Sterile Processing Technology
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Sterile processing technicians play a critical role in patient safety by ensuring that surgical instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized and ready for use. In this essential healthcare role, you’ll serve as the first line of defense against infection, protecting patients and supporting surgical teams in hospitals and surgical centers.
Why Study Sterile Processing Technology at Front Range Community College?
At FRCC, you can earn your sterile processing technology certificate in just two semesters to start your journey to a new and rewarding career. This program combines hands-on experience, industry knowledge and real-world critical training to set you up for success. At the end of the program, you’ll be well prepared to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), formerly IAHCSMM.
The Sterile Processing program is a great choice for students balancing work, family and education. We offer two start dates per year (August and January), and first semester classes are scheduled for just two days per week.
FRCC partners with hospitals across northern Colorado, the Denver metro area and Colorado Springs to provide valuable clinical rotation experiences. We do our best to place students in facilities as close to their homes as possible, ensuring a convenient and accessible learning experience in your second semester.
Apprenticeship Opportunities
Every student in the Sterile Processing program is eligible to apply for an apprenticeship during their first semester. Apprentices work directly in a hospital sterile processing department, gaining paid, hands-on experience while completing their coursework.
Apprenticeship positions are competitive and limited, and participating hospitals typically begin recruitment 2–3 months before the semester begins. Employers recruit directly from the cohort of currently enrolled students, so everyone has the opportunity to be considered.
Certificate Details
Sterile Processing Technology
Program Location: Larimer, Westminster
Total Credits: 18 credits (2 semesters)
Learn to clean, sterilize and assemble surgical instruments, equipment and supplies. Study important concepts:
- Sterilization
- Infection control
- Decontamination
- Surgical instrumentation processing
- Storage and inventory management
- Documentation and record maintenance
You'll be prepared to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician exam through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
View Program DetailsSee Admissions RequirementsCareers & Outcomes
The certificate program in sterile processing technology can open doors for a career as a sterile processor.
Professional Licensure Disclosure
Students enrolling or continuing at Front Range Community College (FRCC) have the right to certain information that the college must provide.
As a student applying for or attending the Sterile Processing Technician (SPI) Program, you have the right to know that it meets the certification criteria established by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) — formerly known as the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM) — for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential.
Once students successfully pass the CRCST certification exam through HSPA, their certification is recognized and accepted worldwide. More information about the national certification exam and requirements can be found on the HSPA website.
Graduates who earn the CRCST certification through HSPA are qualified to practice as Sterile Processing Technicians in all other U.S. states and territories, as well as internationally.
A Fulfilling Career
See how Emily Martin changed careers and found a full-time job as a sterile processor with the help of FRCC.