Prepare for a career as a Sterile Processing Technician

Play a critical role in preventing infection by sterilizing, cleaning, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing medical supplies.

As a Sterile Processing Technician, you’ll play a vital role in preventing infections by ensuring medical equipment is clean and sterile. This is a critical role in healthcare, and demand for skilled professionals is consistently growing.

Upon completion of this course and the required clinical hours, students are prepared to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

Health professionals smiling

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job growth for medical and clinical laboratory technicians (which includes sterile processing technicians) to be faster than average through 2031.

3
Months to Complete
$2,095
Course Fee
$$$
Funding Options Available

Our program will prepare you for a rewarding career with:

  • Hands-on training: Learn the latest techniques in cleaning, processing, and sterilizing medical instruments.
  • National certification: Prepare for the CRCST exam, a valuable credential that demonstrates your expertise.
  • Career advancement: Our program can be a stepping stone to supervisory roles or other healthcare careers.

What you’ll learn:

  • Foundations of healthcare
  • Sterile processing techniques
  • Infection control measures
  • Medical terminology

Individuals interested in sterile processing are often motivated by a desire to help others, a strong work ethic, and an interest in healthcare. They might also be drawn to the stable job outlook and potential for career advancement.

  • Program highlights:
    • Start Dates: Early September, March
    • Days: Tues/Thurs evenings, Saturday mornings
    • Affordable tuition: Our program offers competitive pricing.
    • Experienced instructors: Learn from seasoned professionals in the field.
    • Materials: books (about $188), scrubs (about $50). Computer with webcam and strong internet connection required for successful completion.

 

PREREQUISITES:

  • Foundations of healthcare
  • Sterile processing techniques
  • Infection control measures
  • Medical terminology

This program has two start dates each year: one in early September and again in March. Classes meet Tuesday & Thursday evenings, as well as Saturday mornings.

Be sure to complete your prerequisites in time!

How to Enroll

Complete Medical Terminology Course

In order to enroll in this program, students must be at least 18 years old, and have a High School Diploma or GED.

Students should first complete the 6-week course: Medical Terminology:  A Word Association Approach ($135).

Register for Medical Terminology
Approval to Enroll

Once you’ve completed the Medical Terminology course, email us for approval to enroll. We’ll send you the appropriate registration form to get started.

Students will register for Foundations of Healthcare (CEH 437) and Sterile Processing (CEH 436) at the same time.

Email for Approval
Pay & Prep
Payment for this course is due at the time of registration. Explore Ways to Pay below for additional information. Deferred tuition payment plans are available to students whose bills exceed $500. Before the semester begins, buy your textbooks and other needed supplies, check out the location of your courses, and get ready for your first day of class.

equipped for the FUTURE

WAYS TO PAY

Convenient payment options for noncredit students.

At Chesapeake College, we offer several payment options to help you manage your tuition and fees in a way that best suits your financial situation. Whether you’re paying upfront, setting up a payment plan, or utilizing employer sponsorship, we’ve got you covered.

Apply for Scholarships

This program qualifies for an assortment of institutional scholarships, Workforce Investment Board funding, and Maryland Promise Scholarships, among others. Before registering for your course, make sure you have allowed ample time to apply for scholarships at the link below. 

The healthcare industry in Maryland is expanding, leading to a strong demand for sterile processing technicians. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job growth for medical and clinical laboratory technicians (which includes sterile processing technicians) to be faster than average through 2031.

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