A career as a surgical technologist is an excellent choice if you want to enter the medical field quickly. With fast-track online programs, you can complete your training in as little as 6 to 12 months and get certified to work in hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient clinics.
This guide covers the best online surgical tech certification programs, including fast-track and accredited options, to help you start your career as soon as possible.
Can You Become a Surgical Tech Online?
Yes! Many schools offer online surgical tech certification programs, but keep in mind:
✅ Online classes cover medical theory and surgical procedures
✅ Hands-on training (externship/clinical) is required for certification
✅ Some programs are hybrid (online + in-person labs)
Online programs provide flexibility, making them ideal for working adults or career changers.
Best Fast-Track Online Surgical Tech Certification Programs
1. MedCerts Surgical Tech Program (Online + Clinical Training)
???? Duration: 6-9 months
???? Format: Fully online coursework + in-person externship
???? Accreditation: National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
???? Cost: $3,500 - $5,500
???? Highlights: Fast-track learning, job placement assistance
2. Penn Foster Career School (Fully Online + Externship)
???? Duration: 12-18 months
???? Format: Online with hands-on externship
???? Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
???? Cost: $4,000 - $6,000
???? Highlights: Self-paced, affordable, externship included
3. Rasmussen University (Hybrid: Online + Clinical Training)
???? Duration: 18-24 months (Associate Degree)
???? Format: Hybrid (online theory + in-person clinicals)
???? Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
???? Cost: $10,000 - $15,000
???? Highlights: CST exam prep, strong job placement rates
4. Stautzenberger College (Hybrid Surgical Tech Program)
???? Duration: 18 months
???? Format: Online classes with on-campus labs
???? Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
???? Cost: $10,000+
???? Highlights: Includes surgical externship
5. Concorde Career College (Multiple Locations + Online Learning)
???? Duration: 8-9 months
???? Format: Hybrid (online + in-person clinicals)
???? Accreditation: CAAHEP
???? Cost: $12,000 - $15,000
???? Highlights: CST exam preparation, career assistance
How to Get Certified as a Surgical Tech Quickly
Step 1: Choose an Accredited Fast-Track Program
Look for CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited programs
Make sure the program includes clinical training
Step 2: Complete Online Coursework & Clinical Training
Expect to complete 400+ hours of hands-on training
Gain experience in hospitals or surgical centers
Step 3: surgical tech certification programs Texas Pass the CST Exam
Take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam, administered by NBSTSA
Covers anatomy, sterilization, surgical procedures, and equipment handling
Step 4: Apply for Jobs
Search for jobs in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and specialty clinics
Use job placement services offered by your school
Surgical Tech Salary & Job Outlook
???? Average Salary: $55,960 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
???? Job Growth: 6% increase by 2032
???? Top Employers: Hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, private clinics
Final Thoughts: Start Your Surgical Tech Career Fast!
If you’re looking to start a healthcare career quickly, an online surgical tech certification program is the fastest route. With fast-track options as short as 6 months, you can become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) in less than a year!