SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST
PROGRAM FAQS

Will I receive a Certificate of Completion from an accredited university?

When you complete the program, you’ll earn a Certificate of Completion from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. 

The Surgical Technologist curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current healthcare industry standards, helping you build the the surgical technology skills employers value while preparing for the TS-C certification exam.

How long does the Surgical Technologist program take to complete?

The Surgical Technologist program is 100% self-paced, so you can progress on your own schedule. While completion times vary, many students finish within 4–8 months. You'll have up to 12 months to complete the program.

What makes UMSL's Surgical Technologist program different?

UMSL offers a flexible, career-focused pathway to prepare for a future in surgical technology—without putting your life on hold.

As an NCCT-approved Surgical Technologist program, UMSL combines the academic quality of a regionally accredited university with innovative online learning, immersive surgical simulations, and real-world clinical experience. Through self-paced coursework and interactive simulation-based training, you’ll build confidence with essential surgical technology concepts, including sterile technique, surgical procedures, instrumentation, patient care, and operating room workflows.

You’ll prepare for the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) certification exam with included exam preparation resources, then apply your knowledge through a required 300-hour externship experience in a healthcare setting. With UMSL’s support throughout your training, you’ll earn a Certificate of Completion from the University of Missouri–St. Louis while developing the skills and experience needed to take the next step toward a career in surgical technology.

Do I need any prior experience in this field to get started?

Our Surgical Tech program is designed for beginners, so you don't need previous healthcare experience to get started. The curriculum is designed to help you develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for your next career opportunity.

What are the requirements for enrolling in the Surgical Technologist program?

The Surgical Technologist program is designed for beginners and does not require prior healthcare experience. There are no prerequisites or application requirements to enroll. Students should be prepared to complete coursework online and review any program-specific requirements before enrolling.

Are course materials included, or will I need to purchase textbooks or supplies?

All required digital course materials are included with your tuition at no additional cost. You'll have access to the online lessons, learning resources, quizzes, and other materials needed to complete your program. You will need to purchase the required textbook for this program, which is sold separately.

Will this prepare me for certification exams — even if I'm new to healthcare?

Yes! UMSL's Surgical Technologist program is designed to help you build the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) exam administered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) — even if you're just starting your healthcare journey.

• Beginner-friendly: No prior experience required
• Career-focused: Learn the surgical, sterile processing, instrumentation, and patient care skills surgical technologists use every day
• Step by step: Build your knowledge and confidence through guided online coursework
• Practice along the way: Reinforce key concepts with quizzes, assessments, and hands-on learning opportunities
• Certification preparation: Complete a curriculum designed to prepare you for the TS-C certification exam

Our goal is to help you feel confident, prepared for certification, and ready to begin your career as a surgical technologist.

What are the virtual simulations, and how do they work?

Virtual simulations are interactive learning experiences that place you in realistic workplace scenarios. Some focus on identifying and handling the correct instruments for a procedure, while others guide you through the steps of a complete procedure from start to finish.

Each simulation is mastery-based and requires a 100% score to complete. You have unlimited attempts, and only your most recent score counts. The goal is to build confidence through practice, not to be perfect on your first try.

Are certification exam vouchers included in the cost of the program?

Yes, your certification exam voucher is included with tuition at no additional cost. That means you won't pay extra for the exam voucher needed to earn your credential — you can focus on completing your training and preparing for certification.

What's the difference between this program and the TS-C certification?

The Surgical Technologist program provides the training, while the TS-C (Tech in Surgery–Certified) is a national certification credential awarded by the respective certifying organization after you pass the certification exam.

This program is designed to prepare you for the TS-C certification exam through:

• 100% online, self-paced coursework
• Curriculum aligned with national certification standards
• A Certificate of Completion from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL)
• Interactive learning materials and certification exam preparation
• Career resources and externship placement support for eligible students after program completion

The goal is to help you build the knowledge and skills needed to confidently pursue certification and prepare for an entry-level surgical technologist career.

Please note that eligibility for the TS-C certification exam is determined by NCCT. Students must meet all applicable NCCT eligibility requirements at the time of application and testing.

Can I complete the Surgical Technologist program while working full-time?

Yes! UMSL's Surgical Technologist program is built for busy adults. Whether you're working full-time, caring for your family, or balancing other responsibilities, you can complete your coursework on a schedule that works for you.

Because the program is self-paced, you can study when it's most convenient and move through the material at your own pace. While many students complete the program in 4–8 months, you'll have up to 12 months to finish your training.

This flexibility makes it easier to prepare for the TS-C certification exam and a new healthcare career — without putting the rest of your life on hold.

What kind of support is included?

You'll have support throughout your learning journey. From your first lesson to your job search, we're here to help you succeed.

Learner Support: Get help with course content, assignments, and navigating the online learning platform whenever you need it.

Career Support: Receive guidance on resumes, interviews, and job readiness as you prepare to pursue opportunities in healthcare.

Does the Surgical Technologist program include career support?

Yes. Eligible students have access to career resources, including resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search support. Students may also be eligible for externship placement support to gain hands-on experience. While employment and externship placement cannot be guaranteed, the career support team is available to help you prepare for the next step in your career.