What is a surgical technologist?
How does this program prepare me for a career?
What professions can I expect to enter after completing this program?
What about starting salary?
What is the employment outlook for the next decade?
What are the application procedures for the program?
Is this program accredited?
Whom do I call for more information?

What is a surgical technologist?
The surgical technologist is an integral member of the surgical team who works closely with surgeon, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel in the care of patients before, during, and after surgery. The surgical technologist’s primary responsibilities include preparing the operating room for the surgical procedure, including all instruments, supplies and equipment for use, and anticipating the surgeons needs. Throughout the procedure the surgical technologist vigilantly monitors the sterile field, prepares and care for specimen’s taken for laboratory analysis.

How does this program prepare me for a career?
Technologists may obtain voluntary professional certification from the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist after graduating from the program and passing a national certification examination. Technologists may then use the designation certified surgical technologist, or CST.

What professions can I expect to enter after completing this program?
Surgical technologists are employed by hospitals, mainly in operating and delivery rooms. Others are employed in clinics and surgical centers, and in the offices of physicians and dentists who perform outpatient surgery. Career rewards include opportunities for diversity and advancement.

What about starting salary?
The median annual earnings of surgical technologists is approximately $27,780.00 -$35,000.00.

What is the employment outlook for the next decade?
Employment of surgical technologists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2008 as the volume of surgery increases. The number of surgical procedures is expected to rise as the population grows and ages. Technological advances, such as fiber optics and laser technology, will also permit new surgical procedures to be performed.

What are the application procedures for the program?
Admission to Montgomery College is open to all. Math, English, and Reading assessment tests are required prior to registering. (Some students may be exempt from assessment. Consult the Montgomery College Catalog for criteria.) Financial aid and scholarships are available to qualified candidates.

Is this program accredited?
Accredited by The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

Whom do I call for more information?
Surgical Technology Programs Website:
Ms. Patrice Upshaw, Surgical Program Coordinator, at Takoma Park/Silver Spring, 240-567-5541.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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