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Diploma Program

Sterile Processing Program
Online Classes/Training

Program Length

8 Mo.

Credits

24

Format

Online

Cost Per Credit

$515
calendar

NEXT START January 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Take online classes in sterile processing and prepare for success in your new career

AccreditationAccredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Program lengthAs few as 8 months (32 weeks)
Format100% online classes you can take right at home
CertificationPrepare for your first entry-level SPT job and the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam
QuickPathsEarn college credit you can potentially transfer into a Surgical Technologist degree program in the future—and greatly decrease the time needed to advance your career

Learn More Today!

Classes start: January 6th
Satisfaction rate

Over 90%

Satisfaction rate

Our overall student satisfaction rate, according to the 2023 Herzing Graduate Survey.

Overview: Online Diploma in Sterile Processing

The Diploma in Sterile Processing is a 24-credit career diploma program which prepares you for a career as a sterile processing technician.

The online diploma program provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in sterile processing and central services, surgical instrumentation, surgical services, and foundational courses such as basic medical terminology, psychology, microbiology and more.

Herzing University graduate receives her diploma
  • Career-focused curriculum

    Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

  • Flexible schedule

    You can take classes during the day or in the evening.  We work hard to help you maintain school-life balance, striving to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

  • Virtual services

    Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

  • Lifelong support

    We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

  • Rolling admissions

    No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Curriculum

Sterile Processing Program Classes & Curriculum Details

Our curriculum is designed to prepare you to quickly begin practicing as a sterile processing technician and build a strong foundation to continue pursuing your educational pathway and expand your area of expertise.

All lecture classes are delivered online (285 hours), including 150 lab hours to help you develop practical experience you can take into your first job.

ProgramMonths iCredits
Diploma in Sterile Processing824

Required Courses

All Courses, 22.00 semester credit hours are required.

This course introduces students to the process of conducting research, integrating research into written work, and understanding information literacy as a sociocultural phenomenon.  The research process involves assessing the rhetorical situation, engaging in preliminary research, developing research questions, taking stock of current knowledge, identifying gaps in current knowledge, using appropriate search tools and strategies, critically reading and evaluating information, and refining search strategies as necessary.  Integrating sources into written work involves understanding why, when, and how to use and document sources.  Microsoft Word will be used to format documents according to APA standards. Understanding information literacy as a sociocultural phenomenon involves identifying barriers to entering scholarly conversations and examining the way various cultures view information as a commodity, means of education, means to influence, and a means of negotiating and understanding the world. 

This course introduces common medical terms through the analysis of word components. Emphasis will be placed on the structure of terms-Greek and Latin roots, prefixes, and suffixes. A medical vocabulary will be developed through the study of the anatomical structures, physiological functions, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and pathologies of the body systems. Terminology will be practiced through the use of common abbreviations, spelling, pronunciation and definitions.

This course will introduce a psychological analysis of human behavior. Students will learn to apply a variety of theoretical perspectives in interpreting human behavior. Topics may include: psychological research methods; stages of human development; learning theories; personality; and abnormal psychology.

This course provides an introduction to the study of the structure and function of the human body. Topics include an introduction to homeostasis, cells, and tissues, along with a survey level study of organ systems and their interrelationships. The lab component of this course provides active learning to reinforce and clarify anatomical and physiological features of the body.

This course provides an introduction to the study of microorganisms.  It covers normal microbiota and pathogenic microbes.  Select topics include function, metabolism, genetics, growth, and relationships to humans and the environment. Topics related to human infectious diseases include transmission, host defense mechanisms, growth processes, and the spread of infectious agents. This course also includes a practical component. 

This course provides a broad study of the operative environment, professional roles, moral/legal/ethical responsibilities and medical communications used in surgical technology. Overview of the roles and responsibilities of the surgical technologist in the operating room and team. Discussion and learning around the patient center care and Maslow's Hierarchy of needs. Understanding the connection of all departments within the healthcare facility, and the professionalism required to maintain a surgical services department to include the roles and connection with the sterile processing department. Aseptic technique and concepts around what surgical consciousness is and how it is applied in this patient center healthcare job.

This course will introduce the job description, responsibilities, and physical demands required for this technical career path in sterile processing. An introduction to a wide variety of sterilization processes, machinery, and chemical uses. This course will discuss and describe the processes and importance of decontamination, cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of common equipment, supplies, and instrumentation used in the surgical services department. This course will examine, demonstrate, and define proper wrapping and packaging procedures and protocols for proper sterilization of instrumentation, equipment, devices, and surgical supplies. Overview and discussion around distribution of equipment and supplies from the Sterile Processing Department throughout a typical healthcare facility. An overview of these responsibilities as it relates to the sterile processing employee will be covered. Concepts of teamwork, communication and professional development in this career path will also be discussed.

This course introduces the student to a wide variety of surgical instruments used in the modern operating room. This extensive course offers a focus on learning proper names, correct spelling, function, and classifications of these instruments.  Discussion will occur around assembly and disassembly of complex instrumentation as it relates to inspection and troubleshooting associated with sterile processing. Specialized instrumentation such as robotics and endoscopic instrumentation will be explored. Complex surgical instruments and devices will be researched.

This interactive multimedia course offers an introduction to a variety of specialized equipment commonly used in the operating room and how working knowledge of these items tie directly to the roles and responsibilities of the Surgical Technologist. Surgical site prepping, wound healing, dressings, drains, and sutures commonly used in surgical procedures will be explored. The course is designed to enhance and integrate the information learned here, with the hands-on practice experienced in the operating room skills lab sequence.

Special Surgical Technology and General Education Grading Requirements

All Surgical Technology (courses with an ST prefix) must be completed with a grade of "C" (76%) or better for a student to be continued in the Sterile Processing program. The following general education course must be completed with a grade of "C" (70%) or better for a student to be continued in the Sterile Processing program:   •  SC 144 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology 

Personal and Professional Development Courses

2.00 semester credit hours are required.

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success.  Topics include but are not limited to Canvas support, student support services, e-books, university policies, resumes, self-reflection, time management, goal setting, and strategies for anxiety reduction.

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

Tution & Cost 

Tuition & Cost

The cost of tuition for the Sterile Processing diploma is $515 per credit.

You can potentially earn even greater savings by transferring credit from prior college coursework, applying for financial aid, or potential partnership opportunities through your employer.

Our goal is your career advancement. That's why we are always working to improve our curriculum and processes to make our program as affordable as possible while preparing you best for success in your work.

  • Scholarships & Financial Aid

    You may be eligible for multiple scholarships and grants—including our Nurses Circle of Achievement scholarship, which offers up to 10% tuition reduction.

    Find scholarships and grants  

  • Military/Veteran Discounts

    Veterans, Active Duty U.S. Servicemembers, and spouses may qualify for a 10% tuition discount or tuition reduction to $250 per credit.

    VA/Military benefits  

Requirements

Admission Requirements

Certification

Get educated, get certified, and thrive

Graduates are eligible to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification examination through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association.1

You can take the exam following 400 hours of professional experience. Your experience must be completed in a Sterile Processing/Central Service department, as a paid employee or volunteer. View the HSPA website to find more details about eligibility for the exam.

Your best prep for passing the exam and becoming certified is your education!

Sterile Processing Tech in Central Service Department
Careers

Begin a new career path in healthcare

Surgical Technician laying out sterile equipment Image
Image

Specific job titles in sterile processing will vary by hospital or other types of medical facilities. Potential job titles include:

  • Sterile Processing Tech/Technician (SPT)
  • Central Service Technician (CST)
  • Central Sterile Supply Technician (CSS Technician)
  • Central Processing Technician (CPT)
  • Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (SPD Tech)

These departments may utilize a hierarchy of SPTs. Entry-level positions may be regarded as “SPT 1” while more experienced SPTs can ascend to SPT 2, 3 or higher.

How can I advance my career? While you may be able to ascend the ranks in a central service department and potentially increase your responsibilities and pay, surgical technologist can represent an excellent next career step. You can transfer credit earned in our SPT diploma program into a surgical technology associate degree program, currently offered at our New Orleans campus.

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical equipment preparers is expected to grow 5% from 2022-2032, faster than the average across all U.S. occupations.*

Begin earning an education today and position yourself to quickly join this growing field. Becoming a sterile processing technician represents a good entry-level job that can be a launching pad to many potential career paths in healthcare.

Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Didn't find the answer to your question? Send us an inquiry and we will be happy to answer all your questions!

Sterile processing techs ensure medical instruments are properly inspected, cleaned, and sterilized for use across a hospital, clinic, physician’s office or other healthcare institution.

Technicians typically work in a Sterile Processing Department (SPD) in a hospital, sometimes called a Central Sterile Services Department (CSSD) or Central Supply Department (CSD). Sterile processing is a fast-paced, technical and detail-oriented job requiring high focus and clear collaboration with other medical staff.

Techs must follow strict processes for different types of equipment, using computers to track progress and provide verification that all instruments are accounted for and properly serviced.

Sterile processing techs do not work directly with patients, but their work is imperative to ensure every patient achieves positive health outcomes.

This can be a great starting point for more introverted personality types looking to quickly begin a new career path, become comfortable in a hospital environment, build valuable skills, and truly help those in need. 

Our sterile processing program is designed to transition easily into a surgical technology associate degree program. Knowledge and skills learned in a sterile processing diploma curriculum closely applies to similar roles and responsibilities as a surgical technologist.

Every state has their own requirements, but in general surgical technologists typically have greater minimum requirements for education and certification. Earning an associate degree in surgical technology is considered the preferred educational model for entry-level positions by the Associate of Surgical Technologists (AST).

If you live in New Orleans, you can transfer credit earned in our diploma program into an associate degree in surgical technology, currently offered at our New Orleans campus.

Here is the primary general distinction:

  • Sterile Processing Technicians are responsible for sterilizing equipment needed for medical procedures. Their duties are primarily outside of the operating room; however, their job function is critical to the operating room.
  • Surgical Technologists are responsible for aseptic technique, understanding surgical procedures and instruments, maintaining the sterile field, passing instruments during the sequence of the procedure, as well as many other duties. They function as the masters of aseptic technique in the operating room.

Job titles, duties and responsibilities can vary between different healthcare institutions. Different states might have their own unique restrictions for who is qualified to handle what responsibilities. Some states require that the surgical technologist have a current certification for employment. Some surgical technologists handle the sterilization of equipment as well.

Earning your associate degree and becoming a certified surgical technologist is your ticket to becoming an indispensable member of a surgical team, handle many different types of tasks and become highly valuable to employers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical equipment preparers earn an average annual salary of $47,410 per year ($22.79 per hour).*

According to HSPA, out of 8,056 CRCST exams taken in 2021, 75% passed the test. The exam is not a walk in the park! You’ll need to be well-prepared both academically and professionally to pass the exam and become certified.

The computer-based CRCST exam is 3 hours, containing 150 multiple choice questions testing your knowledge of cleaning, decontamination, disinfection, patient care equipment, sterilization process, and more.

Get educated, study hard, and you’ll be in the best possible position to pass the exam and become certified.

Working as a traveling sterile processing can be a great opportunity to see new places, experience different cultures and meet new people—all while building your skills in a rewarding career.

Every job posting will come with their own unique requirements for traveling sterile processing technicians. Be ready with an updated resume and immunization and health records. Getting certified is very important; these positions can be competitive and you’ll need every advantage you can get in the application process.

You may choose to sign up with a healthcare staffing agency to help you find the types of travel jobs you’re looking for.

Both certificate and diploma programs are field-specific credentials that do not include general education courses required in a degree program. Each can typically be completed faster than an associate degree program.

Certificates are typically the least comprehensive programs, providing the minimum career-focused training necessary to perform a certain type of job.

Diploma programs tend to be more in-depth than certificates, and can include hands-on experience to best prepare you for a wider variety of jobs in the field you’re pursuing.

Herzing University’s diploma programs exist to help you build the foundation for a long career beyond your very first job. Our diploma programs are designed to help you begin and grow your new career.

Yes!

Sterile processing represents both a good job option and potential springboard to a multitude of career possibilities. If you’re looking to get started fast in a new healthcare career path, sterile processing might be perfect for you.

Becoming a sterile processing technician begins by getting educated!

While formal education isn’t always required to earn your first entry-level job as a sterile processing technician, you will position yourself to flourish in the role—and open doors to future career possibilities—by building your knowledge and skills with the support of experienced faculty and staff dedicated to your success.

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The Student Experience at Herzing

The program surprised me in many pleasant ways, and now I’m happily done and moving into my career!

Catherine Lim
Healthcare Student | Online Campus

I knew that it was time to take the next step, and Herzing was the only school that gave me the second chance I needed to fulfill my education!

Stephanie Reeck
Healthcare Student | Online Campus

To all future students: communicate with your teachers. That's the key to success!

Tierra Wade
Healthcare Student | Orlando Campus

Herzing makes me believe that anyone can achieve their goals here. So much so that I’ll be returning for their Surgical Tech program next!

Tanjlia Page
Healthcare Student | Online Campus

My advice to all students is to simply push forward! You are never too old to finish, and you are never too busy to reach your dreams.

Malissa White
Healthcare Student | New Orleans Campus
Disclosures
Disclosures

Accreditation & Disclosures

1. Certification in this program is not a state requirement.

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2023 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.

Classes Start: January 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.