The Complete Guide to Surgical Tech Programs in Memphis, TN

As an education expert specializing in allied health training for over 15 years, I‘m often asked by prospective students about the top surgical technology programs available in Memphis, TN and the surrounding region. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll provide an in-depth look at Memphis‘ surgical tech education landscape – from a high-level overview of the field to detailed breakdowns of leading local programs, actionable advice for applicants, and insight into career trajectories for graduates. Consider this your complete resource for exploring surgical tech training in Memphis.

What is a Surgical Technologist and Why the Growing Demand?

A surgical technologist, also referred to as a "surgical tech" or "operating room tech," plays a vital role in assisting surgeons and anesthesiologists before, during and after invasive procedures. As advancing technologies, new surgical techniques and an aging population fuel demand for healthcare services, skilled surgical technologists have become increasingly crucial for operating rooms and specialty procedure centers to run smoothly.

The key responsibilities of a surgical tech may include:

• Preparing operating rooms with sterile instruments and equipment prior to procedures
• Assisting doctors during surgeries by passing tools, preparing tissue samples, operating equipment etc.
• Ensuring operating rooms remain sterile through proper cleaning protocols
• Managing surgical equipment including high-tech machines and robotic surgical systems
• Helping transfer patients pre and post-operation
• Restocking supplies when needed
• Maintaining accurate records of procedures and inventory

Surgical techs can specialize in certain treatment areas through additional certification and training (for example – ophthalmic, orthopedic, cardiovascular). Regardless of specialty, they function as integral members of operating teams alongside surgeons, nurses and anesthesiologists.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for surgical technologists will grow 9% from 2020 to 2030 – outpacing the national average for all occupations. This robust demand is driven by an expanding healthcare system, advances in complex procedures involving implants and laser technology, and an aging population prone to chronic illnesses requiring surgery.

For those interested in securing a stable career in healthcare with strong upside potential, becoming a certified surgical technologist is certainly worth exploring.

Why Get Formal Surgical Tech Training?

While some hospitals offer on-the-job surgical tech training for active nurses, most employers strongly prefer candidates who have completed formal education programs and obtained professional certification.

There are several compelling reasons to attend a dedicated surgical technology program rather than opt for informal apprenticeships only:

1. Develop a Broad Foundation & Specialized Skills – Formal programs build well-rounded competencies in areas spanning microbiology, pharmacology, medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology. Students also gain specialized skills like sterile processing, surgical equipment protocols, patient transfers and lab sample handling.

2. Prepare for Certification Exams – Graduating from an accredited program qualifies students to take the National Certifying Exam from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing this exam is mandatory for gaining the coveted Certified Surgical Technologist designation – the gold standard credential demanded by most employers.

3. Access to Clinical Externships – Quality surgical tech programs provide the opportunity to apply knowledge gained via textbooks and lab simulations in real-world clinical settings. These supervised, hands-on externships are invaluable for refining skills and cementing career aspirations before entering the job market.

4. Employment Edge – Hiring managers almost universally favor candidates with formal surgical tech degrees or certificates over those without. After graduation, schools also assist students with job search readiness, interview skills and building professional networks.

Now that the benefits are clear, let‘s examine Memphis‘ top surgical technology training options.

Leading Surgical Tech Programs in Memphis, TN

Memphis offers a range of surgical technology programs catering to full-time students and working professionals alike. Based on tuition affordability, curriculum quality, job placement outcomes and other factors like program duration and faculty expertise, these 5 institutions stand out from the pack:

1. Southwest Tennessee Community College

Southwest Tennessee Community College confers an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology – widely considered among the most comprehensive programs for aspiring surgical techs in the region.

Key Highlights:

• 72 credit hour curriculum
• Coursework spans medical terminology, pharmacology, anatomy, microbiology and specialized topics like surgical procedures, equipment and instruments
• 500+ hour clinical externship at affiliated hospital required
• Graduates eligible for National Certifying Exam
• Well-connected career placement services upon graduation
• Affordable community college tuition rates

The degree program can be completed full-time over 5 semesters, making Southwest Tennessee Community College an accessible entry point for both new high school graduates and career changers. I‘ve placed several students at Southwest Tennessee over the years and consistently hear positive feedback on the faculty‘s surgical expertise and commitment to personalized instruction.

Cost Estimate: $9,300 total tuition for Tennessee residents

Admissions Requirements: High school transcript or GED, placement assessments

2. Concorde Career College

While pricier than other options, Concorde Career College is private institution focused exclusively healthcare education since 1988. The 17-month Surgical Technology program is fast-paced but equips students with vital hands-on training under expert mentorship.

Key Details:

• 63 credit hours across 4 academic terms
• Coursework emphasizes practical elements like sterile technique, instrumentation and suturing
• Concorde secures clinical rotation placements for all students
• Distinguished faculty with years of real-world operating room experience
• Career help with resume writing, networking, interview skills
• 88% job placement rate for surgical tech graduates

Besides robust job search assistance, Concorde also has strong employer partnerships – meaning direct pathways to open roles. However, the specialized focus and private tuition differs greatly from a local community college.

Cost Estimate: $32,000 total for duration of program

Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

3. Delta Technical College

For those open to commuting outside Memphis city limits, Delta Technical College located near Southaven, Mississippi has a well-rounded 20-month surgical technology program offered at competitive tuition rates for regional students.

Key Details:

• 70 credit hour curriculum
• Emphasis on hands-on simulations with industry-grade equipment
• 650 hour clinical externship included
• Class sizes capped at 15 students
• Career prep services like resume building & interview practice
• New skills lab facilities

Delta Tech has smaller cohorts compared to other area programs, meaning students receive highly personalized training from faculty during simulations and labs. The school states that within 6 months after successfully passing the licensing exam, 100% of Delta Tech surgical tech graduates from the past 3 years secured employment.

Cost Estimate: $15,000 total tuition

Admission Requirements: Proof of high school graduation/GED equivalent

4. Baptist College of Health Sciences

While Baptist College of Health Sciences offers several nursing and health admin degrees, the institution also provides an accelerated 11-month surgical technology certificate program for those seeking to enter operating rooms quickly.

Details:

• Cohort model with classes only starting each June and January
• Comprehensive 11-month curriculum covering instrument processing, pharmacology, medical law/ethics
• Student housing options available
• 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• 94% first-time pass rate on National Certifying Exam
• Job placement assistance included

BCBS‘ surgical tech certificate stands out for its modest length and dual start dates each year – both advantages for those seeking concentrated training. As a faith-based institution, Baptist also fosters a nurturing environment with an emphasis on patient-centered care.

Cost Estimate: $13,500 tuition plus any housing expenses

Admission Requirements: High school or college transcripts, entrance exam

5. Tennessee College of Applied Technology

The Tennessee College of Applied Technology known as TCAT offers surgical technology certificates at several of its campuses, including Memphis. The program equips students with broad medical knowledge coupled with specialized technical skills over a 12-month duration.

Details:

• Total 48 credit hours
• Courses in anatomy, physiology, biology, medical terminology, pharmacology
• 600+ hour clinical rotation
• Job counseling services
• State-funded technical college with affordable tuition

TCAT Memphis‘ surgical tech certificate is designed in close cooperation with local healthcare partners to fulfill regional talent needs. Like all TCAT programs aimed at quick employability, the curriculum stays sharply focused on applied skills for the operating room without general education requirements.

Cost Estimate: $6,500 yearly tuition

Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED

Which Memphis Surgical Tech Program is the Best Fit? Key Factors to Consider

With multiple quality options for aspiring surgical techs, choosing the best fit program in Memphis or the surrounding area comes down to carefully examining your individual needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to ponder:

Budget – How much can you reasonably afford to pay for tuition and other expenses like textbooks, housing and transportation? Community college programs offer significant savings over faster-paced private options. Also consider whether you plan to apply for financial aid.

Location – Convenience is key. Commons options like Southwest Tennessee Community College and TCAT Memphis offer proximity for city residents, while Delta Technical College provides flexibility for Mississippi suburbanites. Having a manageable commute ensures better attendance and participation.

Schedule – When mapping out program length, account for clinical externship hours at partner healthcare facilities in addition to traditional classroom learning. Such rotations may require coordination with an existing work schedule. Also confirm class times and availability of night/weekend sessions.

Teaching Style – Do you prefer level-based instruction focused purely on technical skills? Or are you seeking a broader foundation with more theory and conceptual frameworks included? Health science-heavy community college curriculums differ from concentrated trade school models.

Career Goals – Lastly, consider your aspirations after graduation; Do you plan to gain experience as surgical tech for a few years before transitioning into an advanced nursing specialty? Or are you focused solely on kickstarting your career within an operating room environment? Certain programs cater more directly to certain career pathways.

Addressing such questions will help identify which surgical tech program model best suits your learning style, lifestyle and professional goals.

Expert Tips for Getting the Most of Your Surgical Tech Education

As you navigate program options, I want to offer some pro tips to help prospective students maximize their learning and career readiness:

Practice sterile technique – Meticulous sterile technique is vital for any surgical tech. Use labs and simulations to repeat proper hand washing, gowning and gloving protocol until the procedures feel natural. This establishes muscle memory and confidence that will prove invaluable during clinical observations and eventually on the job.

Log surgical cases – Keep a journal documenting details of the surgeries, procedures and other medical cases you observe during rotations. Logging specialized equipment used, patient diagnostic details, devices implanted and steps followed by the surgeon provides helpful reference material for your future career.

Ask targeted questions – Clinical externships offer valuable face time with working professionals. Don‘t be shy about asking pointed questions about why certain techniques or instruments are used in context. Field experts enjoy sharing knowledge.

Learn suturing – While complex suturing is reserved for surgeons, basic wound closure skills are useful for any surgical tech to possess. Seek suture training opportunities from instructors to better understand needle types, thread choice and proper knot tying.

Shadow support roles – The hub of the operating room relies on coordination between various support functions. Take time to shadow sterilization technicians, supply chain staff, biomedical equipment reps and other ancillary roles during rotations to appreciate the big picture.

Pursue specialty exposure – Try to secure rotations within the surgery specialty that most interests you during clinicals or externships. For example, seek out rotations in orthopedic rooms, cardiothoracic suites or labor and delivery wings based on your unique passions. This focused exposure helps cement future career directions.

Surgical Tech Career Outlook and Job Options in Memphis

Once you‘ve completed an accredited surgical technology program and passed the all-important National Certifying Exam, a promising career awaits as hospitals, outpatient centers and specialty clinics clamor for skilled technicians to meet demand.

The 2022 median pay for surgical techs nationally is $51,510 yearly or $24.77 per hour according to BLS data, with experienced techs in major metro areas earning up to $45 per hour. This outpaces average salaries for pharmacy techs, medical assistants, EMTs/paramedics nationally.

While pay across Memphis hospitals appears in line with national figures, some of the highest paying surgical tech jobs exist within travel nursing agencies and smaller specialty clinics lacking internal training programs. Taking contract assignments across facilities as a travel tech can command upwards of $28 per hour.

Schedule flexibility also abounds within the profession. Most surgical techs work standard daytime hours on weekdays corresponding to scheduled procedures, but options exist ranging from 4 x 10-hour shifts per week or part-time roles handling evening or weekend cases.

Lastly, surgical technology serves as an attractive springboard supporting multiple career development paths over time including:

• Advancing into nursing specialties like the ER, labor/delivery or operating room nurse roles
• Transitioning into medical device sales positions leveraging OR expertise
• Moving onto healthcare administrator or instructor positions
• Even progressing all the way to becoming a surgeon with additional medical training

Regardless of long-term aspirations, starting out as OR technician builds valuable experience and networks within healthcare environments right out of initial training programs.

I hope this guide has shed light on the in-demand field of surgical technology and how students in Memphis can secure the right training to realize fruitful careers. For more insights on local programs, tailored career advice or general questions – don‘t hesitate to get in touch via email at [insert email].