to the operating room.
RATE Students who are employed within 6 months of graduation
Surgical Technology
The Surgical Technology program at Lake Area Tech prepares you to work inside the operating room, supporting surgical teams in procedures where precision, timing, and control matter at every step.
Over 20 months, you’ll train in both theory and hands-on practice focused on maintaining a safe, sterile environment and ensuring procedures run as planned. You’ll learn how to prepare operating rooms, manage instruments and equipment, and assist during surgical procedures.
Training includes sterilization techniques, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative procedures, and perioperative case management. You’ll develop the skills to set up sterile fields, pass instruments, monitor equipment, and handle critical tasks that support both the surgeon and patient safety.
In addition to on-campus lab work, students complete clinical experiences in approved healthcare settings, working alongside surgical teams in real procedures.
Graduates are prepared to take the national Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam and step into roles where attention to detail, consistency, and focus are essential.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
Surgical Technology Program Learning Outcomes
- Illustrate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology as it relates to surgical procedures. (Cognitive)
- Implement principles of aseptic technique, decontamination, and sterilization. (Cognitive)
- Demonstrate preoperative preparation of the surgical site and patient. (Psychomotor)
- Execute the duties of a surgical technologist in a perioperative setting, while recognizing specialized roles and maintaining moral, legal, and ethical responsibilities to the patient. (Affective)
- Identify emergent situations and be able to act accordingly. (Cognitive)
Clinical Experience Case Requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 120 cases as delineated below.
A. General Surgery cases
- Students must complete a minimum of 30 cases in General Surgery.
- 20 of which must be performed in the First Scrub Role.
- The remaining 10 cases may be performed in either the First or Second Scrub Role.
B. Specialty cases
- Students must complete a minimum of 90 cases in various surgical specialties, excluding General Surgery.
- 60 of which must be performed in the First Scrub Role.
- The additional 30 cases may be performed in either the First or Second Scrub Role.
- A minimum of 60 surgical specialty cases must be performed in the First Scrub Role and distributed amongst a minimum of four surgical specialties.
(1) A minimum of 10 cases in the First Scrub Role must be completed in each of the required minimum of four surgical specialties (40 cases total required).
(2) The additional 20 cases in the First Scrub Role may be distributed amongst any one surgical specialty or multiple surgical specialties.
(3) The remaining 30 surgical specialty cases may be performed in any surgical specialty either in the First or Second Scrub Role.
Technical Standards
Lake Area Technical College Surgical Technology program has outlined some essential skills and abilities students must possess to succeed in this program and later in their professional roles. These standards generally encompass physical, cognitive, and interpersonal abilities necessary to perform the duties of a surgical technologist safely and effectively. Below are common categories and examples of technical standards for such programs:
- Motor Skills
- Ability to stand for prolonged periods, often 8-12 hours per shift.
- Dexterity to manipulate instruments and equipment with precision.
- Ability to assist in patient positioning and moving heavy equipment or supplies (lifting up to 5 pounds is common).
- Hand-eye coordination to handle surgical instruments safely and effectively.
- Sensory/Perceptual Abilities
- Visual acuity to differentiate colors, read small print, and observe patient conditions.
- Auditory ability to hear alarms, monitor equipment sounds, and respond to verbal instructions
from the surgical team. - Tactile ability to differentiate textures, temperatures, and other sensory information critical for
surgical tasks.
- Communication Skills
- Clear and effective verbal and written communication in English to interact with patients,
healthcare teams, and documentation systems. - Ability to follow and interpret verbal and written instructions promptly.
- Strong interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with diverse surgical teams.
- Clear and effective verbal and written communication in English to interact with patients,
- Cognitive and Critical Thinking Skills
- Ability to prioritize tasks and respond appropriately in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.
- Problem-solving skills to anticipate and resolve issues related to instruments, patient needs, or
procedural requirements. - Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail, especially during long procedures.
- Emotional and Behavioral Stability
- Ability to maintain composure and professionalism in stressful or emergency situations.
- Emotional resilience to handle exposure to critical or life-threatening conditions.
- Professionalism to respect patient privacy and adhere to ethical standards.
- Physical Stamina
- Endurance to perform tasks for extended periods without breaks.
- Capability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks, gloves, and lead aprons, for extended periods.
- Adaptability
- Flexibility to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Adaptability to changes in surgical schedules or emergencies requiring quick decision-making.
- Safety Awareness
- Knowledge and adherence to infection control practices.
- Awareness of environmental hazards, such as sharps or biohazardous materials, and the ability to mitigate risks.
- Ethical and Legal Standards
- Understanding of patient confidentiality, HIPAA regulations, and scope-of-practice limitations.
- Commitment to adhering to institutional and national guidelines for surgical practices.
Accreditation
The Surgical Technology Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Committee for Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC-STSA).
Professional Licensure
Lake Area Technical College’s curriculum for Surgical Technology meets the educational requirements for professional certification. Professional certifications are recognized nationwide. Read more here regarding Professional Licensure Disclosures.
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Surgical Technology Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Surgical Technology degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Surgical Technology sector.
Surgical Technologist
Graduates of the Surgical Technology program can pursue careers as Surgical Technologists, serving as vital members of the surgical team. In this role, you'll prepare operating rooms, organize surgical instruments, maintain sterile environments, assist surgeons during procedures, and help ensure patient safety throughout the surgical process. It's an excellent career path for individuals who thrive in fast-paced healthcare environments, pay close attention to detail, and enjoy working as part of a highly skilled medical team.
Where you might work:
• Hospitals
• Surgical centers
• Specialty surgery clinics
• Outpatient surgical facilities
• Healthcare systems
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
As a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), you'll apply specialized training and nationally recognized credentials to support surgical procedures across a variety of medical specialties. Graduates can expect to assist with orthopedic, cardiovascular, neurosurgical, obstetric, and general surgical procedures while working alongside surgeons, nurses, and anesthesia professionals. This role offers opportunities to develop expertise in specific surgical specialties and advance within the surgical services field.
Where you might work:
• Hospital operating rooms
• Trauma centers
• Specialty surgical hospitals
• Ambulatory surgery centers
• Multi-specialty healthcare facilities
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
Getting all of this straight can be tough – but you're not alone. Our representatives are here to help.
"It may seem like you are doing nothing with your life but going to school. Life goes fast so stick with it and do your best."
Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $9,246 |
| State Fees | $3,105 |
| Departmental Fee | $4,360 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,139 |
| Books | $1,000 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,190 |
| Uniforms | $200 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $21,240 |
We know that college is a large financial undertaking, and our main priority is that there are no surprises as you navigate this journey. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Surgical Technology FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What does a surgical technologist do during surgeries?
A surgical technologist plays a critical hands-on role in the operating room before, during, and after surgery. Surgical technologists prepare the operating room, set up and maintain a sterile field, and assist surgeons by passing instruments, supplies, and equipment during procedures. They help ensure patient safety, infection prevention, efficiency in the OR, and clear communication among the surgical team throughout the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of care.
How does Lake Area Tech’s surgical tech degree prepare me for that role?
Lake Area Technical College prepares students for success through hands-on training in our state-of-the-art Surgical Technology simulation center. Students gain real-world experience using industry-standard equipment while working closely with experienced instructors. Strong partnerships with healthcare providers also ensure students receive high-quality clinical experiences that closely mirror professional surgical environments.
What types of jobs can I get after graduating from the surgical technology program?
Graduates of the Surgical Technology program are prepared for employment in a wide range of healthcare settings, including Level I–Level V trauma centers and hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, labor and delivery units, sterile processing departments, and surgeons’ offices. This versatility allows graduates to pursue careers across multiple surgical specialties.
How long does it take to complete the Surgical Technology program at Lake Area Tech?
The Surgical Technology program can be completed in approximately 20 months, or two academic years, making it an efficient path into a high-demand healthcare career.
What clinical or hands-on training experiences will I get in this program?
Students receive extensive hands-on training in the Surgical Technology simulation center, where they practice essential surgical skills in a controlled, realistic environment. Shadowing experiences begin during the summer semester, followed by full clinical rotations in the second year of the program. This progression ensures students are confident and prepared for real surgical settings.
Does the program prepare me for the national surgical technologist certification exam?
Yes. The Surgical Technology program follows the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) Core Curriculum and is accredited by CAAHEP. Graduates are fully prepared to sit for the national Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which students can take right on Lake Area Tech’s campus.
How much do surgical technologists typically earn, and what is the job outlook?
Most surgical technologists earn $55,000 or more annually, depending on location, experience, and specialty. Job growth is projected to increase faster than average, with an estimated 5–7% growth from 2023–2033, creating approximately 8,700 new jobs nationwide each year. Growth in South Dakota mirrors this strong national demand, offering excellent career stability and long-term opportunities.
What makes Lake Area Tech a strong choice for students pursuing a surgical tech degree?
Lake Area Tech stands out for its small class sizes, supportive learning environment, and strong sense of community within the program. Students benefit from state-of-the-art equipment in the Surgical Technology simulation center and individualized instruction. The program also boasts a 100% national certification exam pass rate, reflecting its commitment to student success.
Surgical Technology Staff
Field-tested. Student-ready. Our esteemed staff is prepared to walk with you through every step of your collegiate career.
