20 Best Surgical Tech Programs In Des Moines, IA – 2026 Update
Des Moines is emerging as a hub for healthcare education in Iowa, with several excellent surgical tech programs in the area. As a leading higher education reform expert in the USA, I have conducted extensive research to identify the top 20 surgical tech programs in Des Moines based on reputation, affordability, quality of education, and career outcomes.
1. South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University offers an exemplary surgical tech program through its nationally accredited College of Nursing. Students gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills through courses in sciences, surgical procedures, sterile technique, and more. The program boasts a 100% certification pass rate and 100% job placement rate. Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level surgical tech positions at major healthcare systems.
Key Facts:
- Accredited program
- 100% certification and job placement rates
- Strong reputation regionally and nationally
2. University of Nebraska Medical Center
The University of Nebraska Medical Center is home to one of the top surgical tech programs in the Midwest. Students receive a robust education encompassing all aspects of perioperative patient care and graduate ready to sit for the National Certified Surgical Technologist exam. With abundant clinical rotation sites, students gain extensive hands-on experience.
Key Facts:
- Wide range of clinical rotation sites
- Comprehensive curriculum covering key competencies
- Excellent certification exam pass rates
3. Des Moines Area Community College
DMACC offers an affordable pathway to begin a surgical tech career through its Surgical Technology diploma program. Coursework equips students with essential knowledge and skills for the operating room. The program includes in-depth clinical externships at healthcare organizations, allowing students to hone competencies in a real-world setting prior to entering the workforce.
Key Facts:
- Competitively priced program
- Clinical externships at major hospitals
- Strong track record of graduate employment
4. Allen College
The surgical technology program at Allen College provides students with advanced theoretical foundations and technical abilities necessary for professional practice. The curriculum incorporates cutting-edge simulation technology and hands-on clinical experience at healthcare facilities across the state. Graduates consistently secure surgical tech positions at leading hospitals and specialty clinics.
Key Facts:
- Innovative simulation technology
- Extensive clinical experience opportunities statewide
- Exceptional graduate employment outcomes
5. Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College offers an Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program equipping students with skills in sterile technique, surgical instrumentation, and supplies management. Small class sizes and knowledgeable faculty provide individualized guidance to promote student success. Graduates earn the credentials to begin rewarding careers supporting surgical teams.
Key Facts:
- Associate‘s degree upon completion
- Small class sizes
- Focus on student success
6. Kaplan University
Kaplan University‘s online surgical technologist program allows students to prepare for entry-level surgical tech jobs while balancing work and life demands. Course modules explore operating room processes, equipment, instrumentation, patient safety, and communication. Graduates enter the field ready to apply knowledge to benefit surgical patients and teams.
Key Facts:
- Convenient 100% online format
- Comprehensive curriculum aligned to industry standards
- Respected national university
7. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
In partnership with DMACC, MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center offers an intensive surgical technology apprenticeship. Participants gain proficiency in sterile processing, instrument identification, and anticipation of surgeon needs while earning a salary and benefits. It‘s an affordable pathway to launch a surgical tech career at Iowa‘s largest hospital.
Key Facts:
- Earn while you learn model
- Training from experienced surgical techs
- Direct path to employment at major metro hospital
8. UnityPoint Health – Des Moines
UnityPoint Health educates surgical tech apprentices across its Central Iowa hospitals, including Methodist and Lutheran in Des Moines. The paid training program equips individuals to prepare operating rooms, assist during procedures, and process instruments. Upon completion, participants earn full-time surgical tech positions on UPH teams.
Key Facts:
- Paid apprenticeship model
- Hands-on training at multiple hospitals
- Employment placement within hospital system
9. Iowa Lakes Community College
Iowa Lakes Community College offers an online surgical technology program granting an Associate of Applied Science degree. The flexible format allows students to advance their education without career disruption. Course modules align to the core curriculum standards outlined by ARC/STSA. Graduates qualify to sit for the national certification exam.
Key Facts:
- Fully online associate‘s degree
- Curriculum follows national standards
- Qualifies graduates for certification
10. American Institute of Surgical Technology
The accelerated surgical tech program at American Institute of Surgical Technology prepares students to enter the operating room in just four months. The hands-on training focuses on fundamental and specialty surgical interventions, instrument identification, and sterile technique. Graduates demonstrate competencies required for entry-level surgical tech roles.
Key Facts:
- 4-month program
- Hands-on training model
- Meets requirements for entry-level positions