January 13, 2009 – According to the Association of Surgical Technologists, Albany Technical College Surgical Technology students ranked 13th in the nation on the Performance Assessment Exam (PAE) in the 2007-2008 academic year. Albany Tech also placed in the Top 20 in the PAE scores in 2006-2007 ranking 4th in the nation. The PAE is an assessment exam given to surgical technology students prior to graduation. All Surgical Technology instructors administer this exam as a tool to measure the knowledge retained by students throughout the program.
“If a student passes the PAE, it’s an indicator that they are prepared for their national boards,” said Surgical Technology Chairperson, Lori Day. “Many employers require certification for employment, therefore, a student’s performance and knowledge of the material is extremely important. We are proud of our students’ hard-work and success.”
The National Certification Exam for surgical technologists recently replaced the PAE. Certification is the first step towards turning their education into a profession. Albany Tech surgical technology graduates achieved a 100% pass rate on the national certification exam in Summer and Fall Quarter 2008.
“Eighteen students sat for the certification exam, and all 18 passed,” said Day. “Their pass rate proves that Albany Tech is delivering quality education and that our students are working diligently to achieve their educational goals.”