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South College earns top rankings for its surgical technology program

Oct. 17, 2024

South College’s Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program in Knoxville has been ranked first in Tennessee, fourth in the Southeast region and 11th nationally by College Factual. South College also is ranked 15th nationally by Niche for top surgical technology schools.

Faculty members of South College’s Associate of Surgical Technology program in Knoxville demonstrate proper techniques to students at the Lonas Drive campus.

“We’re thrilled but not surprised by these elite rankings for the Surgical Technology program,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “Our dedication to equip students for a rewarding career in healthcare builds each day through brilliant and dedicated faculty and staff who prioritize learning, skill development, student resources and learning environments. We’re honored for this recognition.”

College Factual, a leading source for college data and insights, looked at 299 colleges and universities when compiling the 2024 rankings. Its website indicates that surgical technology is the 36th most popular major in the country, underscoring the importance of finding a school that is a good fit for students.  

Niche is an online tool that allows students to review schools based on multiple parameters. Rankings are based on analysis of college reviews from students and alumni and data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education and National Science Foundation.

South College was founded in Knoxville in 1882 and has two campuses – Lonas Drive and Parkside Drive – in the city. The locations offer professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs in multiple areas of study, including healthcare, business, education, computer science and more.

The associate level Surgical Technology program offers three paths, including two with concentrations, and students learn both in the classroom and in clinical settings. For more information about South College, visit south.edu.

About South College

South College serves more than 12,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and Competency-Based Education. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

About accreditation

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels. South College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling 404-679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (sacscoc.org).