Call (831) 424-6767 or Text (831) 256-3921
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or Text (831) 256-3921

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STERILE PROCESSING TECHNICIAN

STERILE PROCESSING TECHNICIAN

If you are interested in our Sterile Processing program, join us for an Information Session on Monday, August 11 at 12pm (noon) and 5pm. Click HERE to find out more.

If you are wanting a career in healthcare that is integral to keeping a facility clean, Sterile Processing could be for you. Sterile Processing Technician is the core department within a healthcare facility in which medical/surgical supplies and equipment, both sterile and non-sterile, are decontaminated, processed, sterilized, stored and used for patient care.

The Sterile Processing Technician program at Central Coast College prepares you to enter a vital part of healthcare in just 34 weeks. 

What are you waiting for?  Click here to get started.

Sterile Processing Technician program

At Central Coast College, our Sterile Processing Technician program is designed to prepare students to enter a medical career and play a critical role in preventing infection. Sterile Processing Technicians sterilize, clean, process, assemble, store, and distribute medical equipment and reusable surgical instrumentation, utilizing infection control and safety practices during all phases of the process.

This 34-week program provides students with intensive training emphasizing sterile processing standards and regulations, each phase of sterile processing, principles of aseptic and universal precaution techniques, sterile storage considerations and guidelines, compliance and handling records, and clinical experience.  Students in the Sterile Processing Technician program learn from professional instructors and receive real-world on-the-job experience through Externship.

Sterile Processing Technician Program Courses Include:

  • Basic Sciences for CST
  • Infection Prevention & Decontamination
  • Surgical Instrumentation
  • Sterialization Methods & Procedures
  • Quality Assurance
  • Inventory Management & Communications
  • Clinical Externship

Sterile Processing Technician Program Overview

  • Total Weeks in program: 34 weeks
  • Semester Credit Hours: 26
  • Total Clock Hours: 686
    • Classroom Hours: 200
    • Lab Hours: 230
    • Clinical Externship Hours: 256
  • Teacher/Student ratio
    • Class Lecture: 1/35
    • Class Lab: 1/25

Graduates receive a Sterile Processing Technician certificate upon successful completion of the program.

Click to view the Sterile Tech Program Flyer

FAQs about Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician Program

What Does a Sterile Processing Technician Do?

A sterile processing technician cleans, sterilizes, and prepares surgical instruments and medical equipment for use. They ensure all tools are safe and infection-free, maintaining strict sterilization standards. Their work supports patient safety and the efficiency of surgical and medical procedures across healthcare facilities.

How Long is Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician Program?

Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician program can be completed in as few as 34 weeks!

Is Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician Program Online or In-Person?

Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician program is offered in a hybrid-online format. Students learn classroom theory online, while completing hands-on training in on-campus labs. All students also gain valuable experience through an externship.

What Types of Jobs Can I Find After Completing Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician program?

Many of Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician graduates go to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, labs, and other medical facilities. Our Career Services department provides every student with a wide range of career support services and comprehensive job placement assistance.

How Does Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician Program Prepare Me For A Job?

In Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician program, you’ll gain real-world skills to sterilize, clean, process, assemble, store, and distribute medical equipment and reusable surgical instrumentation, utilizing infection control and safety practices during all phases of the process. Our hands-on training prepares you for the tasks employers are hiring for, so you can step confidently into your healthcare career. Our Career Services department also provides every student with a wide range of support services and job placement assistance.

What Will I Get When I Complete Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician Program?

Graduates of Central Coast College’s Sterile Processing Technician program receive a Certificate of Completion and will be prepared to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician exam through HSPA.

What Do I Need to Enroll in the Sterile Processing Technician Program at Central Coast College?

To enroll, you’ll need a high school diploma or a GED. Don’t have your diploma yet? No problem – Central Coast College offers two high school completion programs to help you get started. Submit an interest form, visit our campus, or call 831-424-6767 to get in contact with our admissions team.