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Surgical Technology

Surgical Technology

Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science, AAS
Pathway: Health Sciences
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why choose surgical technology at ppsc? 

PPSC’s Surgical Technology program prepares you to become a key member of the surgical team, working closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses. You’ll prepare the operating room, set up instruments, and assist during surgery by passing tools and sterile supplies. Our mission is to create skilled and marketable health care professionals. This career pathway opens doors in the health care field, with many technologists advancing to roles like surgeon, surgical nurse, or anesthesiologist.

 

medical team bedside

what do ppsc surgical technology students learn?

The Associate Degree in Surgical Technology is a comprehensive, hands-on program designed to equip students with the knowledge and experience needed to excel in surgical technology.

This program is conducted in-person and spans three consecutive semesters—Fall, Spring, and Summer—with continuous learning between Spring and Summer terms.

As a PPSC Surgical Technology student, you will:  

  • Understand and use medical terminology relevant to the healthcare environment 
  • Identify and manage surgical instruments and equipment 
  • Learn proper sterilization and aseptic techniques used in the operating room 
  • Master the handling, care, and sterilization of surgical instruments 
  • Develop effective communication skills with patients and healthcare team members 
  • Adapt to different surgical environments while maintaining professionalism 
  • Perform duties competently within the scope of state and federal laws 
  • And more! 
medical science student

Prerequisite Requirements

To be a strong candidate for this program, ensure you meet the following:
  • Academic performance: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 is required for program consideration.
The following prerequisite courses must be completed or in progress during the application process:
  • ENG 1021 English Composition
  • MAT 1120/1140 Career Mathematics or higher
  • HPR 1039 Medical Record Terminology or higher
  • BIO 2101 Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • BIO 2104 Microbiology
  • PSY 2440 Human Growth and Development and BIO 2102 Anatomy and
  • Physiology II can be taken before or during the program.
Complete prerequisite courses in Math, Science, English, and Psychology before applying to the program. Science courses must have been completed within the last seven years.

If any courses are outdated or completed at another institution, approval from the respective department chair may be required to ensure they meet current curriculum standards. 

In-progress prerequisites are acceptable at the time of application but must be completed with a passing grade before the start of the Fall semester.

Students should also be enrolled in the AGS (Associate of General Studies) degree plan.
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Application Process

This program requires an additional application process.

The application link will be available in April and sent via email to all prospective students. It will also be available here, so check back this spring. Applications are accepted from May 1st to June 1st annually.

Out of the applicants, 30 candidates will be interviewed face-to-face. Up to 20 students will be admitted for the cohort, with five alternates to be offered a position if it becomes available in the first two weeks of the program start date. 

For more information or to be placed on the prospective student list, please contact Antoinette Trujillo-Fergus at antoinette.trujillofergus@pikespeak.edu.

Important Enrollment Requirements

Upon enrollment, students must complete a background check and drug screening ordered through CastleBranch. Directions for completing this process will be sent upon enrollment verification. Please note, students are required to meet the background check requirements outlined by the Colorado Community College System (CCCS) to ensure eligibility for clinical placements. The specific disqualifying offenses can be found in the CCCS SP 4-10c Student Background Checks policy.

Immunization and Health Requirements:
Students must submit proof of the following immunizations (including but not limited to):
  • TB Test: Annually
  • Tdap: Every ten years
  • Hepatitis B: 2 or 3 doses depending on the vaccine; titer required if there is no series documentation.
  • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): 2 doses; titer if there is no documentation
  • Varicella (Chickenpox): 2 doses; titer if there is no documentation
  • Flu: Annually (2024-2025 flu series required by Oct 15)
  • COVID-19 Vaccine: Completed series required (boosters not required)
  • BLS/CPR (AHA Provider Level): Every two years
  • Background Check and Drug Test: Upon acceptance into the program (must redo if readmitted)
Note: Immunization requirements can change with or without notice, pending clinical affiliation agreements.
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students practicing clinicals

Clinical Experience

Clinical rotations will occur during the Summer semester, and students must complete:
  • 540 clinical hours
  • 120 surgical procedures across various specialties

Clinicals will take place at partner hospitals and surgical centers, providing real-world experience under professional supervision. Unpaid clinical experience is the standard, though paid apprenticeships may
be available based on partnership availability.

During clinical experience and the required coursework, students must maintain a minimum grade of 76% or higher in all required courses. 

 

The demand for Surgical Technologists is rapidly growing, especially in Colorado. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and immediately contribute to surgical teams. The program's curriculum aligns with industry standards, ensuring students gain the competencies employers seek.

Prerequisite Semester
ENG 1021: English Composition – 3 credits
MAT 1120/1140: Career Mathematics or higher – 3 credits
HPR 1039: Medical Record Terminology or higher – 2 credits
BIO 2101*: Human Anatomy and Physiology – 4 credits
BIO 2104*: Microbiology – 4 credits
Total: 16 credits

Fall Semester
STE 1000: Fundamentals of Surgical Technology – 6 credits
STE 1005: Pharmacology for Surgical Technologists – 2 credits
STE 1001: Surgery Technologists Skills Lab – 4 credits
BIO 2102**: Anatomy and Physiology II – 4 credits
Total: 16 credits

Spring Semester
STE 1010: Surgical Procedures I – 3 credits
STE 1015: Surgical Procedures II – 3 credits
STE 1020: Surgical Procedures III – 3 credits
PSY 2440***: Human Growth and Development – 3 credits
Total: 12 credits

Summer Semester
STE 1081: Internship I – 4 credits
STE 1082: Internship II – 4 credits
STE 1083: Internship III – 6 credits
STE 2068: Surgical Tech Seminar – 2 credits
Total: 16 credits

Notes:

  • All students must maintain a 76% or higher in each required course (Surgical Technology and non-Surgical Technology courses).
  • *All BIO courses must be taken within seven years of admission.
  • **BIO 2102 must be completed by the second semester.
  • ***PSY 2440 must be completed by the third semester.

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Next Steps

Stay Tuned: Look out for an email in April containing the application link and additional instructions.

Prepare: Ensure your prerequisites are completed or on track for completion before the Fall semester.

Get Ready: Gather the necessary documentation and prepare for the application process.
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Did You Know We Offer a Sterile Processing Program?

We are excited to introduce you to a dynamic and crucial field within the healthcare sector—Sterile Processing Technology. At the heart of surgical operations and patient care, the role of a Sterile Processing Technician is essential for maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and efficiency in healthcare environments.
Learn More About Sterile Processing

need more information?

Contact Surgical Technology

Surgical Technology Faculty Contact

Program Director - Antoinette Trujillo, BS, CST, CRCST
antoinette.trujillo@pikespeak.edu 

Connect with Admissions

We are here to help you get started and can answer your questions about going to college and becoming a student at Pikes Peak State College

Admissions@pikespeak.edu
719-502-2000