Surgical Tech Schools In Atlanta: Top Programs Revealed

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Are you interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology and looking for top-notch programs in Atlanta? Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, play a vital role in the healthcare industry by ensuring that surgical procedures are carried out smoothly and efficiently. In this article, we will explore the top surgical tech schools in Atlanta, their programs, and what you can expect from each institution.

Why Become a Surgical Technologist?

Before we dive into the top surgical tech schools in Atlanta, let's take a look at why this career path is so rewarding. Surgical technologists are in high demand, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 3% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030. This profession offers a sense of fulfillment, as you will be working closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to save lives and improve patient outcomes. Additionally, surgical technologists can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.

Top Surgical Tech Schools in Atlanta

Here are some of the top surgical tech schools in Atlanta, in no particular order:

1. Gwinnett Technical College

Gwinnett Technical College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and takes approximately two years to complete.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Cost: $4,714 (in-state), $10,486 (out-of-state)

2. Atlanta Technical College

Atlanta Technical College provides a Surgical Technology program that leads to an AAS degree. This program is also CAAHEP-accredited and takes two years to complete.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Cost: $3,530 (in-state), $6,500 (out-of-state)

3. Concorde Career College

Concorde Career College offers a Surgical Technology program that leads to a diploma. This program is CAAHEP-accredited and takes approximately 18 months to complete.

• Program Length: 18 months
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Cost: $31,457 (program cost)

4. Lincoln Tech

Lincoln Tech provides a Surgical Technology program that leads to a diploma. This program is CAAHEP-accredited and takes approximately 18 months to complete.

• Program Length: 18 months
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Cost: $30,411 (program cost)

5. Herzing University

Herzing University offers an AAS degree in Surgical Technology. This program is CAAHEP-accredited and takes approximately two years to complete.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Cost: $44,624 (program cost)

Program Requirements and Curriculum

While program requirements and curriculum may vary among institutions, most surgical tech programs in Atlanta cover the following topics:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Surgical procedures and techniques
• Patient care and safety
• Operating room management
• Sterilization and disinfection
• Surgical instrumentation

To be eligible for admission, you typically need to:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Complete prerequisite courses in math, science, and English
• Take the TEAS or HESI exam
• Submit transcripts and letters of recommendation

Certification and Licensure

After graduating from a surgical tech program, you will be eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. This certification is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and is highly regarded in the industry.

In Georgia, surgical technologists are not required to be licensed, but having a certification can increase your job prospects and salary potential.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for surgical technologists in Atlanta is excellent, with a high demand for skilled professionals in this field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta, GA area was $51,410 in May 2020.

Conclusion

Pursuing a career in surgical technology can be a rewarding and challenging profession. By choosing one of the top surgical tech schools in Atlanta, you can gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field. Remember to research each program thoroughly, considering factors such as accreditation, program length, and cost. With the right training and certification, you can increase your job prospects and salary potential in the Atlanta area.

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