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Surgical Technology: Building a Purposeful Healthcare Career

Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Surgical Technology for students ready to join operating room teams and play a critical role in patient safety and surgical success. The Surgical Technology program prepares students with the technical knowledge, clinical skills, and hands-on training needed for entry-level surgical technologist careers as part of a healthcare team in hospitals, surgical centers, and operating rooms.

Develop Essential Skills in the Operating Room

Gain hands-on training in surgical instrumentation, techniques, and patient care to prepare for real-world surgical environments.

Learn from Experienced Healthcare Professionals

Learn from faculty with clinical expertise in surgical technology and allied health education programs.

Prepare for National Certification

Complete the program ready to sit for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination and enter the workforce with confidence.

Join the Essential Healthcare Team

Become a valued member of the surgical team, supporting surgeons and registered nurses in delivering quality patient care across multiple healthcare settings.

At a Glance

74

Credit Hours

21

Courses

20

Months*

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Career opportunities in ambulatory surgery centers, operating rooms, and physician’s offices
  • Available On-Campus
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.

** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Surgical Technology, AS Program Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Surgical Technology provides comprehensive education in the technical knowledge, clinical skills, and professional behaviors required for surgical technology practice. Students receive instruction in surgical procedures across multiple specialties, learning to prepare operating rooms, maintain sterile fields, handle surgical instrumentation, and anticipate the needs of the surgical team.
 
The program combines classroom learning with hands-on training in simulated surgical environments and real-world clinical rotations. Students master surgical equipment operation, patient positioning, and incision site preparation while developing the critical thinking skills needed to respond to the dynamic surgical environment.

Program Mission

The mission of the Surgical Technology Program at Keiser University is to provide didactic and clinical instruction that will prepare students for the National Board Examination and as an entry-level surgical technologist in serving the needs of the healthcare community and enhancing the quality of care for surgical patients.

Program Goals

  1. Students will apply basic scientific principles related to anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology for safe transfer, position, and draping of surgical patients.
  2. Students will utilize effective, professional interdisciplinary collaboration as a member of a healthcare team.
  3. Students will integrate their surgical technology knowledge base in cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains, thus following established criteria, protocols and objectives for an entry level surgical technologist.

Prerequisites

  • Background check and drug screening when applicable
  • Immunization record signed by physician
  • Successful completion general education requirements with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher

Program Highlights

  • The Surgical Technology program at Keiser University emphasizes hands-on training in state-of-the-art simulation labs before students enter clinical rotations. Students complete four externship courses in actual surgical settings, working alongside experienced surgical teams in hospitals and surgery centers throughout Florida.
  • The curriculum covers surgical specialties including general surgery, orthopedic procedures, obstetric and gynecologic surgery, cardiovascular procedures, and neurosurgery. Students receive training in both traditional and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
  • All students are eligible to sit for the certification examination at the end of Externship IV, preparing them to become certified surgical technologists recognized by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Accreditation Statuses

Keiser University’s Surgical Technology program, Clearwater campus, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), www.caahep.org upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC-STSA). Learn more about Keiser University accreditation.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus
 
Associate of Science in Surgical Technology Degree Courses
The Associate of Science in Surgical Technology at Keiser University prepares students for entry-level employment as surgical technologists in hospital operating rooms, outpatient care centers, and surgical facilities. Through comprehensive instruction in surgical procedures, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and sterile technique, students develop the knowledge and psychomotor skills required to function as competent members of the healthcare team. The program combines didactic coursework with clinical experience to build proficiency in surgical instrumentation, patient safety, and quality patient care.
 
To receive an Associate of Science in Surgical Technology, students must earn 74.0 credit hours. Program requirements are as follows:

Lower Division Courses

Surgical Technology Major Courses (48.0 credit hours total)
Surgical Techniques and Procedures I 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Techniques and Procedures II 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Techniques and Procedures III 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Specialties I with Anatomy and Physiology 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Specialties II with Anatomy and Physiology 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Specialties III with Anatomy and Physiology 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Specialties IV with Anatomy and Physiology 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Specialties V with Anatomy and Physiology 4.0 credit hours
Once all courses listed previously have been completed, the following externship courses are taken in sequence as listed.
Surgical Technology Externship I 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Technology Externship II 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Technology Externship III 4.0 credit hours
Surgical Technology Externship IV 4.0 credit hours
Behavioral Science (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Psychology Sociology 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communications 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
English (3.0 Credit Hours)
English Composition I 3.0 credit hours
English Composition II 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
American Literature 3.0 credit hours
English Literature 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (6.0 credit hours)
Intermediate Algebra 3.0 credit hours
College Algebra 3.0 credit hours
Statistics 3.0 credit hours
Natural Science (6.0 credit hours)
Human Anatomy and Physiology I 4.0 credit hours
Human Anatomy and Physiology II 4.0 credit hours

All students sit for the certification exam at the end of Externship IV.

If you’re someone who cares about …

Precision, stays calm in critical moments, and wants to make a tangible difference in patient outcomes,

a degree in surgical technology might be your calling.

Surgical technology students demonstrate attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to anticipate the needs of the surgical team. They work in fast-paced environments where every movement counts and patient safety comes first.

Whether you’re drawn to preparing operating rooms, assisting surgeons during procedures, or mastering sterile techniques, this career path gives you the training to turn your dedication into meaningful impact.

Surgical Technology, AS
Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine

Top 100 Hispanic-Serving Institutions
(2024, Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine)

Forbes

Best Online Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (No. 2) & Organizational Psychology (No. 3)
(2024, Forbes)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

What Jobs Can You Get with an Associate Degree in Surgical Technology?

Graduates of Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program enter the workforce as entry-level surgical technologists, ready to support patient care in diverse healthcare settings. The surgical technology program prepares you to work alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and registered nurses in operating rooms, outpatient surgery centers, ambulatory surgery centers, and physician’s offices. Surgical technologists play a critical role in ensuring sterile environments, managing surgical instruments and equipment, and supporting quality patient care throughout surgical procedures.

Career Pathways in Surgical Technology

  • Operating room technicians in hospitals
  • Surgical technologists in ambulatory surgery centers
  • Certified surgical technologists in outpatient care centers
  • Surgical team members in physician’s offices
  • Surgical assisting professionals in trauma centers
  • Operating room staff in surgery centers
  • Surgical equipment specialists
Surgical Technology, AS

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Surgical Technology Career

  • Sterile technique and aseptic practices
  • Surgical instrumentation identification and handling
  • Operating room setup and preparation
  • Patient positioning and draping procedures
  • Surgical equipment operation and troubleshooting
  • Medical terminology for surgical environments
  • Anatomy and physiology applied to surgical procedures
  • Communication and teamwork in high-pressure settings
  • Quality assurance and patient safety protocols

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus learning options, experienced faculty with clinical backgrounds, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

Jessica Wharton is a Surgical Technology student at Keiser University who was inspired to pursue a career in the operating room after working as a neurodiagnostic technologist. Through her experience assisting with intraoperative monitoring (IOM) procedures in the OR, she discovered a passion for the fast-paced surgical environment and wanted to become more directly involved in patient care. Her interest in hands-on healthcare and surgical procedures motivated her to take the next step toward a career in Surgical Technology.

Jessica describes the Surgical Technology program as focused, supportive, and designed to help students succeed in a demanding healthcare field. She appreciates that the curriculum allows students to concentrate on one subject at a time, making it easier to stay organized and balance school with personal responsibilities. As both she and her family manage busy schedules, Jessica understands the importance of determination and time management while pursuing a healthcare education. She credits the instructors for providing clear guidance and practical training that prepare students for real-world operating room settings. Jessica encourages future students to stay committed to their goals and reminds them that with dedication and hard work, they can succeed in the Surgical Technology program and pursue a rewarding career in healthcare.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate
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“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Tom Buchanan
Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student
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Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate
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Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student
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The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate
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Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student
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I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student
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Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student
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I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student
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Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate
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What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate
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I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student
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Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student
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I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates
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“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student
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Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student
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Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student
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The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate
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Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing
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I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate
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I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate
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KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student
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“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate
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I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate
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“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Osmara Cailam
Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate
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“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate
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“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer
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“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA
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“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate
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“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate
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“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate
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“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD
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“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN
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“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing
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“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate
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“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Ryan Bushey
Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production
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“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Danna Murphy
Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate
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“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Jane Krolewski
Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate
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“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Jada Vidal
Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate
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“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate
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Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate
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When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic
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Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate
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I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University
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My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.
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“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University
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I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits
  4. Enroll and choose your start date

Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-534-7379

Keiser University’s Surgical Technology program prepares students for immediate entry into operating rooms and surgical centers across the healthcare system. Through comprehensive training in surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care, students develop the competencies required to support surgeons, anesthesiologists, and the entire surgical team. With experienced faculty, modern simulation facilities, and clinical partnerships throughout Florida, Keiser provides the education and practical experience needed to launch a rewarding career in surgical technology.

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Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study on-campus at Florida locations with one class at a time. Small class sizes create an environment where faculty know students by name and provide individualized support throughout the program.

Financial Services

We guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid are available for students who qualify to help manage the cost of your education.

Top Questions About Earning a Surgical Technology Degree

Can I complete the surgical technology program online at Keiser University?

No. The Associate of Science in Surgical Technology requires on-campus laboratory work and clinical externships in actual operating rooms. Students must attend classes at a Keiser University campus and complete supervised clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities to develop the hands-on skills required for surgical technology practice.

What's the difference between a surgical technologist and a surgical assistant?

Surgical technologists primarily prepare operating rooms, maintain sterile fields, and pass instruments to surgeons during procedures. Surgical assistants, also called surgical first assistants, perform more advanced tasks such as suturing, providing hemostasis, and handling tissue under direct surgeon supervision. The Surgical Technology program at Keiser prepares you for entry-level surgical technologist positions.

What careers can I pursue with an Associate Degree in Surgical Technology?

Graduates work as surgical technologists in hospital operating rooms, outpatient surgery centers, ambulatory care facilities, and physician’s offices. Entry-level surgical technologists support surgical teams across specialties including general surgery, orthopedics, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiovascular surgery, neurosurgery, and trauma care.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

What kind of certification do I receive after graduation?

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates receive an Associate of Science degree in Surgical Technology from Keiser University. Students are eligible to sit for the national certification examination to become Certified Surgical Technologists (CST), a credential recognized by healthcare employers across the country

What are the clinical requirements for the program?

Students complete four clinical externship courses totaling 16 credit hours in actual surgical settings. Clinical rotations take place at affiliated hospitals and surgery centers where students work alongside experienced surgical teams, participate in real surgical procedures, and apply classroom learning in operating room environments.

How long does it take to complete the Surgical Technology program?

The program takes approximately 20 months to complete, depending on course load and whether you attend full-time,  part-time, or transfer credits. The program follows a structured sequence where students complete prerequisite general education courses before beginning the surgical technology major courses.

Is financial aid available for online students?

Yes. Students in this program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

What are the prerequisites before starting the major courses?

Before beginning surgical technology major courses, you must complete all general education requirements with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. You also need to provide an immunization record signed by a physician, and complete a background check and drug screening when applicable.

How much does the Surgical Technology program cost?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What subjects will I study in the program?

The curriculum covers surgical procedures and techniques, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, microbiology, surgical instrumentation, aseptic techniques, patient care and safety, operating room protocol, and surgical specialties. Students also complete general education courses in English, mathematics, behavioral science, and humanities.

Do I need a high school diploma to apply?

Yes. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent. You’ll also need to meet the general education prerequisite requirements and maintain a 3.0 GPA before entering the surgical technology major courses.

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By clicking the "Submit" button, I authorize Keiser University to make or allow the placement of recurring marketing calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. Privacy Policy