Sterile Processing Technology

Sterile processing technologists play a critical role in healthcare, preventing contamination and keeping patients safe. Earn FRCC's sterile processing technology certificate in one semester to begin your journey.

Our program offers an apprenticeship so you can gain experience while learning. See how FRCC can help jumpstart your new career.

Why Study Sterile Processing Technology at Front Range Community College?

A sterile processing technologist must pay attention to details. Because you will be collecting and sterilizing important equipment used to treat patients, being meticulous matters.

At FRCC, we'll help you learn the principles and techniques to be an excellent technician. We offer paid apprenticeships with Centura Health and UCHealth so you can get hands-on training from day one. You'll work at one of their locations during the week, and take your classes on the weekend.

Your apprenticeship may also cover some of your tuition and other costs. Apprentices in FRCC’s programs also often receive:

  • Financial assistance for books and exam fees
  • Transportation scholarships
  • Childcare reimbursement
  • Supplies needed for on-the-job learning

You'll be well-prepared to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam through the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).

Certificate Details

Sterile Processing Technology

Program Location: Westminster

Total Credits: 18 credits (1 semester)

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

As part of the program, you will complete an apprenticeship. We partner with Centura Health and UCHealth to get you on-the-job experience.

You will be prepared to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician exam through the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management.

View Program Details

Careers & 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 a 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 it meets the certification criteria for Colorado. The degree/certificate may count toward licensing or certification in states other than Colorado. If you are planning to seek work outside of Colorado, it is strongly recommended that you contact that State's certifying or licensing entity for guidance before you begin this program. Information on the national exam and state requirements is available on the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM) site.

This program meets the applicable state prerequisites for licensure or certification in Colorado as listed below:

FRCC has not determined if the Sterile Processing Program (SPI) Program meets applicable state prerequisites for licensure or certification in states other than Colorado. These states include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming and U.S. Territories: American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.