Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Does all general education coursework have to be completed to apply to the program?
    No. Many of our applicants have not completed all general education prerequisites when the apply for admission. If an applicant is accepted for enrollment without having all general education course work complete, the applicant will be required to complete all required general education credits along with completing all core curriculum.
  • How difficult is it to be accepted into the program?
    Because of the limited number of student spaces in the program, the admissions process is competitive. For any applicant to be considered for acceptance they will need to demonstrate a history of successful academic performance as well as a personality that is compatible with both the academic and healthcare environment. Our selection panel evaluates many factors when selecting candidates for the program and has found that there is no one “model” for the ideal student. There is no one factor or attribute that can guarantee acceptance into the program.
  • Do you guarantee employment after graduation?
    There are many employment opportunities available for new graduates. But please keep in mind that no academic program can guarantee employment after graduation.
  • What does the state of Indiana require as far as licensing or certifications for CSTs? What is the average salary of a CST in Indiana? 

    Graduating from our Surgical Technology program will make you eligible to sit for the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) exam, which is a national certifying examination. While Indiana does not require surgical technologists to be certified to practice, many healthcare institutions NBSTSA have certification as a prerequisite for employment. Earning this certification can enhance your professional credentials, increase your job prospects, and demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in the field of surgical technology.

    ​    As of May 2023, the average full-time salary for CSTs in Indiana is $58,760 (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_in.htm#29-0000). Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other factors. 


  • If you have completed previous courses from another institution, why do you I have to complete those courses in your program?
    Although courses may have similar names and subject matter, the program courses are presented with an emphasis on material that is relevant to surgery.
  • Can I get financial aid, scholarships or tuition assistance?
    The program does not participate in federal and state financial aid (FAFSA) thus Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, and other state and federal- sanctioned aid do not apply. Likewise the program does not offer scholarships. As a result, the program's tuition, materials and facility fees are very affordable. We will be happy to work with any third-party payer but it is the student's responsibility to secure such funding resources.
  • Can I work full-time while attending this program?
    Although we cannot dictate what a student does outside of the program, past experiences have demonstrated that it is extremely difficult to successfully meet the requirements of the program while working a full time schedule. Some factors to consider beyond an individuals personal stamina and abilities are:
    • Physical and mental demands of the job.
    • Flexibility of work schedule
    • Weekend vs after program hours
    • Ability to reduce/switch hours to accommodate program demands
    • Additional personal/family responsibilities
    • Study time requirements outside of program hours
    • Are you a quick learner or an individual that needs to spend a fair amount of time to master material?
    Many students do work part-time while in the program. The program faculty, while sympathetic and understanding of the situation, cannot lower the performance expectations of a student. Ultimately it is for each individual to honestly evaluate their abilities, both physical and academic and determine if after the commitment to the program hours and the hours to the job that there is enough time left to eat, sleep, study, travel, and for family while still meeting the requirements of the program…for 17 months.
  • Do you allow students to attend part-time?
    The program is full-time and 17 months in length. First year students spend 4-5 days in the classroom and lab from 7-3 (depending on students schedule). During the last semester students are at clinicals 3-4 days a week from 7-3(depending on students schedule) and 2 days a week in the classroom studying for their certification exam. The program is unable to accommodate applicants seeking any form of part-time education. Likewise, the program is offered only Monday through Friday.