By Hannah Campbell with Region 8 News

MARKED TREE, Ark. (KAIT) - Arkansas State University Newport’s (ASUN) surgical technology program is expanding to its Marked Tree campus, with officials saying it will make much-needed medical education programs more accessible.

The surgical technology program gives students hands-on experience, something people would normally have to go to the Newport campus for or participate in a program in Memphis.

Christopher Madden, the director of surgical technology, says the program is in such high demand in Newport that it was a no-brainer to expand the program to Marked Tree.

Madden says the expansion will serve the area and benefit people all over, even as far away as Memphis, by adding 20 more student slots.

“There’s a huge need for this profession,” Madden said. “In Memphis alone, there are 42 surgical facilities. A lot of opportunity for the younger students or older students in this area.”

Madden said surgical technology jobs are in high demand.

What’s more, he says it can open several doors, not only in surgery but after a few years of working in the field, students can return to ASUN and be instructors.

Madden says the 12-month program is nationally accredited, meaning graduates can get a job anywhere in the United States.

Applications are due June 30.

Classes begin on Aug. 9. For more on the program, click here.

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