In today’s fast-paced world, the desire to build a successful career quickly and affordably is more prevalent than ever. If you’re considering a career as a surgical tech, you might assume that attending a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) approved school and obtaining the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is your only option. However, this is not the case. There are further pathways that could get you job-ready in as little as four to six months, without accumulating student loan debt or spending years in school.
The Misconception: CST Certification is the Only Path
Many aspiring surgical technologists believe that they must enroll in a CAAHEP-accredited program and earn the CST certification to start towards their careers. While the CST certification is a widely recognized credential, it is not the only certification available, nor is it always required by employers. The key to launching a successful career as a surgical tech lies in obtaining the right training, earning a relevant certification, and gaining hands-on experience.
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The Alternative Certifications to How You Could Become a Surgical Tech:
There are three primary certifications that are recognized nationwide for surgical technologists:
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) – Issued by the NBSTSA.
- Tech in Surgery – Certified (TSC) – Issued by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
- Nationally Certified Surgical Technologist (NCST) – Issued by the American Allied Health (AAH).
While the CST certification requires enrollment in a CAAHEP-accredited program, the TSC and NCST certifications offer more flexible pathways, making them ideal for those who cannot commit to a lengthy and expensive educational program.
Becoming a Surgical Tech: The Problems with the Traditional Pathway
1. Long Course Duration
Most CAAHEP-accredited programs are two-year associate degree programs. For busy adults with responsibilities, committing to two years of school is often impractical. Also attending multiple classes per week, completing assignments, and preparing for exams can be overwhelming, especially when life events such as illness or emergencies arise. Missing a few classes can set you back by months, extending the time it takes to complete the program even further.
2. High Cost
CAAHEP-accredited programs can be prohibitively expensive, with tuition costs ranging from $10,000 to $40,000. For many, the only way to afford this education is by taking out student loans, which can lead to years of debt repayment. Starting towards your career with significant debt is far from ideal, especially when there are more affordable options available.
3. Limited Availability of Accredited Programs
Finding a CAAHEP-accredited program can be a challenge, depending on where you live. With only 399 accredited programs nationwide, many states have very few options, forcing students to commute long distances or even relocate to attend school. For example, at the time of writing, Utah only has two accredited programs, making it difficult for residents to find a nearby option.
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A Smarter Approach: Become a Surgical Tech with The Preppy Method
If the traditional pathway to becoming a surgical technologist seems daunting, there’s a more efficient and cost-effective alternative: Preppy’s online surgical tech programs. In fact, this method allows you to obtain the necessary training, surgical tech certification, and clinical experience in just a few months, without the high costs or long time commitments associated with CAAHEP-accredited programs.
1. Consider Alternative Certifications
As mentioned earlier, the TSC and NCST certifications are excellent alternatives to the CST. The NCCT, which offers the TSC certification, has been certifying allied healthcare workers, including surgical technologists, since 1989. It is recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), ensuring that it meets high standards of competency and credibility. The best part? Indeed, you don’t need to spend two years in school or take on student debt to earn this certification.
2. Understand the Demand in Surgical Technology
According to recent data from the BLS http://bls.gov, the demand for surgical technologists is high, with hospitals across the country facing shortages that have even led to operating room closures and reduced surgery schedules. Therefore this shortage means that hospitals are increasingly open to hiring candidates with alternative certifications like the TSC or NCST. Employers are primarily concerned with hiring competent professionals who can do the job, not necessarily those with a specific certification.
3. Expand Your Job Search
When searching for surgical technologist positions, don’t limit yourself to job titles that specifically mention the CST certification. Hospitals often post these roles under various titles such as “scrub tech,” “surgical tech,” or “OR tech,” and may accept certifications other than the CST. Job postings frequently list the CST certification as a preferred qualification, but not a mandatory one. By broadening your search to include these alternative job titles, you’ll increase your chances of finding a position that aligns with your training and certification.
The Preppy Online Surgical Tech Program
The Preppy approach is revolutionizing the way people enter the surgical technology field. Here’s what you need to know about this accelerated, cost-effective program:
1. 100% Online and Self-Paced Training
Preppy’s Surgical Technologist Certification Program is entirely online and self-paced, allowing you to complete your training on your own schedule. Whether you prefer studying from home, at night, or in your favorite coffee shop, the flexibility of this program means you can continue to work or manage other responsibilities while preparing for your new career. The program includes interactive lessons, presentations, quizzes, and exercises to ensure you gain the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed as a surgical technologist.
2. University Certificate
Upon completing the Preppy surgical tech program, you’ll receive a certificate of completion from a well-known, nonprofit accredited university. This university certificate can enhance your resume and help you stand out in the job market. Having a recognized university name on your certificate will not only boost your confidence but also impress potential employers.
3. Faster Completion Time
Unlike traditional programs that can take two years to complete, the Preppy surgical tech program is designed to be completed in just four to six months. This focused training cuts out unnecessary fluff, allowing you to gain the skills you need quickly. Plus, since the course is self-paced, you can complete it even faster if you wish, or take a bit more time if needed.
4. Certification Exam Preparation
Preppy’s program prepares you for both the TSC certification from the NCCT and the NCST certification from the AAH. You’ll be ready to take these exams shortly after completing your training, allowing you to enter the job market sooner than you would through traditional pathways.
5. Hands-On Clinical Experience
Preppy also includes an externship opportunity, giving you valuable hands-on experience in a real-world setting. Above all, this externship opportunity will help you gain confidence working in an operating room and make you more attractive to potential employers. Preppy arranges these externship opportunities for you, ensuring that you meet the clinical experience requirements needed to succeed in your new career.
6. Affordable Cost
Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of the Preppy program is its affordability. At the time of writing, you can enroll in the program for just $1,599. This price includes everything: online training, the university certificate, exam preparation, and the externship opportunity. There are also payment plans available, making it even easier to get started. Additionally, as a bonus, Preppy is offering a free laptop to students who enroll, which you can keep after completing the program.
Become a Surgical Tech: A New Pathway to Success
The traditional pathway to becoming a surgical tech, with its long duration, high costs, and limited availability, is not the only option. Online surgical tech programs offer a streamlined, affordable, and flexible alternative that allows you to enter the workforce faster and with less financial burden. In fact, by considering alternative certifications like the TSC and NCST, and by taking advantage of surgical tech programs online, you could start towards your career as a surgical technologist in just a few months.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a rewarding career in surgical technology without the hassle of a two-year program or the burden of student loan debt, consider the Preppy approach. With this online surgical tech program, university certification, externship opportunities, and affordability, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to quickly and efficiently enter this in-demand field (According to recent data from the BLS http://bls.gov).
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About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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