If you’re looking for a fast-track path to becoming a surgical technologist, an accelerated surgical tech program is your best option. These programs allow you to complete your training in as little as 6 to 9 months, helping you enter the workforce quickly.
This guide will cover how accelerated surgical tech programs work, the best schools offering them, and tips to get certified fast.
What is an Accelerated Surgical Tech Program?
An accelerated surgical tech program is a fast-paced training course designed to teach you the essential skills needed to assist in operating rooms. Unlike traditional programs that take 18-24 months, these programs focus on core surgical technology knowledge and hands-on clinical training in a shorter timeframe.
Who Should Consider an Accelerated Program?
✅ Career changers who want to enter healthcare quickly
✅ Medical assistants or EMTs looking to specialize in surgical technology
✅ Individuals who prefer intensive, fast-paced learning
✅ Students who don’t want to spend two years in school
How Long Does It Take to Become a Surgical Tech?
Program Type Duration Best For
Accelerated Certificate Programs 6-9 months Students wanting the fastest path to certification
Standard Certificate Programs 12-18 months Those seeking a balanced pace of learning
Associate Degree (AAS) 18-24 months Those wanting a comprehensive education and career advancement
With an accelerated program, you can start working in less than a year!
Best Accelerated Surgical Tech Programs
1. MedCerts Surgical Tech Program (Online + Clinical Training)
???? Duration: 6-9 months
???? Format: Online coursework + in-person externship
???? Accreditation: National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
???? Tuition: $3,500 - $5,500
???? Highlights: Flexible self-paced learning, job placement support
2. St. Philip’s College (San Antonio, TX)
???? Duration: 9 months
???? Format: In-person, hands-on training
???? Accreditation: CAAHEP
???? Tuition: $5,000 - $7,000
???? Highlights: Fast-track hospital-based training
3. Baptist Health System School of Health Professions (Texas)
???? Duration: 6-8 months
???? Format: In-person training at partner hospitals
???? Accreditation: CAAHEP
???? Tuition: $6,500 - $9,000
???? Highlights: Intensive hands-on experience
4. Surgical technician certification online Concorde Career College (Multiple Locations: FL, TX, CA, MO, TN, CO)
???? Duration: 8-9 months
???? Format: Hybrid (online + in-person clinicals)
???? Accreditation: CAAHEP
???? Tuition: $12,000 - $15,000
???? Highlights: National certification exam prep
5. Pima Medical Institute (Multiple Locations: CA, CO, TX, AZ, NM, NV, WA)
???? Duration: 9 months
???? Format: In-person with externship
???? Accreditation: CAAHEP
???? Tuition: $10,000 - $14,000
???? Highlights: Fast-track employment opportunities
How to Get Certified Quickly?
To become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) as fast as possible, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose an Accredited Program
Look for CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited programs
Ensure the program includes clinical hands-on training
Step 2: Complete Your Coursework & Clinical Training
Most programs require 400+ hours of clinical externships
Take advantage of hospital-based training for real-world experience
Step 3: Pass the CST Exam
Take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam, administered by NBSTSA
Exam covers anatomy, sterilization techniques, surgical procedures, and equipment handling
Step 4: Start Your Job Search
Apply to hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and specialty clinics
Use job placement assistance from your school
Job Outlook & Salary for Surgical Technologists
???? Average Salary: $55,960 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
???? Job Growth: 6% increase by 2032
???? Top Employers: Hospitals, surgical centers, private practices
Final Thoughts: Is an Accelerated Surgical Tech Program Right for You?
If you’re looking to start a high-demand, well-paying healthcare career FAST, an accelerated surgical tech program is the way to go. With 6-9 month programs available online and in hospitals, you can become certified and working in less than a year!