: STAC 303.

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

Clinical IV

STAC 304

This course will provide actual hands on learning within an operating room and the central sterile processing department. Students will demonstrate correct case set-up, anticipation of surgeon’s needs, draping, counts, knowledge of medications, and dressing supplies. Students will play an active role in the operative procedure. Students will demonstrate knowledge of instrumentation and the decontamination and sterilization process. Students will spend time in the role of non-sterile surgical technologist. Prerequisite: CRT 100, ENGL 101, PSYT 102, POFM 102, APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C, STAC 301, STR 101A, STAC 302, STR 101B, STAC 303, STR 101C. Co-requisites: STR 101D.

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship256hr.
Total Hours256hr.
Credits5.5 

Professional Readiness D

STR 101D

This course is designed to provide the student a tool to evaluate their knowledge of the program’s subject matter. Students are tested on a variety of subjects related to Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Surgical Technology, Fundamentals of Aseptic Technique, Professional Development, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Surgical Procedures and Technological Sciences. Prerequisite: CRT 100, ENGL 101, PSYT 102, POFM 102, APST 101A, STA 101, STA 103, STA 100, STA 102, STA 104, MTST 101A, STA 200, STA 201, APST 101B, MTST 101B, STA 202, APST 101C, MTST 101C, STAC 301, STR 101A, STAC 302, STR 101B, STAC 303, STR 101C. Co-requisites: STAC 304.

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

What Types of Skills Are Taught in the Surgical Tech Programs?

CHCP’s Surgical Technology Program is designed to help students develop the following skills and techniques:

  • Aseptic technique
  • Surgical techniques
  • Surgical procedures
  • Surgeon assistance and anticipation of surgeon needs
  • Instrument identification and usage
  • Instrument and environment disinfection, decontamination, and sterilization
  • Patient preparation and basic patient care
  • Ability to perform in the role of first scrub, second scrub, and non-sterile surgical technologist
  • Professionalism and responsible operating room behavior

Surgical technologists’ employment is expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all other occupations. This may be due to the fact that medical technology has advanced, making surgery safer thus a more likely chosen option to treat illnesses and injuries.1 To learn more about surgical technologist salary and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What Career Options Are Available After Surgical Tech School?

Surgical technologists tend to work in operating rooms (OR). Surgical techs with an AAS degree can apply to work in any of the following OR locations:

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient centers
  • Dental offices

Here is a list of some of the procedures surgical techs assist surgeons with:

  • Gastrointestinal upper endoscopies
  • Benign and malignant tumors
  • Tonsillectomies
  • Colonoscopies
  • Pacemaker implants
  • Dermatology (skin grafts, facelifts)
  • ACL repair
  • Root canal and other dental procedures
  • Cataract removal and laser vision correction
  • Carpal tunnel

If you would like more information on our certified surgical tech programs, simply fill out the form. Someone will be in contact with you soon on how to enroll in The College of Health Care Professions!

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How Do I Enroll in Surgical Tech School?

If the thought of working in an operating room, assisting surgeons, and serving as a part of the surgical team excites you, an AAS degree in Surgical Technology may be right for you. Enrollment in CHCP’s surgical tech program requires that you meet the following qualifications:

  • Possession of a high school diploma or GED
  • The ability to read and write in English
  • Possession of good coordination, health, and emotional stability
  • Exhibit neatness and professionalism
  • Pass the Scholastic Level Exam with a score of at least 19

Frequently Asked Questions About the Surgical Tech Program

How much does a surgical tech make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technicians is $60,610. Depending on experience and employer, this average can vary.

How long does it take to become a surgical tech?

To receive an associate degree from CHCP in Surgical Technology, students can complete the required classes, clinicals, and trainings in under 2 years. After graduating from the program, students are prepared to start pursuing entry-level surgical tech positions.

How much does it cost to become a surgical tech?

The cost to become a surgical tech depends on the specific program and the amount of financial aid and scholarships that an individual receives. CHCP's Surgical Technology Degree Program tuition is $38,950, not factoring in any of the grants and financial aid many students apply for. To find out how much students similar to you paid to attend CHCP, try our Net Price Calculator.

What other jobs can a surgical tech do?

There are many different career paths you can take as a surgical tech. Here are a few of the job paths and opportunities for surgical techs:

  • Operating Room Surgical Tech
  • Labor and Delivery Surgical Tech
  • Orthopedic Surgical Tech
  • Outpatient Surgical Tech

What is a certified surgical tech?

A certified surgical tech is a professional who has completed the necessary education and training through a surgical technology program and successfully passed the certification exam. This certification is usually awarded by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

What is the next step after becoming a surgical tech?

After graduating from a surgical tech program, a common next step is receiving additional certification and exploring specializations. With certifications, surgical techs can enhance their skills and qualifications which opens new career opportunities. Additionally, through specialization, surgical technicians gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in a particular surgical specialty. Some areas of specialization include cardiac surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, or ophthalmic surgery.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical tech?

As a surgical tech, it's crucial to understand a surgeon's needs and think critically to anticipate and seamlessly fulfill requests during surgical procedures, ensuring the smooth and efficient progress of the operation. CHCP's Surgical Technology Program teaches students the techniques and training they need to be qualified to work in a career as a surgical tech. Here are a few of the skills that CHCP gives students to ensure they are fully prepared to assist in operating rooms:

  • Aseptic technique
  • Identifying and handling various surgical instruments, understanding their uses, and being proficient in passing instruments to surgeons during procedures
  • Knowledge of common surgical procedures
  • Medical Terminology
  • Understanding and implementing measures for patient safety and comfort during surgical procedures, including proper positioning and skin preparation
  • Equipment Handling

What are the responsibilities of a surgical tech?

Surgical Tech responsibilities include assisting surgeons and providing care to patients starting at preoperative all the way to postoperative.

In the preoperative stage, tasks involve readying the operating room for surgery, ensuring the functionality of surgical equipment, and preparing sterile supplies and instruments with a focus on aseptic technique. During the intraoperative phase, the surgical tech duties shift to anticipating the requirements of the surgical team, employing an aseptic technique to pass instruments and supplies, and managing specimens. In the postoperative phase, responsibilities expand to assisting in applying dressings to closed wounds, aiding in patient transfer, cleaning the operating room, and/or disinfecting and preparing instruments for sterilization.

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