How to Become a Surgical Technician in Michigan
To become a surgical technician in Michigan, you will need a high school diploma or GED, followed by completion of an accredited certificate or associate degree program in surgical technology. While Michigan does not require a state license, earning a national certification like the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is highly recommended by employers. The average salary for a surgical tech in Michigan is approximately $61,710 per year.
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
The CST is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To be eligible, you must graduate from a CAAHEP or ABHES-accredited program.
- Exam Fee: $190 for AST members, $290 for non-members.
- Exam Format: 175 multiple-choice questions administered over four hours.
- Passing Score: You must correctly answer at least 98 of the 150 scored questions to pass.
Tech in Surgery–Certified (TS-C)
The TS-C is offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Eligibility can be met by graduating from an accredited program or through qualifying work experience.
- Exam Fee: $199.
- Exam Format: A multiple-choice exam administered over four hours.
- Passing Score: A scaled score of 70 or higher is required to pass.
Renewing Your Surgical Technician Certification
Maintaining your certification requires ongoing education and periodic renewal.
- CST Renewal: The CST credential must be renewed every two years. This requires earning 30 continuing education (CE) credits, including at least four live credits, and paying a $40 renewal fee.
- TS-C Renewal: The TS-C credential requires annual renewal. To maintain it, you must complete 14 CE contact hours and pay an $89 recertification fee each year.
How Much Do Surgical Tech Programs Cost in Michigan?
The cost of surgical technology training in Michigan varies, with certificate programs typically ranging from $4,000 to $25,000. Associate degree programs may cost more.
Students can offset these costs through federal financial aid via the FAFSA, state grants, and potential tuition reimbursement from employers. Contact your school's financial aid office to explore your options.
How Much Do Surgical Techs Make in Michigan?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists in Michigan earn an annual mean wage of $61,710, or $29.67 per hour. Wages depend on experience, certification, and location.
- 10th percentile (entry-level): $41,530 per year
- 90th percentile (experienced): $78,030 per year
The state is projected to have 3,910 annual job openings for surgical technologists through 2034, indicating steady demand for skilled professionals.
Career Paths for Surgical Technologists in Michigan
After gaining experience, surgical technologists can advance into specialised or leadership roles. Opportunities include becoming a Surgical First Assistant, specialising in fields like neurosurgery or cardiovascular surgery, or moving into management as an Operating Room Coordinator. Experienced techs can also transition into education, training the next generation of professionals in college or hospital settings.
Related entry-level roles that can provide valuable experience include:
- Sterile Processing Technician: Focuses on cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing surgical instruments.
- Operating Room Assistant: Supports the surgical team by transporting patients and stocking supplies, a role with skills that overlap with patient care technician training in Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is surgical tech school in Michigan?
Most surgical tech programs in Michigan take 9 to 24 months to complete. Certificate programs are often shorter, while an associate degree takes closer to two years.
What is the fastest way to become a surgical tech?
The fastest way to become a surgical tech is to complete a certificate program, which can often be finished in 9–12 months. These programs focus directly on the essential skills needed for the job.
Do surgical techs need a license in Michigan?
No, surgical techs in Michigan do not need a state license. However, most employers require or strongly prefer national certification from bodies like the CST (NBSTSA) or TS-C (NCCT).
Final Thoughts
Becoming a surgical technologist in Michigan offers a direct path to a rewarding healthcare career where you play a crucial role in patient safety and surgical success. With steady demand and a clear training pathway, you can enter the field in under two years.
If you are ready to begin, explore accredited surgical technology programs in Michigan to find the right fit for your goals.
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
