Surgical First Assistant
The Surgical First Assistant (SFA) College Certificate program is offered as one of three career options for students admitted into the Surgical Technology program. Enrollment in the program is limited due to the number of clinical learner positions available in each clinical setting. A student’s educational experience in the program includes classroom coursework (didactic) and practical (clinical) instruction in a peri-operative environment. Upon successfully completing the SFA Certificate program, students will also receive a Certificate of Completion and be eligible to sit for the national certification examination.
Everyone has a role in the operating room. The surgical first assistant acts as the lead associate with the surgeon. This is an ideal career if you are interested in the surgical process, enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, and want to be exposed to all aspects of surgery but don’t want the pressure of being the surgeon.
The Surgical Technology First Assistant Certificate at WCCCD is a limited enrollment program that will provide you with the needed coursework and clinical experience to secure an entry-level position, prepare you to complete the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) exam.
What’s the Job Outlook for Surgical Assistants and Technologists?
The job market for surgical assistants is projected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, with about 8,600 job openings expected annually.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Chron Work
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and by the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA). June 2024
Recommended course sequencing
Semester 1 Total: 10 Credits
- BIO 252 - Pathophysiology 4 Credit(s)
- SFA 200 - Fundamentals of Surgical First Assisting-Lecture 3 Credit(s)
- SFA 210 - Advance Surgical Pharmacology 3 Credit(s)
Semester 2 Total: 10 Credits
- SFA 253 - Surgical Anatomy Lecture and Lab 4 Credit(s)
- SFA 220 - Surgical Management of Patients - Lecture 3 Credit(s)
- SFA 230 - Surgical First Assistant Techniques - Lab 3 Credit(s)
Where is the Surgical Technology First Assistant – College Certificate Program Offered?
The Surgical Technology First Assistant – College Certificate Program is offered at our Northwest Campus. As a WCCCD student, you can take courses, use facilities, and get involved at any of our six locations.
It is the policy of WCCCD that no person, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status, disability, or political affiliation or belief, shall be discriminated against, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in employment or in any program or activity for which it is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education.
