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How do I become a surgical tech in Tennessee?

Author

Mia Ramsey

Published Mar 17, 2026

How do I become a surgical tech in Tennessee?

Requirements for Surgical Technologists in Tennessee

Complete a post-secondary educational program in surgical technology accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) Complete training in surgical technology as a member of the armed forces.

Accordingly, how many years do you have to go to school to be a surgical tech?

Learners can typically complete a surgical technician certificate or associate degree in 1-2 years. Bachelor's in surgical technology programs take up to four years.

Also, how much does a CST make in Tennessee? CST Salary in Nashville, TN

Annual SalaryHourly Wage
Top Earners$81,145$39
75th Percentile$69,969$34
Average$58,282$28
25th Percentile$48,590$23

Simply so, can you be a surgical tech without a degree?

Becoming a surgical tech requires a certificate, diploma, or associate degree, which range in price from about $5,000 to $15,000. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for surgical techs in May 2020 was $51,510, and these jobs will grow 7% by 2029.

Is Surgical Tech School Hard?

Becoming a surgical tech isn't nearly as difficult as becoming a doctor, but you can't exactly waltz straight from high school into the OR, either. Be prepared to get a certificate or degree, pass muster in an internship and earn some credentials. The right skills will help, as well.

Are surgical techs in demand?

Job Outlook

Employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 9,000 openings for surgical technologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

How much do entry level surgical techs make?

An Entry Level Surgical Tech in your area makes on average $49,945 per year, or $1,155 (2%) more than the national average annual salary of $48,790.

What classes do you take for Surgical Tech?

Choosing a Surgical Tech School

Coursework includes surgical procedures, pharmacology, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology. Students in associate's degree programs must also complete general education and science requirements.

How do you get certified as a surgical tech?

Earning a surgical tech certification is a 2-step process:
  1. Step 1 – Complete a program. Successfully complete an accredited surgical technician program.
  2. Step 2 – Pass the exam. Take and pass the Certified Surgical Technologist exam.

Is surgical technology a good career?

Job security is one of the most attractive benefits of any career in the healthcare field, and surgical technology is no exception. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that between 2018 and 2028, employment opportunities for surgical technologists will grow at a faster-than-average rate of nine percent.

Whats the difference between a surgical tech certificate and associate degree?

Certificate and diploma programs can take less than a year while an associate's degree program takes less than two years. However, the best way for you to become a certified surgical technologist is by earning a certificate or degree through a program that is accredited.

How much money does an operating room tech make?

While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $77,000 and as low as $27,500, the majority of Operating Room Technician salaries currently range between $46,000 (25th percentile) to $73,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $76,500 annually across the United States.

How long does it take to be a surgical assistant?

It may take at least five or six years to complete training and education to become a surgeon assistant. An associate degree program will take about two years to complete, while a bachelor's degree program can take three to four years to complete.

What does a non certified surgical tech do?

Surgical Tech-non-certified facilitates the safe and efficient performance of surgical procedures. Responsibilities: Prepares surgical operating suite with sterile drapes and sterile solutions as well as appropriate sterile and non-sterile instruments and supplies.

What are the pros and cons of being a surgical technician?

  • Pro: Growth in Jobs is Strong.
  • Pro: Enjoy a Good Salary as a Surgical Tech.
  • Pro: Minimal Education Requirements.
  • Con: The Work is Physically Demanding.
  • Con: Hours Can Be Long and Include On-Call Time.
  • Pro: Surgical Technologists Have Room for Advancement.
  • Pro: Making a Difference for People Every Day.

How many hours does a surgical tech work?

Most Surgical Technologists work a regular 40-hour week, although they may be on-call or work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating basis. In addition, they may be required to work a variety of shifts, as operations may be conducted at any time of the day or night.

How much do scrub techs make in TN?

Surgical Tech Salary in Tennessee
Annual SalaryHourly Wage
Top Earners$70,505$34
75th Percentile$59,695$29
Average$46,623$22
25th Percentile$41,363$20

How much do Surg Techs Make in Tennessee?

The average salary for a surgical technologist in Tennessee is around $42,350 per year.

How much does a surgical nurse make?

Medical Surgical Nurse Salary
PercentileSalaryLocation
25th Percentile Medical Surgical Nurse Salary$89,252US
50th Percentile Medical Surgical Nurse Salary$98,651US
75th Percentile Medical Surgical Nurse Salary$109,901US
90th Percentile Medical Surgical Nurse Salary$120,144US

What is the salary of a dental hygienist?

Average Dental Hygienist Salary by State
StateEmployed Dental HygienistsAverage Annual Salary
District of Columbia180$94,650
Florida11,830$67,870
Georgia5,690$66,330
Hawaii980$86,970