New Surgical Technology Degree Program Welcomes First Students

There was extra excitement in the air on September 9th as we began our fall semester by welcoming the first cohort of students to our new Surgical Technology (AAS) program.



This newest program in our School of Allied Health Professions (SAHP) is designed to prepare students for roles as technicians accompanying and supporting the work of surgeons and the broader healthcare team in operating rooms. 



Specifically, Surgical Technologists are responsible for ensuring that operating room equipment is functioning properly and operative procedures are conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. Part of that work includes the appropriate placement, care, and utilization of all surgical instruments.



The program curriculum focuses on human anatomy and physiology, as well as the theory and application of aseptic techniques, instrumentation, and surgical procedures. It’s a 67-credit program leading to an Associate degree.



We are very excited to add this program to our academic programs for those seeking careers in the healthcare sector. Recent government data suggest growing demand for trained professionals in this field.



According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for surgical technologists over the decade between 2020-2030 is expected to outpace the average growth rate of most industries, leading to a projected 9,500 new surgical tech positions during this timeframe.



Dr. Horatio Wallace joined the University earlier this year as the new “Surg Tech” Program Director. In addition to leading the development of the academic curriculum with SAHP Dean Liliya Tishchenko, he oversaw the buildout of the new Surg Tech lab and lecture space last summer in Milavec Hall on the New Rochelle campus. Moneé Plummer rounds out the program’s academic leadership team as the program’s Clinical Coordinator.



Some of the specific job titles graduates of the program may pursue include Operating Room Technician, Obstetrical Scrub Technician, Organ Recovery Specialist, Surgical Tech/Ambulatory Surgery or Surgical Tech/Plastic Surgery.



Given the launch of the program this semester, it’s fair to say that National Surgical Technologist Week, which runs from September 18-24th this year, took on a very celebratory new meaning on campus this year!



Best wishes to our Surg Tech students and faculty for an amazing first semester!