If you’ve been considering a career in healthcare, specifically in the surgery department, becoming a surgical technologist might be on your radar. Surgical techs, also known as scrub techs, play a critical role in the operating room. They’re the ones making sure everything is clean, prepped, and ready for the surgeon to work their magic. But how long does it actually take to become a surgical tech? Luckily, it’s faster than you might think, and it’s a great option for anyone looking to enter the medical field without spending years in school.
Here’s a simple breakdown of everything you need to know about the timeline, the schooling, and what to expect along the way.
How Long is Surgical Tech School?
The length of surgical tech school depends on the kind of program you choose, and you’ve got a few options. Each one has a different timeline, so you can pick what works best for you.
1. Certificate or Diploma Programs
If speed is your goal, a certificate or diploma program might be the way to go. These programs take 12 to 18 months to finish, depending on whether you’re studying full-time or part-time. They focus specifically on the skills and knowledge you’ll need to be successful, like learning how to sterilize tools, set up an operating room, and assist a surgeon during procedures.
For example, schools like Ultimate Medical Academy offer these fast-track options, and they’re a solid choice if you’re ready to get to work ASAP. Plus, many programs include hands-on training at a nearby hospital, so you can start building your confidence in a real-world setting.
2. Associate Degree Programs
Want to go a little deeper? An associate degree program is another option that takes about 18 to 24 months. These programs not only teach you the core surgical tech skills but also include general education classes, like English and anatomy.
This path can open up more opportunities for you down the road if you decide to specialize in areas like neurosurgery or cardiovascular surgery. Schools like Carrington College are known for offering strong associate degree programs with a good balance of classroom learning and clinical experiences.
3. Online Programs
Don’t want to give up your day job? Online surgical tech programs offer flexibility, especially for people juggling work or family commitments. Programs like Stepful’s Four-Month Online Surgical Tech Program allow you to take classes online for the first few months, then finish up with hands-on training locally. These programs can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months and are becoming more popular thanks to their convenience.
How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?
Certification is the extra step that will make you stand out as a surgical tech. Most employers prefer (and some require) surgical technologists to have certification. There are two main certifications to choose from:
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST): Offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.
- Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C): Offered by the National Center for Competency Testing.
Here’s how the timeline plays out:
- After Graduation: Once you finish your program, you’ll spend a few weeks gathering documents to apply for the exam. Applications usually take about 4–6 weeks to process.
- Studying and Testing: Plan for 2–4 weeks to study for the exam before taking it. The test itself only takes a day, and your results are available within 48 hours.
All in all, certification adds about 1–2 months to your timeline after school, but it’s absolutely worth it.
What About the Costs?
The cost of becoming a surgical tech can vary a lot based on where you go to school. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Certificate Programs: Cost anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000. These are often the most affordable option.
- Associate Degree Programs: Tuition can range from $6,000 to $45,000 at community colleges or universities.
Make sure to ask about scholarships or financial aid. Many schools also offer payment plans to help spread the cost. Some employers even reimburse tuition if you agree to work for them after graduating.
Is It All Worth It?
Absolutely. Surgical technologists have a front-row seat to medical miracles every day. The job is fast-paced, meaningful, and offers great job stability. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical techs make an average of $62,480 a year. Not bad for a career that doesn’t require four years of college! Plus, this field is growing, with demand expected to rise in the coming years.
Your Path to the OR Starts Here
The great thing about becoming a surgical tech is how flexible it can be, especially when it comes to balancing school with your current responsibilities. Part-time options are available for many programs, but they’ll understandably stretch out your timeline a bit. For example, a program that takes a year to finish full-time might take closer to two years if you’re attending part-time.
On the flip side, there are accelerated programs too, which pack the same material into a shorter timeframe. While these can be intense, they’re great if you want to jump into the workforce quickly.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling career in the healthcare field, now is the perfect time to start researching programs and certifications that align with what you need. Whatever path you choose, remember that every step you take brings you closer to making a real difference in people’s lives. Good luck on your surgical tech journey!