Surgical Technology Program

 

A partnership between North Country Community College and Mohawk Valley Community College offers a unique opportunity for students who want a career in surgical technology.

 

As part of the partnership, you can complete your first-year general education requirements with North Country Community College before receiving instruction from MVCC faculty at your clinical site for second-year technical training in Surgical Technology.

This means that you can enjoy the benefits of a community college education, including lower costs and smaller class sizes, while still receiving high-quality technical training from MVCC without having to leave home to complete the program.

More Information

The courses that NCCC provides first-year students are as follows:
 
YEAR ONE -- FALL SEMESTER

College Foundations Seminar -- 1 Credit

An exploration of the tools, techniques, and skills  necessary for success in college life.

English I: Composition -- 3 Credits

An introductory course which views the behavior of the economy as a whole and the problems of economic organization. Students will explore the fluctuations of output and prices. Problems and measurement of economic growth, inflation, unemployment, and income will be discussed. Money, credit and financial institutions will be analyzed, as well as their impact on fiscal policies and international trade.

Medical Terminology -- 3 Credits

Designed for majors in the health sciences and will review common physiological, anatomical, biological and chemical terminology and introduce pathologic, therapeutic, and analytical terms and concepts. (Previous or concurrent enrollment in BIO 109 [Human Biology] is not necessary but strongly recommended.)

Introduction to Math Concepts -- 3 Credits

This mathematics course is designed for students majoring in a career or terminal program as an option for satisfying their minimum mathematics requirements. In certain cases, it may serve as a preparatory course for higher level mathematics. Topics include real numbers, graphing, algebra, geometry, introductory statistics, personal financial management, and various applications of each. Pre-req MAT 095 with a B- or better or placement test; MAT 100 or 101 C- or higher.

Human Anatomy & Physiology I -- 4 Credits

The first half of a two-semester in-depth study of the structures and functions of the human body. This course begins with an introduction to the basic chemistry of life and proceeds to the study of cells and cell metabolism, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and cardiovascular systems. The main focus is on normal processes of growth, maintenance, and repair, rather than on pathological conditions, though departures from a state of health will be discussed as appropriate at the discretion of the instructor. Lecture and laboratory. (Prerequisite: BIO 109 or permission of the Department Chair)

 

Surgical Instrumentation -- 2 Credits

This course introduces students to common surgical instrumentation. Topics include instrument identification, function and grades, and proper instrumentation handling and usage in various surgical services. Suture material and needles by type and function are also covered.

YEAR ONE -- SPRING SEMESTER

English Composition II -- 3 Credits

English Composition II extends the possibilities of the essay beyond the traditional form taught in ENG 101 in order to expand the opportunities for critically analyzing and synthesizing information and ideas. The course emphasizes reading and writing expository prose and literature with particular attention to the generation, development, and presentation of ideas in a variety of fields of study. (Prerequisite: C- or higher in ENG 101)

Introductory Psychology -- 3 Credits

An introduction to the systematic study of human behavior and experience. Students will become acquainted with the methods and language of the discipline.

Human Anatomy & Physiology II -- 4 Credits

The second half of a two-semester, in-depth study of the structures and functions of the human body. This course begins where BIO 215 left off, with a study of each of the 
remaining organ systems, from the respiratory system through the reproductive systems, and ends with the study of pregnancy, growth, and development. As in part one, the main focus remains on normal processes of growth, maintenance, and repair rather than pathologies though departures from a state of health will be discussed in 
context. Lecture and laboratory. (Prerequisite: BIO 109 or BIO 215)

ST130 -- Sterile Process and Surg Tech -- 3 Credits

This course introduces students to the functions and responsibilities of surgical technologists and sterile processing technicians. Topics include supply and equipment preparation for surgery and the safe usage, care, decontamination and sterilization of surgical instruments. Students are familiarized with the structure and design of the operating room as well as operating room safety precautions, infection control standards, healthcare law, and professional ethics. Corequesite: ST131 Fundamentals of Surgical Technology.

Upon completion of the Surgical Technology two-year program, you will be eligible to sit for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which is recognized nationwide and demonstrates your commitment to excellence in the field.  More information on the surgical technology program is available at Mohawk Valley Community College.
 

Surgical Technician