Program Description

The program in surgical technology, leading to the Associate of Science degree, is a cohort based, in-person, full-time 21-month program that begins each Fall Term. Students progress through didactic coursework and simulation laboratory training that culminates in clinical experience at Loma Linda University Health facilities and affiliated hospitals during the final two quarters. Students conclude the program by sitting for the Certified Surgical Technology (CST) credential.

Program Length

21 Months

Possible Careers

A Surgical Technologist can pursue a variety of career paths within and beyond the operating room. Common roles include assisting in general surgery and in specialties such as orthopedics, cardiovascular, neurosurgery, and obstetrics, where they prepare operating rooms, manage sterile instruments, and support surgical teams. With experience, the Surgical Technologist can advance into positions like Surgical First Assistant, or manager, or educator in surgical technology programs. Additionally, Surgical Technologists may pursue careers in travel assignments, offering flexibility and competitive compensation. Non-clinical opportunities also exist in medical device sales, healthcare recruiting, and training roles, making the Surgical Technologist foundation an entry point for dynamic careers in healthcare.

Discipline Accrediting Agency

The Surgical Technology Program at Loma Linda University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 25400 US Highway 19 North, Suite 158, Clearwater, FL 33763; 727-210-2350; website: http://www.caahep.org. This accreditation is granted upon recommendation by the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA).

Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.

Expected Cost of Attendance

The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.

Required Program Costs

Academic Year 2026-2027

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
12
Tuition & Fees $18,120 $23,800
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school) 		$120 $160

Other Educational Costs

Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
12
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
    		•  $12,447 $16,596
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
    		•  $21,942 $29,256
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
    		• $22,437 $29,916
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
    		•  $7,650 $10,200
  • Off Campus
    		•  $21,942 $29,256
    Transportation Allowance $3,150 $4,200
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $3,285 $4,380
    Federal Student Loan Fees $58 $69
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request

    Notes

    The cost of attendance varies from year to year.  Please contact the office of Student Finance for up-to-date costs.

    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.
    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.
    PDF version