Skip Navigation Back to Top

An operating room nurse represents the Perioperative 101 Certificate program at Curry CollegePerioperative 101 is a non-credit six-month certificate preparation program that prepares RNs to sit for certification through Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN).  The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining in-class and online learning activities.  The AORN has developed a full curriculum designed to meet the national standards established for this role.  A certification in perioperative nursing gives professional nurses the necessary experience and knowledge to succeed in this practice area.

Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics stated that job opportunities for all registered nurses, including those working in an operating room, would grow by 16% from 2014-2024, which is faster than average for all occupations. The mean annual wages for registered nurses in 2019 was $77,460.

Are you working within a healthcare system that is anticipating a shortage of perioperative nurses?  If so, contact your Nursing Leaders, we would be happy to arrange a financial agreement with your Institution.

Join us to learn more about degree and non-degree programs and classes available through the Division of Continuing and Graduate Studies.

Continuing Education Programs:

Complete your Bachelor's Degree at Curry!

Monday, November 18 @ 4:00 p.m. - Register

ACCEL or AE-MSN (Nursing):

Which program is right for you?

Tuesday, December 10 @ 5:00 p.m. -  Register

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Learn about the new Hyflex format!

Tuesday, November 12 @ 12:00 p.m. - Register

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice

Join us to learn how a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice will advance your career!

Thursday, November 21 @ 12:00 p.m. - Register

MBA & Master of Science in Accounting

Learn more about the Curry Online MBA & MSA Programs.

Tuesday, November 19 @ 5:30 p.m. - Register

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

Is it the right time to earn your M.Ed?

Wednesday, November 13 @ 3:30 p.m. - Register

RN-BS in Nursing

Are you an RN looking to continue for your BS in Nursing? Join us!

Wednesday, November 13 @ 4:00 p.m. - Register

Connect with an Advisor

There's no need to wait for us to schedule an information session. Our knowledgeable advisors are available to meet with you via Zoom or phone to answer your questions. Get started on your way to earning your degree!

Schedule a one-on-one appointment now

Or even better, connect with an advisor by calling the campus of your choice:

Milton: 617-333-2364
Plymouth: 508-747-2424

  • New graduate nurses seeking a career in perioperative nursing
  • Novice perioperative nurses
  • Experienced nurses switching specialties
  • OR nurses returning to work after an extended absence
  • Experienced nurses without formal, didactic education seeking to improve their perioperative skills

As surgical care advances, so does the scope of nurses' responsibilities. Operating Room (OR) nurses are now referred to as Perioperative Registered Nurses to more accurately reflect their duties immediately before, during, and after surgery. Perioperative registered nurses are relied on for their professional judgment and critical thinking skills. They work closely with the surgical patient, family members, and other health care professionals. Perioperative RNs plan, implement, and evaluate treatment of the patient.

As a Registered Nurse, there is no better way to prepare for the growing demands of the dynamic workplace than to further your education. Learning has no age limit. Here are some of the reasons you may want to pursue the perioperative certificate:

  • Supports career advancement and broadens career options in nursing
  • Enhances personal and professional growth
  • Improves critical-thinking skills
  • Provides opportunity to demonstrate mastery of nationally recognized nursing standards and evidence-based practices

Program Schedule

Perioperative 101 Certificate candidates must hold an RN license.

  • The next cohort begins September 17, 2025 through March 18, 2026.
  • Course meetings are Wednesdays, 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.
  • Most classes take place over zoom with (1) skill lab taking place at Curry’s Milton campus and (2) skill labs taking place at Boston Medical Center.
  • Clinical will begin in Week 9. You will engage in 192 hours (two 8-hour shifts a week over 12 weeks) of a precepted clinical experience with a perioperative RN in the OR; circulating and scrubbing (as clinical site can support).

Requirements

  • $35 application fee
  • Current Resume
  • Massachusetts RN License (We cannot arrange clinical placement outside of the state of Massachusetts. If you are a registered nurse with a license from another state and wish to attend the program you need to apply for a Massachusetts license by reciprocity.)

Get Started: Apply Today

We're excited you're considering Curry's high-quality programs. We look forward to helping you reach your career goals.