* Are accredited: Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA) is crucial. This ensures the program meets nationally recognized standards. Always verify accreditation directly with the accrediting body.
* Offer a strong clinical experience: A significant portion of your training will be hands-on in operating rooms. Look for programs with strong affiliations with reputable hospitals and surgical centers, offering a diverse range of surgical specialties. The number of clinical hours offered is also important.
* Have experienced instructors: Faculty with extensive surgical technology experience and strong teaching skills are essential for effective learning.
* Provide access to modern equipment and facilities: The school should have well-equipped labs that mimic real operating room environments.
* Offer career services: A good program will assist graduates with job placement and resume building.
Instead of searching for a single "best" school, I recommend the following:
1. Check the CAAHEP and ARC/STSA websites: These websites list accredited surgical technology programs. You can search by location and other criteria.
2. Research individual programs: Once you've identified accredited programs near you or that meet your preferences, delve into their websites, look at their curriculum, faculty profiles, and student reviews (if available).
3. Contact the schools directly: Speak with admissions representatives to ask specific questions about the program, clinical rotations, and career services. They can also tell you about student success rates in securing jobs after graduation.
4. Consider visiting schools (if feasible): Visiting a campus allows you to get a feel for the environment and ask questions in person.
Remember to compare factors like tuition costs, financial aid options, and program length when making your decision. A good program will provide you with the skills and experience necessary for a successful career as a surgical technologist.