Degrees type: Associate
Main Campus
The complexity, pace, and expectations of the modern operating room demand exposure to Surgical Technology training that is very near a “real-life scenario.” Patients rely on skilled surgeons and anesthesiologists, superb technology, specialized nurses, and surgical technologists whose skills support those of their medical partners in the OR.
Mount Aloysius College educates Surgical Technologists using realistic operating room simulators located on campus. Surgical Technology students become familiar with operating room procedures and expectations well before joining other professionals performing surgical cases in actual clinical settings.
In the second year of study, Mount Aloysius students are introduced to clinical settings where they will assist surgeons in actual procedures. The laboratory component of training also occurs in the second year.
Program Highlights
- Operating room department
- Outpatient surgery suites
- Cardiac catheterization lab
- Gastrointestinal lab
- Emergency room department
- Labor and delivery department
- Dentist/oral surgeon’s offices
- Private plastic surgery clinics
- Private surgeon’s offices
The MAC Surgical Technology Program enjoys an excellent job placement rate.
The demand for Surgical Technologists is expected to rise 6% from 2021 to 2031, an increase of 7,700 jobs.*
The average median wage for a surgical technologist is $48,510.*
Program Minimum Expectations:
To prepare competent entry-level Surgical Technologist in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.
Upon completion of the Associate Degree in Surgical Technology program, the graduates will be able to:
- have an in-depth knowledge of general science which includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology and surgical pharmacology;
- demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology, patient care including legal and ethical issues, safety, professional/caring behavior, asepsis, sterile technique, preparation for surgery, fundamentals of surgical care, and surgical procedures;
- have a working knowledge of equipment operations including the basic physical principles of electrosurgical units, suction units, instrumentation, surgical furniture, pneumatic tourniquets, and monitors;
- demonstrate a solid foundation of surgical sequences and anticipate the needs of the surgeon to ensure quality patient care;
- practice proper medical ethics for surgical technologists and be able to work collaboratively with surgeons and operating staff in attending to patient needs;
- develop the commitment to lifelong learning and the pursuit of personal and professional growth through participation in education and professional activities;
- sit for the national certification exam issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) prior to graduation and receipt of earned degree; and
- secure an entry-level position in the field of Surgical Technology.
Watch this video to learn more about the surgical technology program.
Watch this video to see a surgical technology simulation performed by current students.
Watch this video to see Amanda Minor, the surgical technology program director, properly put on a mask.
Student Voices & Success Stories
- Heather Picard, ‘16, gained employment as a Certified Surgical Technologists at Dubois Regional Medical Center immediately upon graduation.
- Kaylie McMullen, ‘16, gained employment as a Certified Surgical Technologist at an Oral Surgeon’s office in the Altoona Area.
Additional Information
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Admissions Office
Main Administration Building
7373 Admiral Peary Highway
Cresson, PA 16630
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