Overview

Limited Entry Program

See Department website and program contacts here

The Surgical Technology (AAS) degree is designed for students seeking careers as surgical technologists in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare environments. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, laboratory learning, and clinical experience to prepare students to assist surgical teams before, during, and after surgical procedures.

Coursework includes topics such as sterile technique, surgical procedures, patient preparation, instrumentation, anatomy and physiology, and operating room procedures. Students develop practical technical skills used to maintain sterile surgical environments, prepare equipment and patients, assist during procedures, and support surgical teams throughout the surgical process.

The Surgical Technology program is workforce-focused and prepares students for national certification and employment in surgical settings. Students in the program complete preparation for the national certification examination administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), which is required for employment in Oregon.

The Surgical Technology program at MHCC is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon recommendation of the Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA).

Because this is a limited entry program, students should review application requirements carefully and work with program advisors regarding eligibility, prerequisite completion, and program planning.

Students are encouraged to work with an advisor to ensure appropriate course selection and program planning based on their educational background and career goals.

Refer to the tabs above for additional information about:

• Education Plan – provides a sample term-by-term sequence of courses
• How to Apply – details the steps required to apply to the program
• Career Info – includes information on potential occupations, employment trends, and earnings

Program Learning Objectives

At the completion of this program, the student should be able to:

• Demonstrate acceptable knowledge-based competencies in accord with national standards for surgical technology
• Demonstrate technical (psychomotor) competency in the scrub role in accord with national standards for surgical technology
• Demonstrate professional behaviors consistent with national standards and employer expectations
• Demonstrate compassion for the patient and maintain his or her confidentiality
• Demonstrate safe health care practices consistent with employer expectations
• Exhibit a strong sense of ethical behavior and surgical conscienc
• Exhibit self-direction and responsibility for actions
• Become employed in an entry-level surgical technology position

Education Plan

This sample Education Plan illustrates one possible course sequence. Students should consult an advisor to create a personalized plan.

Prerequisite Courses

For the most updated information and a list of prerequisite courses, please see the Surgical Technology - How to Get Started page. It is the student's responsibility to verify completion of appropriate prerequisite courses.

These courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or higher before the application deadline:

¹

Fulfills the AAS degree Mathematics requirement.

²

Fulfills the AAS degree Written Communication requirement.

Education Plan

†

Course with "ST" prefix are offered only in the terms listed. Other courses may be taken during any term.

Awarding Requirements

The following requirement(s) must be fulfilled to be awarded the AAS in Surgical Technology degree:

• All core program courses (ST, BI, MO, CIS or BA) must be completed with a grade of "C" or higher.
• ​All Surgical Technology courses (ST) must be completed within five (5) years of starting the program.

How to Apply

The Surgical Technology program is a limited-entry program. The program admits approximately 20–24 students each fall term. Because space is limited, students must meet specific eligibility requirements before applying.

View current admissions requirements, deadlines, and application information

Application Steps

Step 1: Apply to MHCC

Students should apply for admission to Mt. Hood Community College and work with an advisor regarding prerequisite coursework and program planning.

Step 2: Complete Academic Prerequisite Courses

Students must complete all required prerequisite coursework prior to applying to the program. Prerequisite requirements may change between application cycles.

Step 3: Complete the Written Exercise

Applicants must complete a written exercise demonstrating knowledge of the surgical technology profession. Current writing prompts include creation of a surgical technologist job posting, a self-reflection component, and citation of surgical technology resources. Writing prompt requirements may change between admission cycles.

Step 4: Submit the Program Application

Students must submit all required application materials during the published application period.

Additional Information

Admission to Mt. Hood Community College does not guarantee admission to the Surgical Technology program. MHCC reserves the right to modify admission requirements and selection processes.

Mt. Hood Community College welcomes students of all backgrounds and identities. All students are encouraged to apply.

Career Information

Explore potential careers related to this program, including typical job roles, employment trends, and projected growth. This information can help you better understand how your education may align with future career opportunities.