Surgical Technology Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a Surgical Technologist?

The Surgical Technologist serves primarily as a member of the surgical team.  They work with surgeons, anesthetists, anesthesiologists, registered nurses, and other surgical personnel in delivering patient care and providing a safe environment.  The surgical technologist assumes appropriate responsibilities before, during and after surgery.

What is the Surgical Technology Program like at Delgado Community College?

The SURG Program is a competitive and limited admission program.  Eligibility course requirements must be completed prior to entrance into the program.  It is a full time 16-month program that combines both didactic and hands-on clinical education.  The program is strictly day time (as early as 6:00am – 3:00pm) Monday through Friday.  The SURG Program is year-round, 4 consecutive semesters, a program with education being obtained in every semester at the college.  (Spring, Summer, Fall and Spring). 

Is the program accredited?

The Surgical Technology Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The program was formally established in July 1990.  Prior to that time, the school operated under the name of Charity Hospital School of Surgical Technicians.

Is there a waiting list for admissions?

There is not a waiting list for admissions. We are a selective admission program and applicants are evaluated in the pool of which they have applied.  Any applicant who is not offered a position and would like to be reconsidered for the next admission class must re-apply.

How many students are accepted in each class?

The exact number of applicants is difficult to predict, but a maximum of 25 students may be selected for each class.

How do you apply for admission to the program?

Delgado Community College is an open admission college; however, acceptance into the SURG Program is by selection.  The Admission Committee for the SURG Program reviews and evaluates each application on an impartial basis.  Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the program.  Students wishing to apply for admission to the SURG Program must submit a completed SURG application to the Division of Allied Health NO LATER THAN MARCH 31ST FOR THE FALL COHORT and NO LATER THAN OCTOBER 31^ST FOR THE SPRING COHORT.

When should you apply for admission to the SURG Program?

To be eligible for admission to the SURG program students must:

1. Provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent
2. Successfully complete all prerequisite, general education and required related courses with a grade of “C” or better.
3. Possess cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale in all college courses.

Note:  Courses over 5 years old may require repetition.  Please check with Allied Health Admissions Advisor.

Are uniforms required?

Students are required to meet a dress code for the duration of program, which include the wearing of surgical scrub top and pants. All black or white leather tennis shoes or nursing shoes.

Does the program offer online courses?

No.

Can I transfer in courses to fulfill the required pre-requisites?

Official transcript(s) are required for each college or university attended other than Delgado.  If the transcript is for a college outside of Louisiana, you must also submit course descriptions to aide in evaluation of course equivalencies.  If college credits are older than 5 years you should contact the Allied Health Admissions Office for advising.

How do you find out if courses you have taken at other schools will transfer to Delgado?

To find out if courses you have taken will transfer to Delgado, bring copies of your transcripts to one of our advisors. 

What skills or backgrounds is needed for Surgical Technology?

There is no specific background that ensures an individual will be successful in the Surgical Technology Program.  Strong math, medical terminology and science backgrounds and excellent psychomotor/hand-eye coordination, conceptualization, organization, concentration, and interpersonal skills are a must to learn and work as a Surgical Technologist.

How can I make myself more competitive in the applicant pool?

Applicants are encouraged to make informed decisions about this career and be able to communicate his/her knowledge of the field. In addition applications should maximize their academic performance (overall and pertinent GPA), select persons for references carefully and demonstrate motivation and maturity during the interview process.

What are the days and time of the program?

Classes and/or clinical education for the Surgical Technology program are held on weekdays, Monday – Friday and in daytime hours as early as 6:30 a.m. and as late as 4:00 .p.m.   

Can I repeat a course in the program if I fail?

Only one SURG prefix course may be repeated in the 4 consecutive semester program.  Failure to pass a repeated course on the second attempt will result in failure of the program.

What hospitals is the program affiliated with in the metropolitan area?

The Surgical Technology program is affiliated with many clinical centers within the metropolitan area. Transportation to and from these facilities is necessary for students to obtain the required hands-on clinical experience to successfully complete the program.

May I maintain full time employment status while in the program?

The amount of time a student in the Surgical Technology program must spend in study, practice and attending clinical is significant. The faculty of the program cannot make accommodations for a student's work schedule. Most students find it difficult and impossible to maintain passing grades in their courses and maintain full-time employment at the same time. You should always see what works for you and inquire if you can possibly decrease your employment to part-time status.

Is there an attendance policy for the Surgical Technology courses?

Lecture, lab and clinical schedules are provided to the student prior to the beginning of each semester. Due to the intense nature of Surgical Technology education, missed didactic lecture and/or affiliate hospital clinical hours may affect a student's ability to complete the requirements of his/her course(s). Each course syllabus contains information regarding the attendance requirements for all aspects while in program.