Gulf Coast State College Surgical Technology Program Earns CAAHEP Accreditation

Press Release from Elizabeth Humphries

Panama City, FL ­– Gulf Coast State College is proud to announce that its Surgical Technology program has earned national reaccreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), one of the most respected accrediting bodies in the field of health sciences education.

This recognition confirms the program’s commitment to excellence in both academic instruction and hands-on clinical training. Students gain a strong foundation in surgical technology that reflects current industry standards and prepares them to compete in today’s job market.

With accreditation at this level, students can trust that their education provides the knowledge, technical skills, and professional preparation required for certification and employment. It also opens the door to career advancement opportunities in a growing healthcare field.

“Achieving this accreditation reflects the dedication of our faculty and clinical partners, and the strength of our curriculum,” said Brittany Page, Program Coordinator for Surgical Services. “Our students leave the program ready to step into operating rooms and provide safe, effective care from day one.”

Employers benefit as well, knowing that graduates have completed a nationally accredited program grounded in quality and real-world relevance. Whether placed in hospitals, outpatient centers, or specialty surgical teams, they bring immediate value to healthcare environments.

As the demand for surgical technologists continues to rise, this accreditation reinforces Gulf Coast’s role in preparing qualified, career-ready professionals for the region’s workforce.

“Choosing a CAAHEP – accredited program is crucial for students seeking a career in allied Health,” said Dr. Barry S. Eckert, President of CAAHEP. “It ensures that they receive an education that is both comprehensive and relevant to current industry needs, ultimately benefiting their future employers and people receiving care.”

This milestone highlights the program’s commitment to student success and its alignment with national expectations for health sciences education.

For more information about Gulf Coast State College’s Surgical Technology program, including admissions details, curriculum, and upcoming application deadlines, visit gulfcoast.edu/surgical-technology or contact Brittany Page, Program Coordinator, at bpage2@gulfcoast.edu or (850) 873-3551.

About Gulf Coast State College

Serving the community since 1957, Gulf Coast State College was the first public two-year institution to open after the 1957 Florida Legislature established a statewide network of community colleges. Located in Panama City, FL, Gulf Coast State College is one of 28 public colleges in the state. The college has gone through several name changes over the decades beginning with Gulf Coast Community College in 1957. In 1958, the name changed to Gulf Coast Junior College, prompted by a change in mission to restrict offerings to academic programs. In 1970, the college changed its name back to Gulf Coast Community College as its mission expanded to include service to the community. In 2011, the name changed to Gulf Coast State College after receiving accreditation to award four-year degrees. Gulf Coast State College will deliver life-changing learning opportunities and will join as a full partner in dynamic cultural and economic development of the region. Gulf Coast State College holds students and community of central importance. The college provides many opportunities for learning and offers a range of programs and services to help students become well-educated, productive citizens. The college is equally dedicated to collaborating with the community to help create or improve economic well-being and to offer the space of the college for social dialog, events of art and culture, and other moments that enhance our quality of life.