Education · 1 of 4

The path

Short and direct. Pick an accredited program, because the certification exam will not accept anything else.

1. 1

   High school diploma or an equivalency certificate

   Grade 12

   Biology, chemistry and any health science class. Steady hands and a strong stomach matter more than top grades.

2. 2

   Accredited surgical technology program

   9 months to 2 years

   A community college associate degree or a technical school certificate. Coursework covers anatomy, microbiology, physiology, patient safety, sterilization and infection control.

3. 3

   Clinical rotations

   Inside the program

   Supervised time in real operating rooms, scrubbing in on real cases. This is the part that decides whether the job is for you.

4. 4

   Pass the national certification exam

   After graduation

   Graduating from an accredited program makes you eligible for the exam that grants the CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) credential.

5. 5

   First job and CPR certification

   Immediately

   Most hospital jobs also require current CPR or basic life support certification, which your program or employer arranges.