Prospective OR technicians must have a high school diploma before enrolling into a program. The program usually ranges from nine months to two years and is offered in various settings, including an accredited college or university, hospital, or armed forces.
The program will be based on classroom instruction and clinical participation. Courses may include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and microbiology. Other topics may include laboratory procedures and patient safety.
After graduating, candidates can apply for certification through the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam or through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). To maintain certification through either program, technologists must acquire continuing education or retake the certification exam; for CST members after four years, and for NCCT members five years.