Kirtland and Bay Mills Forge Strategic Partnership to Expand Educational Pathways for Surgical Technologists
Kirtland Community College and Bay Mills Community College (BMCC) are pleased to announce a partnership aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for students in the health sciences field. Beginning Spring 2024, BMCC students who have successfully attained their health science certificate will have the opportunity to transition into Kirtland’s esteemed Associate of Applied Science degree program in surgical technology, facilitated through a newly established articulation agreement. This collaborative initiative continues the commitment both institutions have in fostering academic excellence and facilitating the educational advancement of students pursuing careers in the health sciences.
In order to be admitted to the Kirtland program, BMCC students are mandated to achieve a minimum grade of C in their health science coursework. Over the course of two years—one academic term at BMCC and another at Kirtland—students can successfully complete the comprehensive surgical technology program offered by Kirtland. Upon graduation from Kirtland, students will be eligible to take the National Certification Examination, a pivotal step towards obtaining certification as a surgical technologist. This structured educational pathway ensures academic standards and positions graduates for success in their professional pursuits.
“We are excited to collaborate with Kirtland Community College on helping our students to earn a degree in surgical technology. It is also beneficial to the local community, as surgical technologists are in high demand in our area,” said Science Department Chair and Faculty member Natalia V. Chugunov, MD.
Surgical technologists work in hospitals, outpatient centers, and doctor offices. Their day is often spent in the operating room, preparing for and assisting with all types of surgeries.
As per the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists can anticipate a median annual salary of $51,000. Furthermore, during their professional career, the potential for expansion through additional training and education are countless, reflecting the dynamic nature of the field and the opportunities for career advancement within the surgical technology domain.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment of surgical technologists will continue to grow due to advances in medical technology and more operations are being done to treat many types of illnesses and injuries.
“Kirtland Community College is excited about our new surgical technology partnership with Bay Mills Community College. We welcome future transfer students into our surgical technology program and look forward to training them to be quality members of the operating room team,” said Kirtland’s Director of Surgical Technology Nicole Claussen, MS, CST, FAST. “Our surgical technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and includes hands-on clinical training available at many northern Michigan health systems. Students can be assured that they will receive an excellent education for their chosen career.”
The articulation agreement went into effect on Dec. 6. The two schools will review the agreement every two years to either renew or amend the document.
Information regarding the application process for Surgical Technology at KCC can be online at https://www.kirtland.edu/programs-we-offer/surgical-technology-program/#application-process. Students interested in starting their studies at BMCC can reach out to Dr. Chugunov by emailing her at [email protected].
