Surgical Technology Program
- WVU Parkersburg
Overview
Surgical Technology
The Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology prepares qualified individuals to work under the supervision of a surgeon to assist the safe and efficient performance of invasive surgical procedures, make certain that the operating room environment is safe, that equipment functions properly and that the operative procedure is performed under optimal conditions that ensure patient safety.
Through a combination of classroom presentations, campus laboratory practice and clinical experiences, the student will develop a knowledge of becoming a surgical technologist in the surgical environment, instrumentation, procedures and supplies necessary to ensure safe care of the surgical patient. The program includes courses in general and technical education. Clinical experiences are offered under faculty and mentor supervision at Camden Clark Medical Center, Memorial Health Systems and other selected community agencies.
The program’s mission is to provide students with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge in the cognitive, psychomotor and affective learning domains necessary to gain employment as competent entry-level surgical technologists.
The Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) 1361 Park Street, Clearwater, FL, 33756.
Application to Program:
Our Nursing and Health Sciences programs have limited enrollment and a selective review process. Applicants requesting admission to the surgical technology program must first meet the requirements for general admission to the college and be admitted to the college. In addition to meeting all general admission criteria for the college, students must complete a separate Nursing and Health Sciences application, provide an official copy of their high school transcript and any prior college transcripts and complete the pre-nursing admission exam. Applications will be accepted year-round. Application forms are available in the Nursing and Health Sciences Division office or here.
Additionally, the applicant must be able to engage in educational and training activities in a manner that does not endanger themselves or others, be of good moral character and have no history of felony conduct or convictions.
Important: The ability to perform under pressure in stressful and emergency situations is a required attribute for surgical team members. Manual dexterity and physical stamina are essential. Many of the responsibilities of the surgical technologist require standing, often for a number of hours; therefore, the applicant must demonstrate the ability to fulfill these job requirements.
Admission Requirements:
The highest-ranked applicants who meet the admission requirements by September 15 for the spring admission cycle will be admitted first.
Remaining qualified applicants will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis until the class reaches the full capacity. Applicants will be placed on a waiting list which will be dissolved on the first day of classes for that semester. Given the competitive nature of the program, some qualified applicants may not be admitted.
Admission Limitations:
Due to space limitations, qualified applicants are ranked according to pre-nursing admission entrance test scores, and cumulative grade point averages.
Requirements for admission include:
- High school graduate or equivalent (USA GED)
- 2.0 GPA from high school or college courses
- Earn a minimum composite score of 65 on the Health Education Systems, Incorporated (HESI) A2 admission exam. HESI A2 composite scores must be within the last two (2) years. These exams may be completed two times per semester for a maximum of four times each year for consideration for admission. Each attempt must be at least 45 days apart.
It is important to note that completion of the application process does not imply that the applicant will be admitted to the nursing program.
Graduation Requirements:
- Complete the required credit hours as outlined in the program of study.
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.
- Complete all courses in the curriculum with a grade of C or better.
- Complete at least 15 credit hours at WVU Parkersburg.
- Complete and file the graduation application, in OLSIS, within the stated deadlines.
- Complete the NBSTSA Surgical Technology Certification Exam.
Program Outcomes
Testing
All surgical technology applicants must pass the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) admission assessment exam with a score of 65 or higher. This examination measures general aptitude for nursing. HESI A2 composite scores must be within the last two (2) years. The HESI admission exam may be completed twice per admission cycle. The attempts must be a minimum of 45 days apart. The exam may be taken four times in a 12-month period.
TESTING DATES & TIMES
Test Dates for Fall 2025:
The HESI A2 exams for Fall 2025 will take place on campus from 9:00a .m. – 1:00 p.m. on the following dates:
August 26 & 28
September 3 & 5
October 22, 24, 28 & 30
Cost
The testing fee of $50 must be paid in the Business Office prior to registering for the exam and is non-refundable. The cost of the exam will be assumed by the applicant. You must bring your receipt to the Nursing and Health Sciences Division office to register for the exam. Seating is limited and filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Where
All tests will be conducted in the nursing computer lab, room 2318 or 2332.
What to Bring
A photo ID is required for admission to the test.
Other Details
A study guide is available in the WVU Parkersburg bookstore. Contact the Nursing and Health Sciences Division at 304-424-8300 with any questions. Chemistry and Physics are not tested on the HESI A2 for the nursing program.
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology
The surgical technology program prepares students to work under the supervision of a surgeon to assist the safe and efficient performance of invasive surgical procedures and ensure the operative procedure is performed under optimal conditions for patient safety.
Course Listing
Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology
Careers
What Can I Do With This Degree?
Graduates can be an integral member of a surgical team, as the surgical technologist works with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel delivering patient care and assuming appropriate responsibilities before, during and after surgery.
Costs
Tuition
Estimated rates for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additional course fees may apply and rates are subject to change.
*Early College fees may differ per program, for example, in Welding and Cosmetology.
| Residency | Per Credit Hour | Per Semester | Fall & Spring Semesters |
|---|---|---|---|
| WV & OH Residents | $188 – $260 | $2,256 – $3,120 | $4,512 – $6,240 |
| Non-Residents | $376 – $401 | $4,512 – $4,812 | $9,024 – $9,624 |
| High School Students | $50 | $600 | $1,200 |
Estimated Costs Of Attendance
Estimated total costs of attendance for students, varied based on residential status and living situation.
| Category | WV & Ohio Residents Living with Parents | WV & Ohio Residents NOT Living with Parents | Non-Residents Living with Parents | Non-Residents NOT Living with Parents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Room & Board | $9,144 | $14,544 | $9,144 | $14,544 |
| Transportation | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $5,783 | $5,783 | $10,506 | $10,506 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,173 | $2,273 | $1,173 | $2,273 |
| Total | $20,000 | $26,500 | $24,723 | $31,223 |
Related Programs
Nursing & Health Sciences Programs
Request Information
Brandi Durst
Director of Surgical Technology (Nursing & Health Sciences Division)
- Room: 2300B
- 304.420.8655
- brandi.durst@wvup.edu