SWOSU Surgical Technology Earns National Accreditation, Expands Enrollment

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has earned national accreditation for its Surgical Technology program. The achievement recognizes the education and clinical training students receive at SWOSU and opens a path to national certification for graduates. After completing the program and meeting examination requirements, graduates can take the Certified Surgical Technologist examination to earn the credential.

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) awarded accreditation effective Sept. 18, 2026. The program began through a partnership between SWOSU and Great Plains Regional Medical Center in Elk City.

"Our students are at the heart of this achievement. National accreditation opens a pathway to certification, and adding a spring start creates more opportunities to enter the profession," said Ashley Davis, director of SWOSU's Surgical Technology program. "This progress reflects the hard work of our faculty, staff, and students, and the support of our clinical partners and university leadership. Together, we are helping prepare the next generation of surgical technologists to serve Oklahoma communities."

SWOSU is also making room for more students to enter the profession. The first spring classes begin Jan. 11, 2027. With up to 12 students entering each fall and spring, the program will double its annual admission capacity to 24. Prospective students will have two opportunities each year to begin their training instead of waiting for a fall start.

Hands-on instruction helps students in SWOSU's Surgical Technology program become familiar with the instruments they will use as members of surgical teams.

Students earn an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology through a combination of online lectures, laboratory instruction and clinical education at approved affiliate sites. The program prepares graduates for entry-level surgical technology positions. Surgical technologists prepare operating rooms, maintain sterile conditions and provide instruments and supplies during procedures, all responsibilities that support patient safety.

Clinical partners across Oklahoma help students put those skills into practice. Students gain experience in health care settings that connects classroom and laboratory learning with the responsibilities they will take on in the operating room.

With national accreditation and an additional admission period, SWOSU can offer more students a path to a degree and national certification in surgical technology. The program's growth also expands the university's capacity to prepare skilled professionals for the hospitals and surgical facilities that serve Oklahoma communities.

Applications are currently open for the spring start. The program accepts applications on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis. Program information and application instructions are available at https://www.swosu.edu/allied-health/surgical-technology/index.php.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves more than 5,000 students and prides itself on affordability, small class sizes, and over 200 faculty and staff committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.

For more information about Southwestern Oklahoma State University, visit www.swosu.edu.