Surgical Technology
Program Overview
Begin your career in the operating room with Johnston Community College’s Surgical Technology program.
In just one year you’ll gain the knowledge, hands-on skills, and professional training to assist surgeons,
prepare operating rooms, and maintain a safe, sterile environment for patients.
Credentials Offered: Certificate
Requirements
- Must be 18 years old
- Advanced English Skills
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support Card
- Government Issued Drivers License or Photo ID
- Government Issued Social Security Card
- High School Diploma or GED
What You’ll Learn
In the Surgical Technology program, you’ll develop the technical and professional skills needed to work confidently in the operating room.
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Surgical Preparation – Learn how to set up operating rooms, prepare instruments and equipment, and ensure everything is ready for each procedure.
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Sterile Techniques – Master the principles of infection control by maintaining sterile fields and following proper sanitation protocols to keep patients safe.
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Intraoperative Support – Gain hands-on experience assisting surgeons during operations, anticipating their needs, and managing surgical instruments efficiently.
How To Get Started
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To enroll, you must have completed the following courses with a grade of "C" or better within the past five years:
Biology: BIO 163 or EMS 2163 (Basic Anatomy and Physiology) or its equivalents, BIO 168 & 169.
EMS 2163 is an online class that starts January 2026 - For Questions, contact Brittney Baker at 919-464-2299 or bjbaker@johnstoncc.edu
Medical Terminology: MED 120 or MED 3235 or its equivalents, MED 121 & 122.
MED 3235 is an online class that starts January 2026 - For Questions, contact Lori Collier at 919-464-2368 or lecollier@johnstoncc.edu
Must hold a current American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
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Before beginning clinical training, you must provide documentation of the following.
Vaccinations or Titers
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – Two doses or a positive titer
Varicella (Chickenpox) – Two doses or a positive titer
Hepatitis B – Three-dose series, proof of progress, or signed declination form
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) – Must be current within the last 10 years
COVID-19 – Proof of vaccination or signed declination form
Influenza (Flu) – Annual vaccination (time sensitive)
Health Screenings
Tuberculosis (TB) Test – Two-step skin test or QuantiFERON TB Gold (time sensitive)
Annual Physical Exam – Submit through the Viewpoint Portal
Other Requirement
Proof of current medical insurance
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(Prices subject to change)
Tuition: $219 per semester
Rotation Manager: $39.99
Background check and drug screening: $102 (Viewpoint)
Caribbean blue uniform top and bottom: $51.20
Name tag: $14.50
Required Books: $292.42
Program Forms Packet: To be determined
Basic Surgical Kit: $62.15
Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) Exam: $199Financial Assistance may be available for eligible students.
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Attendance Policy
Attendance is Mandatory. Missing more than 16 hours of class, lab, or clinical time may result in dismissal.
Punctuality is Required. Students are considered tardy one minute after the scheduled start time.
Grading Policy
Minimum Passing Score: 80% (no rounding of grades).
Students must pass ALL components (classroom, lab, and clinical) to successfully complete the course.
Refund and Withdrawal Policy
100% Refund if withdrawing before the first class.
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Next Steps
Information SessionYou are required to attend an information session to receive information on how to register for classes beginning in January 2027.
In the mean time if you have questions please contact Lori Collier
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Certification Exam: After completing the program, you can take the Tech in Surgery TS-C certification exam through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
Check Certification Acceptance: Contact local hospitals and facilities to ensure they accept this certification.
2026 Course Schedule
First Semester Schedule: January 12, 2026 - May 7, 2026
Mondays and Thursdays: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Second Semester Schedule: May 18, 2026 - July 23, 2026
Mondays and Thursdays: 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Third Semester Schedule: August 10, 2026 - December 10, 2026
Mondays and Thursdays: 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Career Opportunities
After completing the Surgical Technology Certificate program, you’ll be ready to begin a rewarding career in the surgical field. You will be prepared for entry-level positions in hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient clinics.
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Entry-Level Surgical Technologist – Work directly with surgeons and nurses to prepare operating rooms, organize instruments, and assist during surgical procedures.
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Sterile Processing Technician – Specialize in cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instruments and equipment used in operating rooms.
Have Questions?
Caitlyn Clevenger BS, CST
Surgical Technology Coordinator
Still Have Questions?
