Surgical Assistant – Bridge

Surgical Assisting Master's Bridge Program

The Surgical Assisting program aims to be a leader in training skilled surgical assistants. To meet the anticipated demand for qualified assistants in the surgical field and healthcare system, a master’s bridge program is offered. The Surgical Assistant – Bridge program helps practicing surgical assistants, who have obtained a surgical assistant certificate but not a master's degree, to advance their careers.

Our 12-month distance learning program begins in May and consists of 8 credit hours of directed study. The program is designed to allow participants to continue their daily professional practice while completing additional coursework in Surgical Assisting (M.S.A.).

At this time, the program is only open to graduates of the Surgical Assistant certificate program.

Admission

The Bridge Program is offered to individuals who meet the following criteria for admission:

• Have completed the Surgical Assistant certificate program
• Hold a bachelor's degree
• Hold a current surgical assisting certification
• Provide documentation of 72 hours of laparoscopic case experience

Application Procedure

All candidates must submit the following:

• Completed online application form
• Nonrefundable $60 application fee
• Laparoscopic Case Experience Form reflecting a minimum of 72 hours 
• Official transcripts confirming bachelor's degree

The Admissions Committee reviews all applications, and the program director extends admission invitations to successful applicants. Candidates who accept must submit a $300 deposit, which will be applied to first-semester tuition, to reserve their position in the program.

Curriculum

Before classes start, incoming students will receive an email with their school's email and login instructions to access myPortal and complete the required pre-matriculation modules. From MyPortal, students can access Blackboard, an online learning platform including course syllabi, lectures, assignments, and other information. Incoming students should also review the Computer Standards.

Students will complete the program in three consecutive terms over 12 months.

Tuition & Fees

The Surgical Assistant - Bridge program tuition and fees are set annually in June by the Board of Visitors and are subject to change without notice. Questions about tuition and fee charges on student accounts should be directed to Financial Services.

Tuition (2018-19)

• In-state: $865 per credit hour
• Out-of-state: $882 per credit hour
• Mandatory fees: $110

Books

The textbook cost is estimated to be $320 for the program.

Graduation

Individuals who complete the Surgical Assistant - Bridge program will be eligible to participate in graduation activities at an additional charge. Individuals must contact the program to obtain information about these fees.

Financial Aid

Individuals enrolled in the Surgical Assistant - Bridge program will not be eligible for federal aid because their student status will be less than half-time for the duration of the program. Individuals may seek private loan assistance but not federal loans.