We are the only master's-level surgical assisting program in the United States. All other programs award certificates or associate degrees. Our graduate-level curriculum provides advanced credentials for career advancement and leadership positions.
The program is highly competitive with an acceptance rate of approximately 15-20%. We typically receive 50 -80 applications for 24 positions annually.
The program is full-time and immersive, requiring daytime attendance for both didactic and clinical phases. Working during the program is not recommended due to the intensive curriculum and clinical training schedule.
Students complete clinical rotations at prestigious institutions including Mayo Clinic, Rush University Medical Center, and regional academic medical centers throughout Virginia.
Yes, the program holds accreditation from CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) in collaboration with the Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA).
The program is 22 months of full-time study. Year 1 consists of 10 months of intensive didactic coursework. Year 2 is 12 months of full-time clinical rotations across multiple surgical specialties.
OR experience is not required but is some healthcare experience is recommended. Strong applicants typically have healthcare experience and some exposure to surgical environments through observation or work experience.
Outstanding. 100% of graduates receive job offers before graduation. Surgical assistants are in high demand with 9,220 unfilled positions nationally (33% shortage). The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% annual growth through 2034, and the profession has federal Bright Outlook designation.
No. The program ensures that students receive exposure to as many surgical specialties as possible. This provides graduates with greater options for employment after graduation.
No. The surgical assisting program requires hands-on training and in-person clinical rotations. The didactic phase is on-campus, and the clinical phase is at affiliated healthcare facilities.
