What is a Surgical Technician?

A Surgical Technician, also known as a Surgical Technologist or scrub tech, is a key part of the surgical team. Their responsibilities include:

• Preparing the Operating Room: Sterilizing surgical instruments and setting up equipment
• Assisting During Surgery: Passing instruments, holding retractors, and maintaining a sterile field
• Counting Surgical Tools: Ensuring no sponges or instruments are left inside the patient
• Following Safety Protocols: Supporting patient safety and infection control practices

Surgical Technician Schools in Provo, Utah

Here are some programs offering Surgical Technician training in or near Provo:

1. Bridgerland Technical College – Logan, UT

• Program: Surgical Technology Certificate
• Program Length: 12 months
• Tuition: ~$6,000
• Overview:
  • Focuses on sterile techniques, surgical instrumentation, and patient prep
  • Includes simulated OR training and clinical rotations
  • Prepares students for entry-level surgical tech positions and national certification

2. Utah Valley University – Orem, UT

• Program: Associate of Science in Surgical Technology
• Program Length: 24 months
• Tuition: ~$12,000 (in-state)
• Overview:
  • Combines core sciences, surgical skills, and clinical experience
  • Offers hands-on training at affiliated hospitals and surgical centers
  • Eligible graduates can take the CST certification exam

3. Provo College – Provo, UT

• Program: Surgical Technology Diploma
• Program Length: ~15 months
• Tuition: ~$30,000
• Overview:
  • In-depth training in surgical procedures, terminology, and operating room protocols
  • Includes clinical externships for real-world experience
  • Graduates prepared to sit for the CST exam

Admission Requirements for Surgical Technician Programs in Provo

• Education: High school diploma or GED
• Age: Usually 18 or older
• Prerequisites: Basic courses in biology or anatomy (depending on program)
• Screening: Background check, drug test, immunization records
• Additional: Application form and interview/orientation session

Costs and Financial Aid Options for Surgical Technician Programs in Provo

Training costs typically range from $6,000 to $30,000, depending on:

• Program type (certificate vs. associate degree)
• What’s included (books, uniforms, certification fees)
• School facilities and clinical partnerships

Financial Aid Options

1. Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA): Many accredited programs qualify
2. Scholarships & Grants: Offered by schools or local healthcare organizations
3. Payment Plans: Most schools offer installment-based tuition plans
4. Employer Sponsorship: Some employers help cover tuition for career development

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations for Surgical Technicians in Provo

The nationwide job growth for Surgical Technicians is projected at 6% through 2032, according to the BLS. In Utah, Surgical Technicians earn an average of $60,560 annually or $29.12 hourly.

Salaries can vary depending on:

• Experience Level & Specialty
• Type of Facility (hospital, outpatient clinic, private surgical center)
• Certifications like the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Job Environment for Surgical Technicians in Provo

Provo has a robust healthcare ecosystem that continues to grow, making it a solid market for new Surgical Technicians. Employers in and around Provo include:

• Intermountain Healthcare (Utah Valley Hospital)
• Revere Health
• Timpanogos Regional Hospital
• MountainStar Healthcare (Provo Hospital)

These facilities offer a range of surgical services and opportunities for professional advancement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to become a surgical tech?

The fastest path is a certificate or diploma program, which can be completed in 9 to 12 months.

What is the shortest surgical tech certification?

Some technical schools offer accelerated certificate programs that last 9 months, focusing on core surgical skills and clinical experience.

What is the highest paying surgical tech?

Surgical Techs working in specialty hospitals, outpatient care centers, or traveling surgical teams often earn the highest wages—sometimes exceeding $75,000 annually.

Which certification is best for a surgical technologist?

The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential from the NBSTSA is the most widely recognized and preferred by employers.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking to start a rewarding career in healthcare, Surgical Technician training in Provo, UT, is a fast and accessible option. With competitive salaries, strong job demand, and several quality schools to choose from, now’s a great time to explore your options and take the first step toward becoming a Surgical Technician.

Ready to begin? Use Dreambound’s zip code search tool to compare programs near you and start your journey today.

Still exploring career paths? Check out these other healthcare training options near you:

• Sterile Processing Technician Training in Provo
• Respiratory Therapist Training in Provo