Surgical Technology - Vocational Certificate (SURG-VC)

AREA OF CONCENTRATION: The purpose of this 1330 clock hour, 45 vocational credit hour program is to educate students in the specialty of Surgical Technology and promote knowledge based critical thinking in the safe practice of surgical technology. Upon completion of all graduation requirements, graduates of this program will receive a Vocational Certificate in Surgical Technology. Successful completion of the program will allow graduates to take the national certifying examination provided all the eligibility requirements currently established are met.

To apply for this program of study, students should obtain a program application packet from the Health Sciences Division containing a current listing of admission and course requirements.

For more information about this program visit the Surgical Services website!

Application Process:

1. New students should apply for General Admission to Gulf Coast State College  <click here>
2. New students must pay the $20 college application fee online, at the Bookstore, or in person or by phone at the Business Office
3. Submit the Surgical Technology program application, including Duties Acknowledgement Form <click here>
4. Take the TABE Examination prior to entry - see information in the Surgical Technology Program packet
5. Submit official high school transcripts or GED with scores to the Admissions Office
6. Submit official transcripts from all colleges attended to the Admissions Office
7. Have 2 Letters of Reference forms within the application packet
8. Complete transcript analysis with course Instructor
9. Submit completed documentation of immunizations as required for clinical entry
10. Register and successfully complete the Prerequisite Courses with a grade of "C" or better.  There is no guarantee of automatic transition to the Surgical Technology program. Acceptance into the program is based on overall performance.

Requirements upon entering the Prerequisite Classes:

1. Satisfactory fingerprint/criminal background check at the student's expense through GCSB
2. Copy of current valid CPR card and maintain certification throughout the entire length of the program.  Acceptable cards are the American Heart Association Healthcare Provider and American Red Cross for Professional Rescuer.
3. Drug screen or other requirements as outlined by the clinical sites
4. Proof of high school graduation or equivalent filed in the Admissions Office
5. Submit proof of age – 18 years or older on or before the clinical start date for the applied class year

Minimum Requirements for Admission to the Core Program:

Listed below are the specific requirements for admission to this program. It should be understood, however, that only the minimum requirements are given and that admission to this program is a selective process. The satisfaction of minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee admission. When space is limited, preference may be given to students within GCSC's assigned district.

1. Recommended Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion with a grade of "C" or higher in STS0009 Terms, Structure, and Function of the Human Body; (or other approved Anatomy and Physiology and/or Medical Terminology course); STS0006 and STS0006L Orientation to Surgical Services and Lab; STS0030 Microbiology and Infection Control. Preference will be given to students who have completed the recommended prerequisites or are currently enrolled with a satisfactory grade.
2. Complete the application process satisfactorily as outlined in the program packet including requirements specified by the clinical site.
3. Completion of Physical Examination with satisfactory results signed by a physician

Requirements upon Conditional Acceptance, during the semester prior to the January Core Program start date:

1. Satisfactory fingerprint / criminal background check.
2. Copy of current valid CPR card and maintain certification throughout the entire length of the program.  Acceptable cards are the American Heart Association Healthcare Provider and American Red Cross for Professional Rescuer.
3. Completion of physical examination (with satisfactory results), including copy of immunization form.
4. Drug screen or other requirements as required by clinical sites.
5. Complete Introductory Classes HSC0005 and HSC0005L.

GCSC Articulation: Up to 38 of the college credits in classroom, lab skills and clinical experience may be granted by validated current proof of certification as a surgical technologist (CST) towards an AAS degree in surgical assisting. See the program advisor to develop an education plan that fits your experience and education needs.

Graduation and Retention Requirements: For the Surgical Technology Program, students must earn a grade of "C" or higher in each course. See surgical technology student handbook for further information regarding graduation, retention, dismissal, readmission, and transfer credit policies.

Recommended Certificate Plan: Please refer to the degree plan to determine what classes are typically offered each term. This represents a student plan of approximately 15 months for certificate. However, the prerequisite and core program courses with the STS prefix are only offered during the term indicated. See the program description for surgical first assisting AAS option for those who plan to pursue an AAS degree.