Program Overview

The Surgical Technologist Program at Stellar Career College in Chicago prepares students for vital roles in the operating room, working alongside surgeons and nurses.

The curriculum covers anatomy, pharmacology, surgical instrumentation, microbiology, and aseptic techniques. Students gain essential hands-on experience through clinical rotations, applying classroom knowledge in real surgical settings — with an emphasis on sterile practices, patient care, and effective teamwork in high-pressure environments.

Offered in a hybrid and online format, the program can be completed in 15 months. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification exam through NCCT to become Certified Techs in Surgery.

Program Objectives

The program equips students with the knowledge, technical skills, and hands-on experience needed to assist in surgical procedures across various healthcare settings — from surgical preparation and instrumentation to sterile technique, patient care, and operating-room protocols, with an emphasis on communication, critical thinking, and professional ethics.

• Develop a solid understanding of surgical terminology, anatomy, and physiology
• Maintain sterile fields and apply aseptic techniques in the operating room
• Master the use, preparation, and sterilization of surgical instruments and equipment
• Assist surgeons and nurses during operations by passing instruments and retracting tissue
• Perform preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative duties per surgical protocols
• Gain hands-on clinical experience through supervised rotations in real surgical settings
• Prepare for national certification as a Certified Tech in Surgery through NCCT

Program Highlights

Duration

15 months

Format

Hybrid

Externship

Provided by the College at its affiliated healthcare facilities

Admission Requirements

Admissions Process

1. Submit the Online Application
2. Attend the mandatory Orientation Session
3. Complete the online assessments — Entrance Exam, Digital Literacy Assessment, and Distance Education Assessment
4. Submit required admission documents (see below)
5. (Optional) Submit certifications (CPR, CNA, etc.)
6. Get estimates / payment plan from the Financial Aid Department
7. Attend an interview with the Program Director
8. Receive your acceptance documents and sign them
9. Receive onboarding instructions and information

Note: Applicants holding a Bachelor’s degree or higher are exempt from the Entrance Exam.

Required Admission Documents (PDF format)

• Government-issued ID (front and back)
• Transcript — official high school or college transcript, or GED report
  • High school or college transcripts — all programs: required GPA 2.0
  • GED report equivalent GPA (students must submit the full GED report) — all programs except MA/PHL: required GPA 3.0; Medical Assisting/PHL: required GPA 2.0
• Updated résuméNeed help? Review this guide: Harvard Career Services: Create a Strong Resume
• Letter of recommendation — from a supervisor or instructorSample format: University of California, Berkeley – Sample Recommendation Letter (PDF)
• Essay (2–3 pages, APA format) — Why are you interested in this program? Why now? What impact do you hope to make in healthcare?APA formatting reference: Purdue OWL: APA Sample Paper