LaGuardia Community College in Queens, NY, has launched a new certification program in surgical instrument sterilization. This program presents a hopeful pipeline for people looking to get into healthcare with low barriers to entry. This program does more than give students valuable skills—today’s developed economy provides an expected strong job outlook and average starting salaries.
The certification program normally costs $1,500, but the majority of this cost is covered by available scholarships. This direct cash financial assistance greatly reduces the financial barriers to entry for prospective, adult students. According to the college, more than 80% of students who enroll in this program successfully complete it and secure paid employment within the field.
Class are held on LaGuardia’s campus and students undergo several months of extensive classroom training. This part of the program helps prepare them for their new learnings to come — particularly as it relates to surgical instrument sterilization. After the course work is complete, students are responsible for passing a first-level certification exam, serving as an important hurdle to program success.
Beyond didactic education, students must fulfill a minimum of 108 clinical hours. The New York State Education Department oversees this requirement to ensure that students gain practical experience necessary for their future careers. LaGuardia helps students find unpaid internships that deliver valuable hands-on training in real-world settings, making them even more attractive to future employers.
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for surgical technologists & such roles is increasing steeply. It’s projected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033. This expansion is part of a larger phenomenon in healthcare, with the demand for skilled professionals rapidly outpacing supply. According to industry insiders, entry-level positions in surgical instrument sterilization should start at $50,000-$70,000 a year. This wide range makes it an attractive entry point for those looking to jumpstart their career in health care.
Yale student Shyann Lynch, who graduated from the program last year, highlighted the attractiveness of this career avenue. She stated, “It’s the highest paying job with the shortest amount of time,” highlighting the program’s efficiency and potential for rapid employment.
The field of surgical instrument sterilization acts as a portal to more lucrative careers, like surgical technicians or radiologists. As we all know the healthcare landscape is changing quickly. LaGuardia Community College’s program prepares these graduates to thrive in a solid and ascending job economy.
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