Are you considering a career as a surgical technologist but are unsure about the time and financial commitment? What if you could start this rewarding career in six months or less? With the right approach, it’s possible to become job-ready without the high costs of traditional education or the burden of student loans. Grant Aldrich will break down the steps on how to become a surgical tech quickly and affordably using the Preppy approach.
Why Become a Surgical Tech?
Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, are vital members of the surgical team. They ensure the operating room is sterile, prepare instruments, and assist surgeons during procedures. This career offers job stability, opportunities for advancement, and the satisfaction of making a difference in patients’ lives. But how do you get started? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a surgical tech in under six months.
Understand the Basic Requirements
Before diving into any program, it’s essential to know the main requirements employers seek in surgical techs. Here are the top three:
Formal Education
A solid educational foundation is crucial. In healthcare, where you went to school and how you were trained matters. Many employers prefer candidates who have received formal training from accredited institutions, which can give you an edge in the job market.
Certification
Certification as a surgical technologist is highly recommended and often required by employers. Institutions such as the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) or American Allied Health (AAH) offer certification exams. Once you pass these exams, you become a certified surgical technologist, which enhances your employability.
Hands-on Experience
Experience is critical. No matter how comprehensive your training is, hands-on experience in a clinical setting is invaluable. This experience helps you build confidence, practice real-life scenarios, and develop your skills under supervision.
Avoid the Traditional College Route
Many people think becoming a surgical tech requires enrolling in a two-year associate degree program at a traditional college. While that’s one way to go, it’s not the best option for everyone, especially if you’re looking for speed and affordability.
The Problem with Traditional Programs
Traditional on-campus programs are often expensive, with tuition reaching up to $20,000 in some cases. Not to mention, the typical two-year time frame can be discouraging for those eager to start working sooner. On top of that, driving to campus multiple times a week is unrealistic for many busy adults juggling family and work responsibilities.
Limited Availability
In many parts of the country, it’s challenging to even find a college that offers a good surgical tech program. For adults who can’t relocate, these barriers make the traditional path to becoming a surgical tech less feasible.
Embrace the Preppy Approach
The Preppy approach was designed to solve the problems associated with traditional education. It offers a fast, affordable, and flexible path to becoming a surgical technologist, meeting all the critical requirements employers want.
Online, Self-Paced Learning
Preppy’s surgical tech certification program is 100% online and self-paced. This means you can study from the comfort of your home at times that fit your schedule. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a working parent, or someone looking for a career change, the flexibility of Preppy’s program accommodates your needs.
University-Backed Certification
The program is offered in partnership with an accredited, top-ranked university. Upon completion, you receive a certificate of completion from this university, which adds credibility to your resume. Having a university-backed certificate can be a significant advantage when applying for jobs, as many healthcare employers value the prestige associated with accredited institutions.
Fast-Track Your Training
Preppy’s online surgical tech program is designed to be completed in as little as four months, significantly faster than the two-year associate degree route. The streamlined curriculum focuses exclusively on the skills and knowledge you need to become a surgical tech, without unnecessary coursework.
Unlimited Access for a Year
While the program can be completed in as little as four months, you have access to the course materials for a full year. This means you can take your time and review lessons as needed, making it ideal for those who need to balance studying with other responsibilities.
Get Certified
Once you complete your online surgical tech training, you’ll be prepared to take the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TSC) exam from the NCCT or the National Certified Surgical Technologist (NCST) exam from the AAH. These certifications are nationally recognized and tell employers you meet industry standards and are ready to assist in the operating room.
Gain Hands-On Clinical Experience
Hands-on clinical experience is essential for any surgical tech. With Preppy, you don’t have to worry about missing out on this vital component. The program includes an externship opportunity, where you’ll gain real-life clinical experience at a local hospital or healthcare facility.
Externship Coordinated for You
Unlike many online programs where students have to find their own externships, Preppy takes care of this for you. They arrange the externship as part of the program, ensuring you get the clinical hours needed to be job-ready.
Job Placement Services
One of the standout features of Preppy’s online surgical tech course is its job placement services. Upon completing the program, you’ll have access to job placement assistance, helping you land a position in the field. This gives you a head start in your career, allowing you to skip the usual job search challenges and get connected with employers actively looking for candidates.
Affordable and Flexible Payment Plans
Preppy’s surgical tech certification program is not only faster and more convenient, but it’s also incredibly affordable. At just $1,599, you get everything you need, including the training, certification preparation, externship, and job placement services. And if paying upfront is a challenge, they offer flexible payment plans to make it even easier to enroll.
Bonus: Free Laptop
As an added incentive, Preppy is currently offering a free laptop when you enroll in their surgical tech certification program. This laptop is yours to keep, and it provides a great tool for completing your online studies.
Conclusion: Your Career Awaits
Becoming a surgical technologist doesn’t have to take years or put you in debt. With Preppy’s affordable, flexible, and fast-track program, you can become a certified surgical tech in as little as four months. You’ll receive a university-backed certificate, hands-on experience through an externship, and job placement services to help you land a position. All of this, for a fraction of the cost of traditional programs.
If you’re ready to start your career as a surgical tech, take the first step today by enrolling in Preppy’s program. Your future as a surgical technologist could be just six months away!
Also read: Problems With Surgical Tech Programs Online
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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