Surgical Tech schools near me in Louisville/Jefferson County
Looking to start a healthcare career without spending years in school? Surgical tech programs in Louisville/Jefferson County can train you in under 2 years—some in less than 12 months. Here's how to get started, where to train, and what to expect locally.
Key Points
- What is a surgical tech? A trained professional who supports surgeons during operations.
- Cost in Louisville/Jefferson County: $5,500–$35,000
- Training length: 9 to 24 months
- Salary in Louisville/Jefferson County: Surgical techs earn $55,100 per year, per BLS.
- Employment outlook: Steady demand across hospitals and outpatient centers
What is a Surgical Technician?
Surgical technicians—also called surgical technologists—prepare the operating room, sterilize tools, and assist the surgical team throughout procedures. They play a critical role in keeping surgeries efficient and safe.
Requirements in Louisville/Jefferson County
To become a surgical tech here, you’ll need:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of an accredited surgical tech program
- A passing score on the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam
- A background check and drug screening (school-specific)
Fastest Way to Become One in Louisville/Jefferson County
Certificate programs take as little as 9 months and meet the requirements for certification. They’re the fastest track to working in the field.
Surgical Technician Classes in Louisville/Jefferson County
Jefferson Community and Technical College
- Program length: 12 months
- Cost: Around $5,500 for in-state students
- Includes classroom instruction and clinical training
- Prepares students for the CST exam
Spencerian College
- Program length: Up to 20 months
- Cost: Around $35,000
- Offers an Associate of Science in Surgical Technology
- Includes surgical procedures, terminology, patient care, and externship
👉 Explore more surgical tech programs on Dreambound
Online Classes in Louisville/Jefferson County
Fully online surgical tech programs are not available due to required hands-on clinical training. However, some schools offer hybrid programs that combine online coursework with in-person labs and externships.
Free Classes in Louisville/Jefferson County
There are no free surgical tech programs currently offered. However, many students qualify for:
- Federal Pell Grants
- State-based scholarships
- Tuition assistance or employer sponsorships
- School-based payment plans
Talk to your school’s financial aid office to explore your options.
Certification Process
To become certified:
- Complete a program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES
- Apply for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam through NBSTSA
- Pass the exam
- Maintain certification with continuing education every four years
Certification is required by most employers and boosts job prospects.
Where Do Surgical Techs Work?
In Louisville/Jefferson County, surgical techs work at:
- Norton Healthcare
- University of Louisville Hospital
- Baptist Health
- Outpatient surgical centers and specialty clinics
- Hospitals in areas like the Highlands, Okolona, and South Louisville
Shifts often include early mornings, evenings, and weekends depending on the department.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Surgical Technicians is $55,100. The job outlook for Surgical Technicians in the region is also positive, with an expected growth of 6% between 2023 and 2033.
Is It Worth Becoming a Surgical Tech in Louisville?
Yes—here’s why:
- High local demand at hospitals and surgery centers
- Strong starting salary of about $55,100 per year
- Short training time with programs as fast as 9 months
- Financial aid available for most programs
- Certification leads to career stability in healthcare
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fast, affordable way to enter the medical field, becoming a surgical tech in Louisville/Jefferson County is a great option. You can complete training in under two years—and start working in a stable, high-impact role that supports surgeons and saves lives.
You could be certified and working in the OR by next summer — compare surgical tech programs near you on Dreambound.
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