Surgical Tech Program
Associate of Occupational Science Degree in Surgical Technology
Now Offering Night and Weekend Classes!
Embark on an exciting journey toward a rewarding career in Surgical Technology, one of the fastest-growing fields in healthcare*. With the increasing demand for skilled surgical technologists, graduates of this program are well-positioned to enter a high-demand job market. Whether assisting in life-saving procedures or preparing operating rooms for complex surgeries, surgical technologists play a vital role in modern medicine.
*According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Program Overview
The Associate of Occupational Science (AOS) Degree in Surgical Technology at CNI College offers a comprehensive blended program that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical practice. The 1,730-hour program is designed to equip students with the skills, attitudes, and knowledge required to become competent and safe surgical technologists. Delivered only in English, this program prepares students for entry-level roles in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, medical centers, and surgical centers.
Program Highlights
- Blended Delivery: Combines online learning with in-person labs and clinical practice.
- Program Length: 18 months (79 weeks)*
- Certification Requirement: Students must complete the National Certification Examination administered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
- Externship Experience: Includes a mandatory 600-hour externship.
- Accreditation: Programmatically accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
*Program length may vary based on student schedule, transfer credits, and holidays.
Program Outcomes and Certification
Graduates of the AOS Surgical Technology program are prepared to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in surgical procedures and patient care.
- Sit for the National Certification Examination (included in tuition).
- Pursue entry-level positions in healthcare facilities, including hospitals and surgical centers.
Participation in the certification examination is mandatory for graduation. The exam is proctored on campus and includes orientation sessions to ensure student readiness.
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Curriculum and Schedule
The program’s curriculum includes six quarters of coursework covering general education, anatomy, surgical procedures, and clinical skills. Each quarter blends online theory with in-person labs and externship experiences.
Class Schedule
- Quarters 1 & 2: General education courses such as Computer Applications, Anatomy & Physiology, and English are delivered online and on campus.
- Quarters 3-5: Focus on surgical theory and lab work with both online and in-person instruction.
- Quarter 6: Advanced theory and lab work, culminating in externship preparation.
Surgical Technology Curriculum
This course is designed to introduce the student to the online learning environment and the use of technology (e.g. laptop computer, Microsoft programs, Canvas, computer based learning resources MyITlab, internet search, LIRN, academic honesty/plagiarism). Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate proficient computer application skills permitting academic success (online and in the classroom) through the use of electronic learning resources. This course is residential. This course consists of a total of 40 theory hours.
This course reviews basic English concepts and introduces students to college level writing with an emphasis on basic grammar and composition. Students will apply their learning to a variety of writing activities emphasizing the development of paragraphs and essay. This course is delivered as a Distance Education (online) course.
This course presents the fundamental concepts of a pre-algebra course. Students will be introduced to the concepts of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratio and proportion, integers, order of operations, percent, signed numbers, measurements, geometry, statistics, probability, and basic algebra concepts. This course is delivered as a Distance Education (online) course.
This course is a study of the following topics and human systems: definition of anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, the cell, tissues, cellular metabolic, skin, muscle, bone, nervous system, eye and ear anatomy and function, endocrine system, blood components, circulatory system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system and reproductive system. The functions and interrelationships of these systems are studied. This course emphasizes the homeostatic nature of these systems with reference to human disease states. This course is delivered as a Distance Education (online) course.
A continuing of the systems of the human body that include: respiratory system, urinary system and reproductive system. This course emphasizes the homeostatic nature of these systems with reference to human disease states. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course includes an introduction to medical terminology based on anatomy and physiology. Emphasis is placed on medical word roots, combining forms, prefixes and suffixes and body structure. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course presents an overview of the legalities, documentation, risk management and ethical behavior associated in the surgical environment. The AMA codes of ethics and OSHA regulations as they apply to the surgical unit are covered. Discussion and understanding of the American Hospital Association’s, Patient’s Bill of Rights is also covered. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
An introduction to the principles and concepts which are basic to understanding human behavior. A general overview of the research methods and major research findings of psychology are presented, as well as a survey of current theories used to interpret these findings. Topics covered include methodology, physiology, learning, perception, and cognitive processes, development, motivation and emotion, personality, abnormal behavior, therapy and social psychology and death and dying. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is an introduction to the causes of disease and pathological conditions of the body and the body’s response mechanisms, both adequate and inadequate. Common diagnostic and treatment modalities also will be discussed. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is a study of basic microbiology, infection control, and disease processes of the body. The principles of medical and surgical asepsis will be demonstrated. Sanitizing, disinfection, and different modes sterilization is discussed. Blood borne pathogens will be included. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is the study of drugs with emphasis on concepts related to steps in the drug cycles and side effects. Students will learn major classifications of drugs and usual drug choices for selected diseases and pathological conditions. They will learn appropriate terms, abbreviations, equivalents and math concepts in calculations of dosages. Different modes of anesthesia will be discussed. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to orient the student to surgical technology and provide a comprehensive knowledge of patient care concepts, as well as personal and professional relationships in surgical technology. It will go over preoperative routines, PACU, and perioperative case management. The scope of practice for a surgical technologist is discussed. The principles of medical and surgical asepsis will be demonstrated along with proper opening of surgical packs, growing, sterile gloving, and setting up a sterile field. It will also go over the assistant circulator role. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is a study of basic microbiology, infection control, and disease processes of the body. Sanitizing, disinfection, and different modes of sterilization are discussed. Blood-borne pathogens will be reviewed. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to evaluate the students in his/her knowledge and skills in various surgical instrumentation, classifications, common names and usage. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course introduces the student to computer hardware and software programs. Emphasis is placed on the development of word processing skills, which include techniques for creating, editing, saving and printing documents. Also includes the safety factors regarding bio-physical practices in the OR. Electricity, mechanical robotics, sterilization, chemical, heat, gases, and sounds and vibrations are some of the concerns discussed for patient safety. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course introduces the student to types of wounds, healing process, classification, wound management, common suture types, suture classification, usage, tissue replacement material and various types of stapling devices. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course introduces the student to various types of drainage systems, usage classification, surgical counts, types of dressings and sponge usage in various procedures. Transferring of patients and emergency procedures with review of vital signs and anesthesia concepts. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in diagnostic, specimens, general and pediatric surgery for the surgical technologist. Diagnostic and surgical interventions are taught. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in diagnostic OB/GYN, and Urologic surgical procedures for the surgical technologist. Diagnosis and surgical interventions, along with specimens are taught. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific orthopedic and oral/maxillofacial surgical procedures for the surgical technologist. Diagnosis, surgical interventions and specimens are taught. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific neurological, and ophthalmic surgical procedures for the surgical technologist. Diagnosis, surgical interventions and specimens are taught. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in diagnostic, plastic and reconstructive, and Otorhinolaryngology surgical procedures for the surgical technologist. Diagnosis, surgical interventions, and specimens are taught. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in diagnostic, peripheral vascular and cardiothoracic surgical procedures for the surgical technologist. Diagnosis, surgical interventions, and specimens are taught. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in general, OB/GYN, ENT, plastic and reconstructive surgery, genitourinary surgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and peripheral vascular surgery procedures for the Surgical Technologist. The students will implement aseptic techniques in set-ups and steps of the procedure. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in general, OB/GYN, ENT, plastic and reconstructive surgery, genitourinary surgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and peripheral vascular surgery procedures for the Surgical Technologist. The students will implement aseptic technique in set-up and steps of procedure. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in general, OB/GYN, ENT, plastic and reconstructive surgery, genitourinary surgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and peripheral vascular surgery procedures for the Surgical Technologist. The students will implement aseptic technique in set-ups and steps of the procedures. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
This course is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills for specific surgical procedures in general, OB/GYN, ENT, plastic and reconstructive surgery, genitourinary surgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and peripheral vascular surgery procedures for the Surgical Technologist. The students will be tested on various types of procedures where the students will implement aseptic technique in set-up and steps of the procedures prior to being assigned to a clinical externship rotation. Students will go through a review process of course content in preparation for the CST exam. This course is residential.
Standard CPR, AED and First Aid material is presented and students practice techniques leading to a required certification for program completion. This course is residential.
Career Development emphasis is placed on assessing personal strengths, career expectations, developing job search techniques resume’ preparation and interviewing strategies. This course is residential.
This course is conducted in an appropriate hospital/surgical facility and provides students a clinical experience with a variety of perioperative assignments. Emphasis is placed on the scrub and circulating roles of the surgical technologist including aseptic technique and basic care presentation for selected surgical procedures. The externship is residential. Students will observe and take part in surgical procedures and learn to work as a member of the surgical team meeting all of the required case – loads and 600 externship hours. Every two hundred hours the student will be evaluated and receive a grade for their externship and documented as follows:
• ST 601-1 Grade
• ST 601-2 Grade
• ST 601-3 Grade
Students will attend a capstone class covering all surgical technology concepts from anatomy and physiology and basic science through mock surgical procedures. This course will review medical terminology, medical law and ethics, patient psychology, disease processes and pathophysiology, microbiology, pharmacology and anesthesia, introduction to surgical technology and asepsis, sterilization, surgical instrumentation, biomedical science, sutures, staples, and would healing, drains, tubes, catheters, sponges, and dressings, general pediatric surgery, OBGYN and urology surgery, orthopedic surgery, plastic, head and neck surgery, vascular surgery, CPR, and career development. This course will prepare student for the National CST exam. All students must score 90% or above on the practice CST tests in order to be registered for the NBSTSA exam. The capstone is residential.
Externship
Students participate in a 600-hour, non-compensated externship during the final phase of the program. Externships are scheduled Monday through Sunday and require a commitment of at least 32 hours per week. Transportation and associated expenses are the student’s responsibility.
Capstone Course
As a culminating experience, the capstone course provides students with an opportunity to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program. The capstone emphasizes preparation for the National Certification Examination and includes online sessions held weekly. This course ensures students are confident and well-prepared for the transition into professional practice.
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Faculty
The Surgical Technology program is supported by a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members. Each instructor is selected based on their academic qualifications, professional certifications, and industry expertise. Faculty bring a balance of theoretical knowledge and real-world application to the classroom, ensuring students receive a high-quality, practical education.
CNI College fosters an environment of academic freedom, cultural diversity, and intellectual exploration, empowering faculty to deliver exceptional education. Faculty members work closely with students to provide mentorship and guidance throughout the program.
Faculty Profiles
Director of AOS Surgical Technology, Clinical Coordinator, Theory Faculty
Premier Career College, Concorde Career College
Associate Director of AOS Surgical Technology, Theory Faculty
Concorde Career College, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Clinical Faculty, Theory
Newbridge College, Concorde Career College
Theory Faculty
University of Santo Tomas, University of the East
Clinical Faculty
Newbridge College, Santa Ana College
Facilities and Resources
CNI College is located in Santa Ana, CA, and offers a state-of-the-art campus with over 52,000 square feet of classrooms, laboratories, and student resources.
Facilities Include
- Fully equipped surgical and nursing simulation labs.
- Computer labs and an on-campus library with internet access.
- Online access to the Library Information Resources Network (LIRN) for academic research.
- Career Services, Financial Aid Advisors, and Student Services for ongoing support.
- Ample parking and 24/7 campus security.
Accreditation and Approvals
The Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). CNI College also holds approvals from the following organizations:
- Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE)
- California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education (CSAAVE)
- United States Department of Education
Memberships
- California Association of Private Postsecondary Schools (CAPPS)
- Association of Surgical Technologists (AST)
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Admissions Requirements
To enroll in the AOS Surgical Technology program, applicants must:
- Be at least 17 years old.
- Provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent (e.g., GED).
- Pass the Wonderlic (SLE) exam with a minimum score of 17 (or equivalent SAT/ACT scores).
- Complete a personal interview with an Admissions Advisor.
- Fulfill financial arrangements and submit required health screenings, immunizations, and a background check.
- Attend mandatory orientations for blended learning and program-specific requirements.
For detailed admissions policies, including requirements for distance education, please contact our Admissions Office.
Program Outcomes and Certification
Graduates of the AOS Surgical Technology program are prepared to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in surgical procedures and patient care.
- Sit for the National Certification Examination (included in tuition).
- Pursue entry-level positions in healthcare facilities, including hospitals and surgical centers.
Participation in the certification examination is mandatory for graduation. The exam is proctored on campus and includes orientation sessions to ensure student readiness.
Student Support Services
CNI College is dedicated to student success, offering a variety of resources to support both academic and personal growth:
- Career Services: Assistance with job placement and interview preparation.
- Student Services: Guidance on academic advising, childcare, transportation, and counseling.
- Financial Aid Advisors: Help with financial planning and federal aid applications.
- Library Access: On-campus and online library services for research and study support.
Why Choose CNI College?
CNI College is committed to providing high-quality education that aligns with industry standards and equips students for success. With experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive support services, students can achieve their career goals in Surgical Technology. Additionally, night and weekend classes are now available, making it easier for working professionals to pursue their education.
