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If you’d like to learn more about the Surgical Technology program, we’d love to talk with you.
We’re here to answer any questions and guide you through our application process step-by-step.
Send us your contact information, and we’ll help you get started right away!
Financial Aid Available-
Program Overview
Surgical technologists are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings. The Surgical Technology program at Madison College will prepare you to enter this important healthcare field.
A surgical technologist works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure that the operating room environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.
A surgical technologist possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic techniques. They combine knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation of tools and technologies to facilitate a physician's performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
Students who are successful in becoming surgical technologists:
- Possess a strong sense of responsibility, considerable patience and concern for others
- Function well in a team
- Possess manual dexterity and fine motor coordination
- Perform accurately and efficiently under pressure
Please note that after acceptance to this program, you will be required to complete a background check and provide documentation of current required immunizations and current Healthcare Provider CPR certification.
Surgical Technology Program Details
Wisconsin law requires background checks for persons who provide care for others or have access to people who receive care. This law applies to students in many School of Health Sciences programs. Please review the Caregiver Background Check information on the School of Health Sciences Forms and Policies.
ALL accepted (petitioned-awarded) Surgical Technology students will need to complete a 10-panel urine drug test prior to the start of the fall semester.
Students in the Surgical Technology program must attend full-time.
Classes are offered Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4 pm.
Surgical Technology classes are held at Madison College's Truax campus.
Graduates of Madison College's one-year Surgical Technologist diploma program can pursue further education to obtain an associate degree.
Surgical Technology Careers
Earning your Surgical Technology degree at Madison Area Technical College prepares you for valuable work as a:
- Surgical Technologist
- OB Technician
- Central Supply Technician
- Private Scrub Technologist
- Second Assisting
- First Assisting Technologist
- GI Technician
- Laser/Endoscopic Technician
- Tissue/Organ Procurement
- Material Manager
- Claims Approver
- Surgical Sales Representative
- Vet Technician
Some of the occupations listed above may require additional education and/or experience.
Surgical Technology Program Resources
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
Pre-Program10-501-101Medical Terminology
Focuses on the component parts of medical terms: prefixes, suffixes and word roots. Students practice formation, analysis and reconstruction of terms. Emphasis is on spelling, definition and pronunciation. Introduction to operative, diagnostic, therapeutic and symptomatic terminology of all body systems, as well as systemic and surgical terminology, is included.3 credits10-806-177Gen Anatomy & Physiology
This course examines basic concepts of human anatomy and physiology as they relate to health sciences. Using a body systems approach, the course emphasizes the interrelationships between structure and function at the gross and microscopic levels of organization, of the entire human body. It is intended to prepare health care professionals who need to apply basic concepts of whole body anatomy and physiology to informed decision-making and professional communication with colleagues and patients.4 creditsFirst Semester10-512-125Introduction to Surgical Technology
Provides the foundational knowledge of the occupational environment. Principles of sterilization and disinfection are learned. Surgical instruments are introduced. Preoperative patient care concepts are simulated. Lab practice is included.4 credits10-512-126Surgical Technology Fundamentals 1
Focuses on preparing the patient and operating room for surgery. Principles of sterile technique are emphasized as the student moves into the scrub role. Lab practice is included.4 credits10-512-127Exploring Surgical Issues
Explores a variety of issues related to surgical technology. Emphasis is placed is on becoming a professional member of the surgical team.2 credits10-806-197Microbiology-University Medical
Examines microbial structure, metabolism, genetics, growth and the relationship between humans and microbes. Addresses disease production, epidemiology, host defense mechanisms and the medical impact of microbes. Presents the role of microbes in the environment, industry, and biotechnology. Includes laboratory practices and procedures.4 creditsSecond Semester10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 credits10-512-128Surgical Technology Fundamentals 2
Focuses on enhancing surgical technology skills while functioning as a sterile team member. Lab is included.4 credits10-512-129Surgical Pharmacology
Basic study of drug classifications, care, and handling of drugs and solutions, application of mathematical principles in dosage calculations, terminology related to pharmacology, anesthesia, and drugs used in surgery.2 credits10-512-130Surgical Skills Application
Provides a transition from the academic to the clinical setting. Learners integrate the surgical technologist skills as they apply to various surgical procedures.2 credits10-809-199Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 creditsThird Semester10-512-131Surgical Interventions 1
Provides the foundational knowledge of surgical core and specialty procedures. Examines the pathophysiology, diagnostic interventions, health sciences, and surgical techniques for a variety of procedures.4 credits10-512-132Surgical Technology Clinical 1
Apply basic surgical theories, principles, and procedural techniques in the operating room. Students begin to function as team members under the guidance of the instructor and authorized clinical personnel.3 credits10-512-133Surgical Technology Clinical 2
Further experience in a clinical setting allows the student to continue to improve technical skills while accepting more responsibilities during surgical procedures.3 credits10-801-196Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.3 creditsFourth Semester10-512-135Surgical Technology Clinical 3
Further experience in a clinical setting allows the student to continue to improve technical skills while accepting more responsibilities during surgical procedures.3 credits10-512-136Surgical Technology Clinical 4
During this clinical course the student will function relatively independently. Serves as a transition from a student perspective to an employee by utilizing advanced skills for an entry level Surgical Technologist.3 credits10-512-142Surgical Interventions 2
Expands knowledge of core and specialty surgical procedures by incorporating pathophysiology, diagnostic interventions, health sciences, and surgical techniques.4 credits10-809-197Contemporary American Society
This is an interdisciplinary course covering issues that illustrate how our traditional institutions (such as family, education, media, the workplace, the economy and government) are being changed by global political, demographic, multicultural and technological trends. By exploring contemporary issues, students expand their use of critical-thinking skills.3 credits -
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now - Limited Seats Available!
This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying to the Pre-Surgical Technology program early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
To enroll in program courses, students must first meet academic preparedness requirements and complete the declaration process.
- Program capacity: 20 spots each Fall. Up to 6 students who have an apprenticeship contract with an employer sponsor.
- Estimated Wait Time: Up to 0-1 year wait time between when students are core ready and when they become eligible to enroll in program classes. This timeline may vary depending on how many students complete the declaration process each semester.
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Before applying, be sure to:
- Review the admission requirements for deadlines, materials, and requirements
- Review the After You Apply section on this page
- Make sure you can meet the program’s essential functions safely, reliably and efficiently within the scope of practice. If you need accommodations, contact our Disability Resource Services office.
Application Dates
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
3. Residency Requirement
Due to program demand and TCS 10 guidelines, this program is limited to district and non-district state residents.
Additional Notes
Students are required to meet the current admission requirements, academic preparedness requirements, and complete the declaration process. Requirements are subject to change based on updates to accreditation requirements or Madison College program assessment data.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Surgical Technology career.
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After You Apply
Academic Preparedness Requirements
This program has academic preparedness requirements that must be completed before beginning core classes. Requirements for this program are listed below and are subject to change. Run a personalized report in your student account to confirm which requirements are complete, which are still outstanding, and how requirements may be satisfied.
When you’ve completed all academic preparedness requirements, you will submit the declaration form to confirm that you are ready to enter core program classes. These steps are part of the declaration process.
Student Report
- Pre-core students admitted prior to Fall 2027: Run your Degree Progress Report in your Student Center in PeopleSoft.
- Pre-core students admitted for Fall 2027 and later: Academic preparedness requirements will be available in your Academic Progress Report in Workday. Access will be available beginning March 2027.
Pre-Program Workshop
Complete a mandatory workshop in Brightspace.
Prerequisites
Math (testing, college coursework or bachelor’s degree in a related biological science)
Testing
- ACT Math 20+
- Accuplacer NexGen (Quantitative Reasoning) 241+
College course
- Mathematical Reasoning
Chemistry (high school or college coursework)
High school course
- 1 year Chemistry with lab
College course
- General Chemistry
English and Reading (testing, college coursework or bachelor's degree)
Testing
- ACT Reading 19+
- Accuplacer NexGen (Reading) 261+
- ACT English 15+
- Accuplacer NexGen (English) 245+
College courses
- English 1
- Written Communication
- English 2
- Intro Reading & Study Skills AND Intro to College Writing
Course Requirements
- General Anatomy and Physiology OR Anatomy and Physiology 2
- Medical Terminology
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Career Outcomes
After completing the Surgical Technologist program at Madison Area Technical College, you will be prepared to:
- Apply healthcare and technological science principles to the perioperative environment.
- Maintain principles of sterile technique in the surgical environment.
- Provide a safe, efficient, and supportive environment for the patient.
- Prepare the patient, operating room and surgical team for the preoperative phase.
- Perform intraoperative case management in the scrub role.
- Perform postoperative case management.
- Function as an ethical, legal and professional member of the healthcare team as determined by governing bodies.
A comprehensive course portfolio will be required for graduation.
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2025 Number of Program Graduates 9 Number of Surveys Sent 9 Number of Surveys Returned 9 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 9 Percent Available for Employment 100.0% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 0.0% Available for Employment
2025 Graduates Employed 9 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 7 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 77.8% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 2 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 22.2% Employed - No Response 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.6 Number of Satisfaction Responses 9 Very Satisfied (4) 5 Percent Very Satisfied 55.6% Satisfied (3) 4 Percent Satisfied 44.4% Unsatisfied (2) 0 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 9 Preparation for Getting a Job 3 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 33.3% Career Change 6 Percent Career Change 66.7% Improvement of Existing Skills 0 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 0.0% Preparation for Further Education 0 Percent Preparation for Further Education 0.0% Personal Interest 0 Percent Personal Interest 0.0% Other 0 Percent Other 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 9 Before Enrollment 1 Percent Before Enrollment 11.1% While Attending the College 3 Percent While Attending the College 33.3% After Training at the College 5 Percent After Training at the College 55.6% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 9 In College District 7 Percent In College District 77.8% In Wisconsin, Not in District 2 Percent of In Wisconsin 22.2% Outside of Wisconsin 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 0 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% Salary Trend 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 6 Average Monthly Wage $4,887 Average Hourly Wage $28.41 Average Work Hours per Week 41.5 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count 1 Average Hourly Wage $28.00 Average Work Hours per Week 32.0 -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions American Family Children's Hospital Surgical Technologist Divine Savior Healthcare Surgical Technologist Portage Meriter Hospital Surgical Technologist Meriter Hospital Ob Technician SSM Health Surgical Technologist ThedaCare Certified Surgical Technician Neenah UW Health East Madison Hospital Certified Surgical Technologist * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu