Surgical Technologist Diploma Program
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
High School / Associate Degree Applicants
- Submit the Online Application
- Attend the mandatory Program Orientation Session
- Email admissions@stellarcollege.edu to request your Entrance Exam login (include the program in the subject line)
- Submit required documents (see below)
- (Optional) Submit certifications (CPR, CNA, etc.)
- Complete online assessments
- Attend an interview with the Admissions Panel
- Review and sign required program documents
- Sign the Enrollment Agreement electronically
- Receive your Acceptance Letter and onboarding information
Bachelor’s Degree or Higher Applicants
- Submit the Online Application
- Attend the mandatory Program Orientation Session
- Submit required documents (see below)
- (Optional) Submit certifications (CPR, CNA, etc.)
- Complete online assessments
- Attend an interview with the Admissions Panel
- Review and sign required program documents
- Sign the Enrollment Agreement electronically
- Receive your Acceptance Letter and onboarding information
- Government-issued ID
- Transcript — minimum CGPA 2.0 required
- Updated résumé
- Letter of recommendation — from a supervisor or instructor
- Essay (1–2 pages, APA format) — Why are you interested in this program? Why now? What impact do you hope to make in healthcare?
Financial Aid Information
Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Stellar Career College provides financial guidance throughout the process.
- Our FAFSA school code is 037593. Please enter the school code exactly as shown so that Stellar Career College receives your financial aid information.
- The school associated with the code may show “Computer Tutor Business and Technical Institute” — that is the previous name of our institution and can be used to process your FAFSA. The site may also show Stellar Career College based in Modesto, CA; that is correct, as we have a branch there as well.
- If you’d prefer to pay out of pocket through our interest-free payment plan, please contact us and we’ll help you set it up.
Ready to start your career in the operating room?
Apply online or request a call, and our admissions team will guide you through every step.