Menu Open Search

Surgical Technology

Associate in Applied Science

Overview

The Associate in Applied Science with a Major in Surgical Technology will provide students with the surgical technology skills needed for employment in medical facilities. Upon successful completion, the student will be eligible to take the national certification exam administered through The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

Students applying for any of the Health Science Programs must go through a separate application process after being admitted to the college. There are additional requirements in order to qualify for admission to each of these programs. The competitive admissions criteria are updated annually and students should review the current information for changes in the admissions process. Information packets detailing the application process for each competitive admissions program are available on the ATC website.

This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), on recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC-STSA). Graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam. Students will be required to participate in off-campus training in working clinical facilities therefore students will need reliable transportation, since assigned clinical sites are off campus.

Download Academic Map

Download Admission Info & Application 

Accreditation

The Surgical Technology program at Aiken Technical College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA).

CAAHEP

9355 113th Street N., #7709
Seminole, FL 33775-7709   
727-210-2350
https://www.caahep.org/ 

 

ARC/STSA

6 W. Dry Creek Circle, Suite #110
Littleton, CO 80120
P:303-694-9262
E: info@arstsa.org

https://www.arcstsa.org/

Program Outcomes

Surgical Technology Program Outcomes 2021-2025 

Program Outcomes2021 Annual Report2022 Annual Report2023 Annual Report2024 Annual Report2025 Annual Report
Academic Year2020-20212021-20222022-20232023-20242024-2025
Student Graduation Rate67%81%83%100%85%
CST Exam Participation Rate100%100%100%100%100%
CST Exam Pass Rate60%30%40%70%59%
Additional Documents

Program Documents

Completion Time
2 Years, Full Time
Estimated Tuition*
$15,000
*Estimate (before aid) for Residents of Aiken County (SC), Richmond County (GA), and Columbia County (GA), not including fees.
Apply Get More Info

Where can I go from here?

Career Paths
Surgical Technician Sterile Processing Technician
Estimated Salary
Entry level: $50,100 Average salary range: $56,800 - $88,600

Surgical Technology Program FAQs

Where do the salary and career information come from?

Career options listed are not comprehensive and just examples of careers related to the programs. Average salary range source: JobsEQ®, Spring 2026 Disclaimer: Graduates in this field can pursue careers with competitive earning potential. Salary figures presented are estimates for informational purposes only. Actual earnings and employment outcomes may vary based on factors such as industry, experience, education, location, and individual performance. Aiken Technical College does not guarantee salary or employment.

What role does a surgical technologist play during procedures?

Surgical technologists assist in the operating room by preparing instruments, maintaining sterile environments, and supporting surgeons during procedures.

What are the admission requirements, and is the program competitive?

Yes, the Surgical Technology Program is competitive. Admission requirements, including prerequisite coursework and minimum GPA criteria, are outlined in detail within the Surgical Technology application packet. We encourage prospective students to carefully review the application for specific eligibility requirements and deadlines to ensure they meet all criteria prior to applying.

How many clinical hours are required, and what is the weekly time commitment?

For the Sterile Processing program, students are required to complete 400 hours of hands-on clinical training during the spring and summer semesters. Clinical rotations are scheduled two days per week, allowing students to gain practical, real-world experience in a healthcare setting. For the Surgical Technology program, students must complete a minimum of 120 surgical cases throughout the spring and summer semesters. Clinical rotations are also held two days per week, providing students with consistent operating room experience and the opportunity to develop the technical and professional skills required for success in the surgical environment.

Still have questions?

Reach out to our program contact.

staff fallback

Jennifer P Mamo

Health Sciences

Instructor, Surg Tech

D-214

+1 803-508-7499

Email

Get help paying for classes.

Find out what kind of aid is available to help cover the cost of Surgical Technology classes at Aiken Technical College.

Explore Your Options

Aiken Technical College

2276 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Graniteville, SC 29829
803-593-9231

Contact Us

© 2026 Aiken Technical College. All rights reserved.

Website by Cyberwoven