MARIA COLLEGE LAUNCHES NEW SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM TO ADDRESS CRITICAL HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE SHORTAGE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Albany, N.Y. (February 10, 2025) — Maria College will launch an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology this fall to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals both regionally and nationally.
The 68-credit program, developed in partnership with St. Peter’s Health Partners, fast-tracks students into the high-demand field of surgical technology, which is projected to grow 7% by 2032.
“Surgical technologists set up equipment, help prepare patients for surgery, assist the surgeon throughout the procedure, and maintain sterile conditions in the operating room,” explained Dr. Lynn Ortale, president of Maria College. “Our program will equip students to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in the Capital Region and beyond, providing healthcare facilities with essential support while offering rewarding career opportunities for our graduates. With this degree, Maria College continues to honor the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy and their commitment to excellence in healthcare and service to members of our community.”
The program offers flexible options with both day (four semesters) and evening (six semesters) formats. The curriculum blends courses in anatomy, microbiology, and psychology with specialized surgical technology training, involving preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of surgical case management.
Students will also benefit from advanced VR technology, enabling them to practice realistic scenarios and improve their skills before entering real operating rooms. This approach ensures students develop technical proficiency and remain calm and focused under pressure.
“What truly sets our program apart is the hands-on experience at St. Peter’s Hospital,” said Dr. Wendy Trevor, vice president for strategic innovation and partnerships at Maria College. “By practicing in a fully equipped surgical suite, students gain firsthand experience in a live hospital environment.”
“We are excited to partner with Maria College to provide access to a state-of-the-art surgical suite,” said Meredith Robison, chief nursing officer, St. Peters Health Partners Acute Care. “The suite, complete with operating tables, scrub sinks, and space for simulation equipment, will help train the next generation of surgical technologists. By addressing the region’s surgical tech shortage, this program will not only shape future professionals, but also strengthen the skilled workforce needed to deliver exceptional patient care.”
Dr. Trevor said the AAS degree will equip students to take the National Certification Examination administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). “It's an excellent career path for those looking to be part of a collaborative healthcare team, working alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and registered nurses to deliver patient care during surgeries,” she said.
Upon graduation, students will be ready to enter the workforce as surgical technologists in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. Salaries for surgical technologists range from $43,000 to $80,000+, depending on experience, location, and certifications.
“The AAS in Surgical Technology supports the college’s mission to offer accessible, high-quality education while promoting the health and well-being of the community,” concluded Dr. Ortale. “This program strengthens Maria College's role as a leader in healthcare education in the Capital Region.”
For more information or to apply, prospective students can visit mariacollege.edu/surgtech or call 518-438-3111.
About Maria College
Founded in 1958, Maria College is one of 17 colleges and universities in the United States sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. The private, co-educational, Catholic college in Albany serves approximately 800 students in a variety of bachelor’s, associate’s and master’s degree, and certificate programs, including liberal arts, healthcare management, nursing, psychology, occupational therapy, public health, and health and occupational sciences. Learn more at MariaCollege.edu.
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Maria College is launching its AAS Surgical Technology degree this fall, in partnership with St. Peter’s Health Partners. Students will gain hands-on experience in a live hospital surgical suite and use advanced VR technology to refine their skills. With the field expected to grow 7% by 2032, the program prepares students for high-demand, rewarding careers. Pictured in the operating room at St. Peter’s Hospital (L to R): Meredith Robison, chief nursing officer, St. Peters Health Partners Acute Care; Jeffrey Stone, director of surgical services and procedural areas, St. Peters Health Partners; and, Dr. Lynn Ortale, president, Maria College.
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Maria College is launching its AAS Surgical Technology degree this fall, in partnership with St. Peter’s Health Partners. Students will gain hands-on experience in a live hospital surgical suite and use advanced VR technology to refine their skills. With the field expected to grow 7% by 2032, the program prepares students for high-demand, rewarding careers. Pictured are Meredith Robison, chief nursing officer, St. Peters Health Partners Acute Care and Dr. Lynn Ortale, president, Maria College.