Surgical Technology

Surgical Technology Courses

• •  

  • Code

  • Course

  • Credits

• • BIO 131

  • Anatomy & Physiology I w/ Lab

  • 4
  This course is an integrated study of the structure and function of the human body from the cellular level to the systemic level. Topics include: anatomical terminology, molecules, cells, basic histology, and organs. The integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems are also studied. Laboratory experience is correlated with classroom lecture; therefore, they are taken together as a single, 4-credit course. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised. Prerequisite: BIO 111 with “C” or better.
• • BIO 132

  • Anatomy & Physiology II w/ Lab

  • 4
  This course is an integrated study of the structure and function of the human body including the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Laboratory experience is correlated with classroom lecture; therefore, they are taken together as a single, 4-credit course. Prerequisite: BIO 131 with “C” or better.
• • CSI 101

  • Introduction to Computers

  • 3
  This course introduces the student to general topics about computers, including the impact of technology in a changing world, computer hardware, system and application software, databases, internet, networking, digital ethics and security. Students use word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software.
• • ENG 101

  • English Composition I

  • 3
  This course will emphasize developing the student’s ability to articulate his/her thoughts in writing a coherent, unified, and well- structured composition. The student will write a series of papers. The student will also learn the techniques needed to produce a library research paper. The required research paper is a major component of the course. Prerequisite: Completion of ENG 090 or placement into ENG 101.
• • ENG 102

  • English Composition II

  • 3
  A required course, which introduces the student to themes and techniques in the basic genres of literature: the short story, drama, and poetry. Expository papers may be written in response to ideas embodied in literature. Prerequisite: ENG 101 or permission of instructor.
• • IDS 167

  • First Year Seminar

  • 3
  First Year Seminar focuses on the student as a whole person. This is a reflective course where students apply skills and strategies to help them succeed, emphasizing goalsetting in their academic, personal, and professional lives. Students explore diversity and identity in the classroom, community, and beyond. Students develop best practices through critical self-analysis, identifying and assessing areas of improvement within multiple dimensions of wellness.
• • MAT 103

  • College Algebra

  • 3
  This college level algebra course expands upon a student’s knowledge by further developing algebraic concepts. Topics include graphing equations with an introduction to functions, factoring polynomials, operations on rational functions, simplifying rational exponents, and solving quadratic equations. Students will be required to complete homework assignments using a web-based computer program. Prerequisite: Appropriate score on the placement test or successful completion of MAT 097.
• • PSY 101

  • General Psychology

  • 3
  This course is an introduction to the basic concepts, major theories, different theoretical perspectives, and research methods in psychology. The focus is on theories of personality, motivation, learning, intelligence, emotions, developmental processes, physiological psychology, perception, and psychological assessment. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly recommended.
• • SUR 102

  • Microbiology for the Surgical Technologist

  • 2
  This course is a general study of common and newly emerging microorganisms and their characteristics in relation to health and control of disease. Special emphasis is placed on the concept of asepsis and the surgical environment. Focus will be on the Surgical Technologist’s role in maintaining aseptic technique with emphasis placed on safety and infection control. Prerequisites: Admission into the Surgical Technology Program. Corequisites: HSC 149 (or equivalent transfer), and PNU 111 (or equivalent), SUR 111, SUR 121.
  
• • SUR 108

  • Surgical Pharmacology

  • 1
  This course is designed to promote an understanding of the
  effects of pre-and post-operative drugs on the body systems of
  the surgical patient. Focus is also directed to drugs,
  intravenous fluids, and blood replacements as they are used
  intra-operatively, as well as the effects of anesthetic
  agents. This course includes an overview of pharmacology's history,
  development, and standardization and
  introduces measurement systems, conversions, and
  medical abbreviations. Specific surgical drugs are
  categorized, and the rationale is given for their use. Explains
  and emphasizes the medical and legal responsibilities of the
  surgical technologist regarding pharmaceuticals in surgery.
  Prerequisites: Admission into the Surgical Technology
  Program, BIO 111, HSC 107, HSC 140.
• • SUR 111

  • Surgical Technology I

  • 5
  This course is designed to introduce students to the principles and practice of Surgical Technology. Topics include: hospital organization and physical environment of the operation room; ethical, moral and legal issues; patient care and safety; asepsis and sterile technique; surgical pharmacology and anesthesia; preparation, care and handling of instrumentation, equipment and supplies used in the operating room; closure of the surgical wound, wound healing and wound classifications; and the development of a surgical conscience. Students will be introduced to the basics of preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative surgical case management. Prerequisites: Admission into the Surgical Technology Program. Co-requisites: HSC 149 and PNU 111 (or their equivalents), SUR 102, SUR 121.
• • SUR 121

  • Surgical Technology I Lab

  • 4
  This laboratory course is designed to complement and reinforce concepts covered in SUR 111 (lecture) by allowing the practice and return-demonstration of the principles and procedures related to the knowledge, skills, and techniques utilized during the surgical experience. Skills taught in this course include: preoperative patient care, principles of sterile technique, the surgical scrub, gowning and gloving (self & others), case set up, medication handling, counts, draping, proper instrument handling, and the establishment and monitoring of the sterile field. Students are also taught to work with sutures, instruments, and supplies in a non-patient contact environment. Successful completion of this course is required for clinical placement. Prerequisites: Admission into the Surgical Technology Program. Co-requisites: HSC 149, PNU 111 (or their equivalent), SUR 102, and SUR 111 (lecture).
• • SUR 241

  • Surgical Procedures II

  • 8
  This course focuses on advanced surgical procedures across multiple specialties, emphasizing anatomy, pathology, instrumentation, procedural sequence, and perioperative patient management. Students integrate theoretical knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and surgical techniques to anticipate the needs of the surgical team, support patient safety, and prepare for complex procedures across a variety of surgical specialties. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all first-semester Surgical Technology courses. Co-requisite: SUR 242 Clinical Education II.
• • SUR 242

  • Clinical Education II

  • 8
  This advanced clinical course provides students with the opportunity to apply and integrate knowledge and skills acquired throughout the Surgical Technology curriculum in a supervised clinical environment. Students participate as members of the perioperative team, demonstrating proficiency in aseptic technique, instrumentation, surgical case setup, and intraoperative assistance across a variety of surgical specialties. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking, efficiency, and increasing independence in the operating room while maintaining patient safety, sterile technique, and professional communication. Students gain experience in complex procedures, specialty rotations, and emergency situations, progressing toward entry-level competency as defined by ARC/STSA and NBSTSA Core Curriculum standards. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all first-semester Surgical Technology courses. Co-requisite: SUR 241 Surgical Procedures II.
• • SUR 251

  • Surgical Procedures III (Lecture)

  • 6
  This advanced course builds upon foundational surgical technology principles, focusing on complex and specialty surgical procedures. Emphasis is placed on the integration of advanced anatomy, pathophysiology, and procedural techniques across specialties including orthopedic, neurosurgical, thoracic, cardiovascular, peripheral vascular, and pediatric surgery. Students apply critical thinking and procedural sequencing skills to anticipate the needs of the surgical team in advanced operative settings. Topics include advanced instrumentation, specialty equipment, complex wound closure techniques, patient positioning, and perioperative management of high-acuity cases. This course reinforces professional, ethical, and safety standards while preparing students for entry-level practice and the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination. Prerequisites: Successful completion of SUR 241 and SUR 242. Co-requisite: SUR 252 Clinical Education III.
• • SUR 252

  • Clinical Education III

  • 5
  This capstone clinical course provides students with advanced, hands-on experience in the perioperative environment during the final rotation of the Surgical Technology Program. Building upon prior clinical training, students participate directly in surgical procedures across multiple specialties while demonstrating proficiency in sterile technique, instrumentation, procedural sequencing, and surgical team communication. Under the supervision of clinical preceptors and faculty, students apply theoretical knowledge from SUR 251 in real operating room settings. Emphasis is placed on anticipating surgical team needs, maintaining a safe and sterile environment, reinforcing professional behavior, and developing the critical thinking skills required for entry-level practice. This course enables faculty to evaluate clinical competency, readiness for graduation, and preparation for certification. Students are expected to meet advanced performance benchmarks, complete required case experiences, and demonstrate surgical conscience, accountability, and professional growth. Prerequisites: Successful completion of SUR 241 and SUR 242. Co-requisite: SUR 251 Surgical Procedures III