Surgical Technologist Online Course
The Surgical Technologist online course offers a flexible and accessible path to a healthcare career. This certificate course introduces you to the essential skills, tools and responsibilities of a surgical technologist. You'll learn through engaging online coursework, receive one-on-one support and have the opportunity to participate in a volunteer externship to gain valuable experience. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared to pursue national certification and entry-level roles in surgical care.
Online Course
Take the course online, on your schedule
How to Register
How to start taking the online course
Contact Us
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About the Online Course
Benefits of the Surgical Technologist Online Course
Flexible, Online Learning
Complete your training on your schedule with a mobile-ready course format, perfect for busy adults or those balancing work and family.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Gain a strong foundation in medical terminology, anatomy, infection control, surgical instruments and the role of the surgical technologist in the operating room.
National Certification Preparation
Prepare to sit for industry-recognized certification exams.
All-Inclusive Program
Your tuition covers everything you need to succeed: textbooks, learning materials and 24/7 learner support.
Real-World Experience
Apply your skills in a clinical setting through an optional volunteer externship arranged with a local partner organization.
Career-Ready Skills
Prepare for roles such as Surgical technologist, Operating Room Assistant or Endoscopy Technician.
No Admission to SFSU Required
You don’t need to be an admitted degree-seeking student to enroll. A high school diploma or GED is required.
Cost and Length
Cost: $1,999
Length: 4 - 6 Months
When to Start: Self-Paced, Start Any Time
Payment Plan
Health Ed Today offers 3-, 6- and 10-month payment plans.
Certification Opportunities
When you complete the Surgical Technologist Certificate Program at SFSU, you may be eligible to sit for a national certification exam if you meet the required criteria. Certification options may include:
- American Allied Health Surgical Technologist Certification
- National Workforce Career Association Surgical Technologist Certified
- National Center for Competency Testing Tech in Surgery Certified
Each certifying body sets its own requirements. You may need to complete a clinical externship, document hands-on scrub experience or verify employment experience. You are responsible for reviewing current eligibility requirements and maintaining your certification once it is awarded.
NCCT Tech in Surgery Certified Credential
If you plan to pursue the NCCT Tech in Surgery Certified credential, you must:
- Successfully complete the SFSU Surgical Technologist Certificate Program
- Receive your certificate of completion from SFSU
- Complete a mandatory externship and 125 surgical cases
- Submit required documentation to NCCT, including verification of critical skills
When you complete this program, you qualify under the Graduate Pathway described by NCCT. You should review all current eligibility criteria and required forms on the NCCT website before you apply.
This program is not an associate degree program and is not approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Career Paths
After you complete the program, you may pursue roles such as:
- Surgical Technician
- Operating Room Assistant
- Surgical Scrub Technician
- Perioperative Assistant
- Endoscopy Technician
Each employer sets its own hiring and certification requirements. SFSU cannot guarantee employment or that a specific certification will be required or accepted. Before you enroll, you should confirm the requirements for the positions you plan to pursue.
Externship
You may choose to take part in an externship with a local organization in your field to gain hands-on experience. Externship sites may require additional documentation such as health records, immunizations, drug screening or background checks. After completing your program, you can contact the Health Ed Today Externship Coordinator at mentor@healthedtoday.com to arrange placement.