Frequently Asked Questions
I applied to COTC. Is that the same as applying to the surgical technology program?
No. The surgical technology program is a competitive, selective healthcare program. Students first apply to COTC (the college) and indicate interest in a health technologies program (or apply to a pre-health track). Then students complete a separate application to apply to the surgical technology program.
How do I learn about the application process for the surgical technology program?
Students interested in the surgical technology program must register and attend an information meeting.
Students can also review a surgical technology application checklist.
What are the requirements to apply to the surgical technology program?
Prerequisite classes must be taken
There are classes students must take, have taken or have been awarded transfer credit for before they can apply to the surgical technology program:
- A full unit of high school Biology or Intro to Biology (BIO-010)
- High school Chemistry or Intro to Chemistry Principles (CHEM-020)
- or higher college equivalents
- or approved COTC transfer credit for Anatomy & Physiology I (BIO-130)
Students who have taken the courses or receive transfer credit for the courses must have gotten a grade C or higher.
Health Selection Exam
Beginning the 2023 deadline, students must complete the HESI exam for the Surgical Technology program. View more information about the HESI exam, how to register, and the cost here.
Transcripts
Students must submit official high school transcript with graduation date or official GED transcript. High school seniors must send a current transcript during their senior year and a final transcript after graduation. Additionally, official transcripts from all career centers, colleges, and universities attended past and current with GPA must be sent. ALL foreign transcripts (high school and colleges) must be evaluated by a NACES Member- www.naces.org.
When are applications for the surgical technology program available/due?
Applications are typically available one month prior to the deadline. The deadline to apply to the Surgical Technology program is May 1st each year. Request the application from your assigned advisor or email cotcadvising@mail.cotc.edu.
Are there additional requirements if I’m accepted into the surgical technology program?
Yes. Students must have a CPR—American Heart Association Healthcare Provider Certificate for clinical sites upon being selected into the program.
How quickly can I complete the surgical technology program?
Students can complete the Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology degree in four semesters.
Where can I find a list of classes (plan of study) for the program I want to study?
Each program at COTC has a plan of study that lists the courses students take to complete a certificate or degree.
Can I take classes online or face-to-face?
Students will be required to take classes on campus for the surgical technology program.
What type of financial assistance is available to help me pay for college?
COTC awards more than $1 million in scholarships to students each year.
Every student is encouraged to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for grants, scholarships and loans.
Students who complete a FAFSA are automatically considered for some scholarships. Other scholarships require an application.
Connect with the Office of Student Financial Services at 740.366.9435 or email NWK-studentfinancialservices@mail.cotc.edu.
How do I get started at COTC?
Help us learn more about you by visiting our Future Students webpage, then follow the COTC Steps to Enroll to get started.