Are you interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology in Illinois? With the increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, becoming a surgical technologist can be a rewarding and challenging career path. In this article, we will explore the top surgical tech schools in Illinois, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision about your education and future career.
Why Become a Surgical Technologist?
As a surgical technologist, you will play a vital role in the operating room, working closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to ensure a safe and successful surgical experience for patients. Your responsibilities may include preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons during procedures. With the aging population and advancements in medical technology, the demand for skilled surgical technologists is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Top Surgical Tech Schools in Illinois
Here are some of the top surgical tech schools in Illinois, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES):
- City Colleges of Chicago - Malcolm X College
- Program: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Surgical Technology
- Length: 2 years
- Tuition: $2,440 (in-state), $6,940 (out-of-state)
- College of DuPage
- Program: AAS in Surgical Technology
- Length: 2 years
- Tuition: $4,440 (in-state), $10,440 (out-of-state)
- Elgin Community College
- Program: AAS in Surgical Technology
- Length: 2 years
- Tuition: $3,440 (in-state), $8,440 (out-of-state)
- Harper College
- Program: AAS in Surgical Technology
- Length: 2 years
- Tuition: $3,440 (in-state), $8,440 (out-of-state)
- Illinois Central College
- Program: AAS in Surgical Technology
- Length: 2 years
- Tuition: $3,440 (in-state), $8,440 (out-of-state)
What to Expect from a Surgical Tech Program
A typical surgical tech program in Illinois will include both classroom and clinical instruction, covering topics such as:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Surgical procedures and techniques
- Patient care and safety
- Medical terminology
- Sterilization and infection control
- Surgical equipment and supplies
In addition to academic coursework, you can expect to gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting, working with experienced surgeons and healthcare professionals.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for a surgical tech program in Illinois, you will typically need to meet the following admission requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
- GPA minimum (varies by program)
- Entrance exam (e.g., HESI, TEAS)
Certification and Licensure
After completing a surgical tech program, you will be eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing this exam will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession.
In Illinois, surgical technologists are not required to be licensed, but certification is highly recommended to increase job prospects and career advancement opportunities.
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, this growth rate is still expected to result in over 1,000 new job openings in Illinois each year.
The median annual salary for surgical technologists in Illinois is around $54,000, with top earners making upwards of $70,000 per year.
Conclusion
Becoming a surgical technologist in Illinois requires a strong foundation in both academic coursework and clinical experience. By choosing one of the top surgical tech schools in Illinois, you can gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this rewarding and challenging career. Remember to also consider certification and licensure requirements to increase your job prospects and career advancement opportunities.
What is the typical length of a surgical tech program in Illinois?
+Typically, a surgical tech program in Illinois lasts 2 years and leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree.
Do I need to be certified to work as a surgical technologist in Illinois?
+No, certification is not required in Illinois, but it is highly recommended to increase job prospects and career advancement opportunities.
What is the median annual salary for surgical technologists in Illinois?
+The median annual salary for surgical technologists in Illinois is around $54,000.