Program Overview

Are you drawn to the fast-paced, critical environment of the operating room? The Surgical Technology program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) prepares you for a vital role in surgical procedures. This program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career as a Surgical Technologist. You will learn about sterile processing, surgical instrumentation, and patient care techniques, enabling you to play an integral role in the surgical team.

This program offers a comprehensive blend of classroom education and hands-on clinical experience. You will learn from experienced healthcare professionals and engage in real-world scenarios, preparing you to thrive in the high-stakes environment of surgery. Whether you are just starting your journey in healthcare or looking to specialize, our program paves the way for your success in surgical technology.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Applied Science

Cost

$10,602

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Locations

Nampa Campus

Learning Opportunities

Technical Skills in Surgery: Develop expertise in handling surgical instruments and understanding surgical procedures.
Sterile Processing Knowledge: Learn the principles of sterile processing to maintain a safe and efficient operating environment.
Clinical Experience: Gain practical experience in a variety of surgical settings, applying your skills alongside medical professionals.
Patient Care Techniques: Understand patient care in the surgical context, including preoperative and postoperative procedures.
Career Advancement: Prepare for a rewarding career in surgical technology with skills that are in high demand across healthcare settings.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Surgical Technology – Associate of Applied Science Degree

2 Years

AAS

Degree Requirements

Cost:

$10,602

View Catalog Preview Classes Cost of Attendance

The following is the Certified Surgical Technologist exam pass rate on first time attempts from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) for eligible CWI students who completed the Surgical Technology Associate of Applied Science program.

2024: 100%
2023: 94%
2022: 94%
2021: 100%
2020: 100%
2019: 100%
2018: 94%
2017: 100%
2016: 100%
2015: 100%
2014: 94%

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Surgical Technologists working with tools in an operating room

Career Opportunities

192

Annual Openings*

35.10

Hourly Median Wage*

73,008

Annual Median Salary

18.28

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

Assist in operations, under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. May help set up operating room, prepare and transport patients for surgery, adjust lights and equipment, pass instruments and other supplies to surgeons and surgeons’ assistants, hold retractors, cut sutures, and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments.

Annual Openings*

29.66

Hourly Median Wage*

61,692

Annual Median Salary

15.92

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

"This program has really shown me how much you can accomplish with hard work and dedication. In the beginning, it takes five minutes to get your gloves on the correct hands. Nine months later, we are rotating through different hospitals getting to be a part of various surgeries across all specialties. I am forever thankful to have chosen this career path and look forward to continuing my education as a Certified Surgical First Assist in the years to come. " Read More >

Mollie Weitz

Student, Surgical Technology

Admissions

Admission into the Surgical Technology program is competitive and requires a supplemental application process.

STEP 1

Review the Surgical Technology Application Steps which includes details on:
- Qualifications
- Admission to CWI
- Prerequisite and corequisite classes
- Certifications and work history
- Unofficial transcripts
- Professional references
- Applying to the program
- Next steps

STEP 2

Complete each step of the application process as indicated.

Step 3

Submit the program application and necessary documentation by the deadline.

Summer 2026 Application Deadline

Monday, April 6

Academic Calendar New Student Checklist

Program Accreditation

The Surgical Technology program at CWI is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education and Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA).

9355 - 113th St. N., #7709
Seminole, FL 33775
727.210.2350

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Cost & Aid

As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.

Enrichment Opportunities

Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.

Surgical Technology

Requirements for professional licensure in healthcare and other fields vary from state to state. Contact the appropriate licensing agency in the state or territory you intend to work to verify this program meets licensure requirements.

Advising

Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.

Transfer Information

Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.

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CWI Surgical Technology Program partners with the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine to prepare medical students for operating room procedures.

Community

Surgical technicians assist during a medical surgical procedure.

Health Programs Application Deadlines

Applications are now being accepted for College of Western Idaho’s Health Science programs.

Announcements

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Applications for CWI’s Surgical First Assistant Now Open

Applications for the inaugural Surgical First Assistant class at College of Western Idaho are now open!

Announcements

Finding a Lifelong Career through Surgical Technology

As Mollie Weitz prepares to graduate from the Surgical Technology program, she reflects on what she’s been able to learn and accomplish in the last year.

Student Success