SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How do I get started in the surgical technology program?

A: First, make application to the college; this can be done on-line, by phone, or in person. Then see a counselor on Central Campus in the Central High Building, room #212. The counselor will arrange for you to take placement tests and interpret your results. You can contact the counseling department at 704.330.6433 to inquire about the hours they are available to see students. Additionally, complete the program application for Surgical Technology. Applications can be found in the Division offices, Terrell Hall 5th Floor.

Q: What is the purpose of the placement tests?

A: Many of our students have been out of school for a number of years, the placement tests help evaluate a student’s readiness to successfully complete college level coursework.

Q: What are the pre-requisites for the surgical technology program?

A:
         A minimum score of 85 on the reading placement test is required for students to be eligible for admission consideration.

·         High school biology less than 10 years old or college Biology (BIO110 or higher) are pre-requisites for the program and must be completed with a C or better, prior to making application to the program. If you submit an application without having completed the biology pre-requisite, or with a reading placement score less than 85 your application will be denied.

·         Previous work experience in an acute health care facility also counts toward admission.

·         A minimum score of 80% on the reading placement test is required for students to be eligible for admission consideration.

·         High school biology less than 10 years old or college Biology (BIO110 or higher) are pre-requisites for the program and must be completed with a C or better, prior to making application to the program. If you submit an application without having completed the biology pre-requisite, or with a reading placement score less than 80% your application will be denied.

·         High school or college courses submitted for evaluation of previous academic performance.

·         Previous work or volunteer experience in an acute health care facility also counts toward admission (this is optional and not a requirement).

Q: When can I apply to the surgical technology program?

A: Applications are accepted at any time.  Students are admitted to the program once a year for the fall semester. Refer to application packet for current deadline date (April 18, 2009). Please note, the application deadline is firm.

Q: How competitive is admission?

A: This program is very competitive and we receive many qualified applicants every year. We only admit 20 students each fall.  Students who have already completed many of the required general education courses stand a better chance of acceptance in the program.

Q: Are there courses I can take while I am waiting to be admitted to the program?

A: Yes, any general education course that is in the surgical technology curriculum. These can be found in the admission packet or the college catalog.

Q: How and when will I find out if I have been admitted to the program?

A: All applicants will receive a letter of notification indicating the status of their application on or before March 31st for Fall admission.  All admitted students will be required to attend a mandatory orientation in May.

Q: How much will it cost to complete the surgical technology program?

A: It will cost approximately $4000.00; this figure includes tuition, textbook, uniforms, equipment, fees for physical examination and immunizations, background check, drug screen, insurance, etc.

Q: How do I learn about financial aid opportunities?

A: Visit the financial aid office located in the Central High Building.

Q: Can I take courses on any CPCC campus?

A: You can complete the general education courses on any campus, however, the surgical technology program courses (SUR) are currently taught on Central campus. Hospital clinical experiences are done at facilities throughout the cities of Charlotte, Matthews, and Huntersville, many private surgical centers and various private physician offices.

Q: Do I need to complete all the general education requirements before I can be admitted to the program?

A: No. Many students do complete all the general education courses prior to starting the surgical technology coursework because it lightens their course load when they are taking the surgical technology courses which are very intensive.

Q: Are there other specific requirements of the surgical technology program?

A: Yes, we require that all students have a current CPR with AED certification before they can enter the hospitals. Also, we require certain immunizations and a physical assessment, and proof of health insurance before entering the hospital. All of our clinical facilities also require a criminal background investigation and drug screen of all students.

Q: What is the starting salary for a surgical technologist?

A: Starting salary in the Charlotte market is $30,000/year.

Q: Can I complete the program on a part-time basis?

A: Completion of the general education courses can be done part-time, but once you begin surgical technology (SUR) courses you have 2 years to finish.

Q: Does the surgical technology program have surgical technology classes in the summer?

A: No, the surgical technology program is four semesters long and it takes four semesters to complete the program. (Two academic years)

Q: I’m already a working surgical technologist; can I enroll and earn my degree?

A: Yes, there is now a ST-AAS Bridge Option for certified surgical technologists who are graduates of an accredited program.  This option allows for transfer credit for previous surgical and general education courses.  Bridge students take upper level SUR courses, while finishing their degree.  Upon completion Bridge students are awarded their Associates degree.

Q: What if I have more questions?

A: Contact the Program Chair at 704.330.6265