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Gain Cutting-Edge Experience in Surgical Technology

The associate in applied science (AAS) program in surgical technology at St. Louis Community College is designed to prepare students for a successful career as a surgical technologist. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, students develop the skills and expertise needed to excel in this in-demand field.

This program has special admission requirements. Please review the requirements checklist before submitting your application.

What is Surgical Technology at St. Louis Community College?

In the surgical technology program, students learn aseptic technique, instrumentation, surgical procedures and patient care through classroom instruction, laboratory practice and clinical experience. They also learn to anticipate the surgeon's needs and ensure quality patient care during operations while maintaining a sterile field.

This program prepares entry-level surgical technologists who are competent in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills) and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.

Students interested in this program should:

  • Work well with others in a team environment.
  • Have good manual dexterity.
  • Be able to stand for long periods of time.
  • Be able to function effectively under intense, stressful conditions.
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What Can You Do With a Surgical Technology Degree?

Surgical technologists are in demand in St. Louis, and STLCC graduates are highly sought after by local employers. The statistics below show the percentage of graduates who secured positions as certified surgical technologists or in a related field within one year of graduation.

  • Class of 2024 – 88% employed
  • Class of 2023 – 94% employed
  • Class of 2022 – 80% employed

Below are the pass rates for STLCC graduates completing the National Examination for the Certified Surgical Technologist offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

  • Class of 2024 – 82% pass rate
  • Class of 2023 – 72% pass rate
  • Class of 2022 – 80% pass rate

AAS in Surgical Technology

Cost of Attendance

As a student in the surgical technology program, you can expect to incur some fees and expenses while enrolled. These fees are approximate and subject to change.

Note: St. Louis Community College provides a comprehensive financial aid program. For more information, including a cost calculator, information on STLCC scholarships and FAFSA, please visit the enrollment services page. 

Current Approximate Tuition (Based on 63 Credit Hours)

Residency Status
Cost Per Credit Hour
In District $122 ($7,686 - based on 63 credit hours)
Out of District $171 ($10,773 - based on 63 credit hours)
Out of State $233 ($14,679 - based on 63 credit hours)
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Miscellaneous Fees

Type of Expense
Cost
Textbooks $350
Current Healthcare Provider CPR or Basic Life Support (BLS) $80 and up
Background Check and Drug Screen $85-$100
Medical Expenses Cost varies (physical form, vaccines, TB testing, health insurance)
Scrub Uniform $40
Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) Student Membership $45
Travel Expenses to Clinical Sites Cost varies (gas/transportation costs)
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Approximate Total Cost: Tuition and Miscellaneous Fees

Residency Status
Cost
In District Approximately $8,300
Out of District Approximately $11,375
Out of State Approximately $15,280
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Admission Requirements

Admissions Requirements and Prerequisites

You must satisfy the requirements and prerequisites for the surgical technology program prior to applying.

The program prerequisites are:

  • Completion of MTH 108 or two semesters of high school algebra with a "C" or better within the last five years
  • Completion of BIO 111 with a "C" or better within the last five years
  • An overall cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher

Admissions Process

Prior to application, we recommend that you meet with an STLCC academic advisor. The advisor can help you plan your courses, clarify program requirements and review your academic history as it relates to this program.

  • All applicants for the surgical technology program must first be admitted to St. Louis Community College.
  • Applications for this program are accepted on a continuing basis throughout the year.
  • Due to the popularity of this program, the number of qualified applicants may exceed the number of openings. Prospective students will then be put on a wait list on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Students need to meet with their academic advisor to fill out a surgical technology program application.
  • Applicants admitted to the program must attend a mandatory orientation session prior to the fall semester. The specific date, time and location of the orientation are included in the admissions letter sent each spring.

Clinical Experience

When you are enrolled in the associate program, you will have the entire second year to gain experience at a clinical site, passing instruments and assisting the surgeon.

Prior to attending clinical education, you will be required to:

  • Submit proof of current Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR for Healthcare Providers.
  • Submit a completed health history, including all immunizations and physical examination.
  • Submit a negative tuberculosis (TB) test.
  • Undergo a background check and drug screen through a College-approved company before the start of the fall semester. Students who do not pass may be unable to participate in clinical education, which will prevent them from completing the program.
  • Meet technical standards related to observation, communication, motor skills, behavioral and social attributes.

The above requirements will be discussed at length during the orientation session. It is not required to complete these items prior to entry in the program.

Students will have the opportunity to attend a clinical site under the supervision of an instructor and staff preceptors. Students will perform as members of the operating room team. Below is a list of affiliated clinical sites:

Alton Memorial Hospital Mercy Hospital Jefferson SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital - Lake Saint Louis
Anderson Hospital Mercy Hospital South St. Louis SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - St. Louis
Barnes-Jewish Hospital Mercy Hospital St. Louis HSHS St. Elizabeth's Hospital
Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital Mercy Hospital Washington St. Louis Children’s Hospital
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital Missouri Baptist Medical Center SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital
Memorial Hospital Belleville Progress West Hospital St. Luke’s Des Peres Hospital
SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital SSM Health St. Clare Hospital St. Luke’s Hospital
Christian Hospital Northeast SSM Health DePaul Hospital  
John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital  
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Check All Program Requirements

Why You Should Choose STLCC's Surgical Technology Program

Teacher and Student

Build Skills for a Career in Health Care

Not only will you learn the technical aspects for a career in surgical technology, you will also develop in other necessary areas, including in communication and teamwork, as well as professional accountability and ethics.

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Hands-on Experience at Local Hospitals

With affiliations with over 25 clinical sites, STLCC's surgical technology AAS program offers you the opportunity to gain hands-on, real-world experience in a variety of environments.

Students in a lunchroom

Rewarding Career Opportunities

Graduation from the program will allow you to quickly and easily find employment in a rewarding health care field, providing essential support to surgeons and ensuring the proper care of patients in need.

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Caring for Students

STLCC goes beyond academics with support services, ranging from stress and anxiety management to grants for childcare, emergency crisis support, clothing and free meals through Archers' Market and Brown Bag Café food pantry.

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