Are you searching for surgical technician classes? You’ve probably been Googling different options, trying to figure out the best way to start your career as a surgical tech. Before you fill out another information request form or take another call from an admissions representative, there’s something important you need to know.
Traditional on-campus surgical technician classes come with some serious drawbacks that most admissions reps won’t tell you about. These hidden realities could cost you thousands of dollars and years of your life. However, there’s a revolutionary new approach that could help you become a surgical tech in as little as six months for less than $2,000. Let’s dive into the truth behind traditional surgical technician programs and explore a better way to launch your career.
The Struggles of Finding the Right Surgical Technician Program
Searching for the right surgical technician class can be exhausting. You start by looking online, and suddenly dozens of schools pop up, all promising to help you start your career. Each one looks the same and makes similar promises.
You fill out an information request form, and almost immediately, your phone starts ringing off the hook with calls from admissions reps. Each one insists their program is the best, but what they don’t tell you are the major downsides of traditional programs that could make them a terrible choice—especially for busy adults.
The Problems With Traditional Surgical Technician Classes
1. The Expensive Price Tag
One of the biggest issues with traditional surgical technician programs is the cost. Tuition alone can reach as high as $20,000. But that’s just the beginning. When you add in the costs of textbooks, lab fees, parking permits, and commuting expenses, the true cost can be overwhelming.
Many students take out hefty student loans just to cover these expenses, leaving them in deep debt before they even start their careers. Imagine paying off student loans for years when there are much more affordable training options available.
2. Long Wait Times to Get Started
Found the perfect program? Great! But wait—when does the next semester start? You might have to wait four months or longer before you can even begin your training. This delay can set your career plans back significantly, especially if you’re eager to start working as soon as possible.
3. Rigid Schedules That Don’t Work for Busy Adults
Traditional surgical technician programs operate on a fixed schedule. Classes are held at specific times multiple days a week, leaving little flexibility for students who have jobs, kids, or other responsibilities.
If you miss a few classes, it could take months before you get another chance to retake them. This lack of flexibility makes it extremely difficult for working adults to balance school with their existing commitments.
4. Lengthy Course Durations
Most full-time surgical technician programs take two years to complete. That’s 24 months of your life dedicated to training—assuming everything goes smoothly. Many students end up taking even longer to graduate due to scheduling conflicts or missed classes.
For adults looking to switch careers or enter the workforce quickly, this extended timeline can be a major drawback.
A Smarter Alternative: Online Surgical Technician Training
Now that you know the downsides of traditional surgical technician programs, you’re probably wondering: Is there a better way?
The good news is, yes! Online surgical technician training programs offer a faster, more flexible, and more affordable alternative. Let’s explore how online classes can help you achieve your career goals without putting your life on hold.
1. Faster Completion Time
With online programs, you can complete your training in months—not years. Some online courses allow you to become a surgical tech in as little as six months. This means you can start working in the field much sooner than if you chose a traditional two-year program.
2. Study on Your Own Schedule
Online surgical tech classes offer ultimate flexibility. You can study at your own pace, on your own time. Whether you have a full-time job, kids, or other responsibilities, you can fit your studies into your schedule rather than rearranging your entire life around school.
3. Significantly Lower Costs
Unlike traditional programs that cost tens of thousands of dollars, online programs can be completed for less than $2,000. You avoid unnecessary expenses like parking fees, gas money, and overpriced textbooks. This makes online training a budget-friendly choice for aspiring surgical techs.
Common Concerns About Online Surgical Technician Programs
It’s natural to have some concerns about online training. Here are answers to the most common questions:
1. What About Hands-On Experience?
Many online programs incorporate hands-on training through externships or clinical partnerships with local hospitals and surgical centers. This allows you to gain real-world experience while still benefiting from the flexibility of online coursework.
2. Will Employers Accept My Online Training?
Yes! Many online surgical tech programs prepare students to take national certification exams, which are widely recognized by employers. The key is choosing a reputable online program that meets industry standards.
3. How Do I Choose the Right Online Program?
When selecting an online surgical technician program, look for one that:
- Is accredited or recognized by industry organizations
- Provides a pathway to national certification
- Offers hands-on clinical experience
- Has positive student reviews and outcomes
The Preppy Approach to Surgical Tech Training
If you’re looking for an online program that meets all these criteria, Preppy’s surgical tech training program might be the perfect solution. Here’s what it offers:
1. 100% Online and Self-Paced
Preppy’s training is entirely online, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere, and move at your own pace.
2. University-Affiliated Training
Unlike many online programs, Preppy partners with an accredited, nonprofit university. Upon completion, you receive a certificate from a respected institution.
3. Fast Completion Time
With a focused curriculum, you could complete the program in as little as four to six months instead of two years.
4. Certification Preparation
The program is designed to align with the NCCT TSC certification exam, ensuring you’re well-prepared.
5. Hands-On Externship Opportunities
Preppy helps students coordinate externship opportunities with healthcare facilities, allowing them to gain practical experience regardless of their location.
6. Affordable Pricing
Unlike traditional programs that can cost tens of thousands of dollars, Preppy keeps costs low while offering high-quality education.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Surgical Tech Training
Traditional surgical technician programs may still work for some people, but for busy adults looking for a faster, more affordable, and more flexible way to start their careers, online training is the clear winner.
With an online surgical tech program, you can achieve your career goals without spending years in school or taking on massive student debt. If you’re ready to take the next step toward becoming a surgical tech, consider an online training program that offers a direct path to certification and real-world experience.
Start your journey today and get one step closer to a rewarding career in the operating room!
Also read: Surgical Technician Programs Online – Are They Worth It?
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.
Time is money. Instead of programs that could take 2 years, Preppy provides you education in a few months through immersive online training.
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