Eligibility Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Web browser with internet connection
- Course registration and payment
Online Surgical Technologist Certification Program
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that 8,700 new Surgical Tech careers are created each year. We'll help you land one!
Whether you're looking for your first or next career as a Surgical Technologist, Health Tech Academy's online Surgical Technologist certification program provides the skills and preparation to earn a career or promotion.
Your path to a better future starts now.
Request Info
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Training Length
16 Weeks
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Certifications
NRST
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Avg. Starting Salary
$59,000
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Issuing Authority
Become a Surgical Technologist in Weeks
Unlike traditional degree programs, our online Surgical Technologist certification prepares you for entry-level positions in hospitals, surgical centers, and physician's offices nationwide in a matter of months. It offers the flexibility of online learning while equipping you with the knowledge to pursue a career as a vital member of any surgical team.
- Prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment
- Sterilize and arrange surgical instruments for use during procedures
- Assist the surgical team by passing instruments and supplies during surgery
- Monitor the patient's vital signs during surgery and report any abnormalities
- Keep accurate records of surgical procedures, including instrument and supply use
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Begin the Self-Paced Bootcamp
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Schedule your 1-1 Coaching Sessions
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Complete Weekly Learning & Assessments
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Begin Exam Preparation Course
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Pass AAH's NRST Certification Exam
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Continued Support from Career Services & Mentors
What Does the Surgical Technologist Program Include?
Jumpstart your Surgical Technologist career with our intensive, 16-week bootcamp designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this fast-growing field.
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We are committed to guiding you every step of the way including the completion of the clinical requirements. However, please note that the responsibility to complete these requirements lies with you. We recommend researching for job posts and state requirements to ensure a seamless transition into the workforce upon graduation.
Meet Your Surgical Technologist Instructor
Aleyda Hernandez
Aleyda Hernandez is an esteemed Assistant Professor of Surgical Technology, bringing eight years of invaluable experience to her role. Specializing in orthopaedic surgery, she is a trusted preceptor for Surgical Technology students, guiding them towards excellence in their training. Aleyda's values are rooted in patient care, safety, and continuous learning, shaping her approach to education and operating room management. She holds an Associate of Science Degree in Surgical Technology, and beyond the surgical suite, she is deeply passionate about education and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and the healthcare industry.
What Will I Learn in a Surgical Technologist Program?
Our surgical technologist bootcamp combines self-paced online learning and on-the-job training to prepare you to land a job within weeks. You'll develop skills in surgical instrumentation, patient care, and various surgical techniques.
Courses
Embark on your journey into the world of surgical technology, exploring its history, professional responsibilities, and the crucial role surgical technologists play in the operating room. This foundational module sets the stage for your success in the program.
- Learn the history and evolution of surgical technology.
- Understand the professional standards and ethical considerations for surgical technologists.
- Explore the key members of the surgical team and their respective roles.
Master the critical principles of infection control and sterilization, essential for maintaining a safe surgical environment. Explore various diagnostic procedures and their importance in surgical planning.
- Learn the principles and methods of sterilization, disinfection, and antisepsis.
- Understand the sources and modes of disease transmission and how to prevent them in the OR.
- Explore common diagnostic procedures used in surgical settings, including imaging and laboratory tests.
Develop a deep understanding of patient care in the surgical setting, from pre-op preparation to post-operative recovery. This module covers patient safety, positioning, and emotional support.
- Learn about patient positioning techniques for various surgical procedures.
- Understand the importance of patient advocacy and maintaining patient confidentiality.
- Explore pre-operative and post-operative patient care procedures.
Develop essential hands-on surgical skills through virtual simulations and practical exercises. This module focuses on instrument handling, gowning and gloving, and maintaining a sterile field.
- Learn the techniques of surgical hand scrubbing, gowning, and gloving.
- Understand the proper handling and care of surgical instruments.
- Explore setting up and maintaining a sterile field.
Explore various surgical procedures and the specific techniques used in each. This module introduces you to common surgical specialties and their unique requirements.
- Learn an understanding of basic surgical procedures across different specialties.
- Understand about the instruments and equipment specific to each surgical specialty.
- Explore the principles of aseptic technique and their application in various procedures.
Expand your knowledge of surgical techniques with a focus on more complex procedures and advanced technologies. This module delves deeper into specialized surgical fields.
- Learn advanced surgical techniques and emerging technologies.
- Understand about minimally invasive surgical procedures and their benefits.
- Explore a deeper understanding of specialized surgical fields, such as cardiovascular or neurosurgery.
Milestones
Establish a strong foundation by completing the online training and engaging with industry experts.
- Complete all online modules, lesson quizzes, and course exams.
- Read the comprehensive surgical technologist eBook provided.
- Schedule and attend five mandatory coaching sessions with experienced surgical technologists.
Enhance your professional presence and plan your career trajectory with expert guidance.
- Collaborate with the career services team to build or refine your LinkedIn profile and resume.
- Develop a personalized career roadmap outlining your next steps in the surgical technology field.
- Complete all pre-externship requirements and an internal readiness checklist conducted by your coach.
Apply your knowledge in a real-world setting and validate your clinical competencies.
- Participate in a clinical apprenticeship, completing 125 surgical cases under the supervision of a qualified preceptor.
- Demonstrate proficiency in essential surgical skills and have your clinical skills checklist signed off.
- Maintain regular communication with your career services advisor throughout the apprenticeship.
Prepare thoroughly for the national certification exam to ensure success.
- Complete the official AAH self-assessment to identify areas of strength and improvement.
- Successfully pass practice exams to qualify for the certification exam voucher.
- Utilize insights from the self-assessment to focus your revision and enhance exam readiness.
Achieve certification and transition into a rewarding surgical technologist role.
- Pass the AAH certification exam to earn the Nationally Registered Surgical Technologist (NRST) credential.
- Leverage your certification to secure a full-time position as a surgical technologist.
- Use the NRST designation professionally, e.g., "Your Name, NRST," to signify your certified status.
Download the Surgical Technologist syllabus to view all courses and requirements.
Student Support Resources
Explore further learning assets, clinical resources, and post-graduation job placement opportunities.
Enhance your surgical technologist education with these valuable resources designed to support your learning journey and career development.
- Welcome Kits: Get started on the right foot with essential program information and resources conveniently compiled in one place.
- One-on-One Coaching: Receive personalized guidance and support from experienced professionals to address your individual learning needs.
- Online Learning Platform: Access course materials, assignments, and interactive learning tools anytime, anywhere.
- eBooks: Deepen your understanding of key concepts with comprehensive digital textbooks covering essential surgical technology topics.
- Procedure Videos: Visualize and learn surgical techniques through detailed video demonstrations of various procedures.
- Surgical Tech Skills Checklist: Track your progress and ensure you've mastered all necessary competencies with this helpful checklist.
- NRST Practice Exams: Prepare for the national certification exam with realistic practice tests that simulate the actual exam experience.
Launch your surgical technologist career with these dedicated job placement resources designed to help you secure a fulfilling position.
- Soft Skills Development: Enhance your communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills, crucial for success in the operating room environment.
- Resume Building: Craft a compelling resume that highlights your skills and experience, making you a standout candidate for surgical technologist positions.
- Interview Preparation: Prepare for job interviews with practice sessions and expert guidance, boosting your confidence and performance.
- LinkedIn Optimization: Create a professional LinkedIn profile to network with potential employers and showcase your qualifications to a wider audience.
- Professional Profile Construction: Develop a comprehensive professional profile that effectively communicates your skills and career goals to prospective employers.
- Employability Training: Gain valuable job search strategies and career development skills to navigate the job market successfully and secure your ideal surgical technologist role.
Where Will I Work as a Surgical Technologist?
Once certified, Surgical Technologists become eligible to work in a variety of clinical settings. Health Tech Academy's bootcamp prepares you to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and a variety of other healthcare facilities.
Free Career Assessment
Is Surgical Technologist the right allied health career path for you? Take our free career assessment to determine which healthcare career path is the best fit for you.
Free Career Assessment*All salaries according to 2025 estimates released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Tuition Advantage
Unlock your future in healthcare technology with flexible payment options including full payments, installment plans, and Study Now, Pay Later plans.
$2,900
$3,450
Use/mention discount code HTA550 to get $550 discount. Full tuition payment only.
- Free Laptop
- All Materials Included
- Exam Voucher Included
- Student & Career Support
- Certificate of Completion
- No Additional Fee
- No Interest
$265
/month
Deposit $265 today to enroll and pay $265 monthly for 12 months. Zero-interest, No credit checks!
- All Materials Included
- Exam Voucher Included
- 12 Customizable Payments
- Student & Career Support
- Certificate of Completion
- No Additional Fee
- No Interest
Payment Options
No credit check
Surgical Technologist Program Comparisons
| Feature |
|
Community College | Online Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program & Tuition Cost | $3,450 | $2,000 to $10,000/year | $8,000 to $19,000 per year |
| Books, Materials & Fees | Included | + $500 to $2,000 | + $500 to $2,000 |
| Certification Exams & Fees | Included | + $200 to $500 | + $200 to $500 |
| Job Ready Timeline | 4-6 months | 1 to 2 years | 6 months – 2 years |
| 100% Online | |||
| Schedule Flexibility | --- | ||
| 1-on-1 Coaching & Mentorship | |||
| Job Placement Assistance | --- | --- | |
| Clear Path to Certification | --- | --- | |
| No Travel Requirements |
Real People. Real Jobs. Real Salaries.
Success Stories from our Students
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2023 was a rough year for me. I lost a lot but I also gained a lot. I desperately needed to start working, but I wanted to spend my time on starting a career and not working a typical 9-5 that I won't grow in or be happy in. I decided to do research and stumbled upon Health Tech Academy. I gave them a call and I was very happy to know that it was at my own pace and I could get finished as quickly as I was capable. The only other thing I needed to figure out was the financial aspect of it, I was nervous about that. Luckily, there was an affordable payment plan! Because I have health care knowledge already, I was happy to see that I got through the program very quickly and was satisfied with the learning experience.
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As a single mother, who wants to further her career to better her child's life, I'm grateful I found this program! Before I even started attending the actual program, they were already willing to help accommodate my needs while working graveyard shifts. They constantly were reassuring and willing to help me reschedule my orientation date and time, answered all my questions thoroughly. I will definitely be referring my fellow medical field friends to this schooling website and to my other friends as well. I'm very excited for this journey, and again so grateful that this school is compassionate about their students and the students' needs.
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Health Tech Academy has been instrumental in guiding me towards a career in surgical technology. The program provided invaluable knowledge and equipped me with the skills needed to excel in this field. The experience has also sparked a passion for furthering my education in nursing. I'm grateful for the support and dedication of the instructors at Health Tech Academy. I highly recommend this rewarding educational institution to anyone interested in healthcare. Thank you, Health Tech Academy, for opening doors of opportunity and empowering me to pursue my goals in surgical technology and beyond.
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The online orientation was wonderfully presented, full of great information and contacts/resources available. This experience has been wonderful from the very start, and I wanted to thank you! Thank you, Health Tech Academy for answering any questions I had and for all the information clearly presented.
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Orientation was well put together. It wasn't too long or too short. Ms. Farzeen was great and fun to speak with. My expectations are to become one of the most valuable Surgical Techs. Also, elevate my career in the medical field.
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Health Tech Academy's surgical tech bootcamp has been a great program for me. I come here as a truck driver after leaving the medical field for 6 years. I didn't think I would remember or do anything in the medical field again but since day one, everyone have a great support to me and. The content has been very informative and the price is very affordable. I love being here, and also the fact that the course contnet is not time-consuming, as I have enough time to work and be with family but still learn. I appreciate everything you guys are doing for your students, thank you.
Gain the knowledge and skills you need for a job in healthcare – and the confidence to transform your career.
Schedule a call with one of our admissions advisors to get started.
Schedule a CallSurgical Technologist Certification Program FAQs
Reference common questions, and answers, about our surgical technologist program.
A Surgical Technologist program provides the education and training needed to assist surgeons during surgical procedures. You'll learn about surgical instruments, aseptic techniques, patient care, and various surgical procedures. Graduates are prepared to work in operating rooms, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities, playing a vital role in ensuring patient safety and successful surgical outcomes. These programs should culminate in students taking, and passing, the AAH exam to assume full surgical technologist duties.
Upon successful completion of all required courses and fulfilling all financial obligations, students will be eligible to sit for the Surgical Technologist Certification exam offered by American Allied Health (AAH). This exam assesses foundational knowledge and skills essential for entry-level surgical technologists. Once you pass the certification exam, you will earn the AAH Surgical Technologist Certification, demonstrating your readiness to begin a career in surgical technology.
The AAH Surgical Technologist Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates foundational knowledge and skills in surgical technology. Awarded by American Allied Health (AAH), this certification demonstrates a candidate's understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient safety practices. While it may not meet all state licensing requirements or be accepted by every employer, it can serve as an entry-level credential for those seeking to start a career as a surgical technologist. Earning this certification shows a proactive approach to professional development and can enhance job prospects in facilities that recognize AAH credentials.
Health Tech Academy's Surgical Technologist program offers the flexibility of self-paced learning, allowing students to progress at their own speed. However, the program is designed to be completed in just 16 weeks, a significantly shorter duration than many other programs, enabling students to enter the workforce more quickly.
Health Tech Academy offers a competitive, transparent pricing structure for its Surgical Technologist Program. Our program is available for a one-time payment of $2,900, providing a convenient and cost-effective option. You can choose a flexible payment plan with a low deposit of just $250 to enroll today, followed by monthly payments of up to $266 for 12 months.
We also offer customized payment plans to accommodate individual budgets, making our program accessible to a wider range of aspiring surgical technologists.
Health Tech Academy offers a competitive, transparent pricing structure for its Surgical Technologist Program. Our program is available for a one-time payment of $2,900, providing a convenient and cost-effective option. You can choose a flexible payment plan with a low deposit of just $250 to enroll today, followed by monthly payments of up to $266 for 12 months.
We also offer customized payment plans to accommodate individual budgets, making our program accessible to a wider range of aspiring surgical technologists.
Health Tech Academy offers a refund policy for its Surgical Technologist Bootcamp. You can cancel your enrollment within three days of signing up for a full refund. After this three-day period, the enrollment fee becomes non-refundable, so please visit our support page for complete details.
The NRST by AAH certification training program does not require an externship to become fully certified. Students simply need to complete Health Tech Academy's (HTA) online training program and pass the NRST exam. In all states where the program is offered, students who meet these requirements are eligible to apply for sterile processing roles without the need for an externship.
However, if a specific employer requests hands-on experience, HTA's Career Services Team is more than happy to help. While HTA does not guarantee externship placement, our team actively supports students by:
- Connecting them with potential externship opportunities through our network of affiliated sites
- Assisting with the application and onboarding process
- Providing ongoing guidance throughout the experience
Our goal is to help students gain any additional experience they may need to meet employer requirements and feel confident entering the workforce.
Surgical technologists are essential members of the surgical team who prepare the operating room, sterilize instruments, and assist surgeons during procedures. They ensure a safe and sterile environment for surgery while also providing patient care before, during, and after the operation. Their expertise and attention to detail are crucial for successful surgical outcomes.
Surgical technologist salaries can vary based on location, experience, and certifications, but they typically earn a competitive wage. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual salary for surgical technologists of roughly $60,000; you can find updated information on their website. Factors like overtime, shift differentials, and the specific healthcare facility can also influence earning potential.
Prior healthcare experience is NOT required to enroll in Health Tech Academy's Surgical Technologist Certification Program or to sit for the AAH NRST certification exam. While having prior clinical experience can be preferred by some employers, it is not a mandatory requirement to start the program. Our comprehensive training equips you with the knowledge, skills, and practical competencies needed to build a successful career as a surgical technologist, even if you're entering the healthcare field for the first time.
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