Allied Health: Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing Technology

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Program Location

Greeley Campus | Allied Health and Sciences Building | (970) 339-6500

Program Contacts

Program Chair
Katie Overturf, BS, A.A.S., CST | katie.overturf@aims.edu | (970) 339-6367

Program Coordinator
Erin Miyoshi | erin.miyoshi@aims.edu | (970) 339-6500

Faculty and Advisor
Katie Overturf, BS, A.A.S., CST | katie.overturf@aims.edu | (970) 339-6367

Degrees Offered

Surgical Technology (A.A.S. Degree - Two Years)

Program Length

The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Surgical Technology can typically be completed in two years. Students who require developmental coursework may need additional time to meet assessment requirements.

Program Description

This program is intended for individuals seeking to work in operating room settings that require multitasking abilities. Skills acquired in this degree are applicable to same-day surgical areas, freestanding surgical centers, some clinic settings, and hospital operating rooms. Upon completion of the degree, students may assist in surgeries at the entry level.

Potential Opportunities

Local employment opportunities are available throughout Northern Colorado and nationwide. The Surgical Technology degree prepares students for careers as Surgical Technologists and can serve as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare roles such as:

• Medical Doctor

• Physician Assistant

• Registered Nurse

• Surgical First Assistant

Students will take the National Certification Exam for Surgical Technology prior to graduation.

Registration Requirements

Admission to the Surgical Technology Program requires meeting current academic year registration requirements. Some coursework is restricted to program majors and requires override approval from the program advisor.

Additional Requirements

Before beginning clinical rotations in operating room settings, students must provide:

• Criminal background check and urinalysis drug screening with no disqualifying offenses

• Current 2-step TB test or acceptable blood test

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider CPR certification

• Current Tdap (within the past 10 years)

• Proof of immunization: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B

• Seasonal flu vaccination (October through April)

Certificates Offered

Sterile Instrument Processing (One Semester)

Program Length

The certificate can be completed in one semester.

Program Description

This certificate is designed for individuals seeking roles in Materials Management, focusing on the care, handling, and sterilization of surgical instruments. Skills gained are applicable to same-day surgery centers, freestanding surgical centers, and hospital settings.

Potential Opportunities

Employment opportunities are available locally and across the country. This certificate offers entry-level employment and foundational experience for those interested in pursuing further education in Surgical Technology. Students are trained to take the Certification Exam for Sterile Processors (exam fees not included in tuition and fees).

Registration Requirements

Students must meet current academic year registration requirements for admission to the Sterile Processing Program.

Additional Requirements

Before entering clinical rotations in sterile processing settings, students must provide:

• Criminal background check and urinalysis drug screening with no disqualifying offenses

• Current 2-step TB test or acceptable blood test

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider CPR certification

• Current Tdap (within the past 10 years)

• Proof of immunization: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B

• Seasonal flu vaccination (October through April)

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