*This program is not eligible for Federal Financial Aid.  See the Financial Aid Office for details.

Program Description

This program teaches students to prepare instruments/packages for processing, decontamination, ultrasonic cleaner disinfection, sterilization and distribution. Students must be accepted into the Associate Degree in Surgical Technology Program to qualify for this certificate. 

The Department of Surgical Technology has designed a Sterile Processing Technology curriculum that is educationally flexible and provides career mobility. Graduates are prepared to practice safely within their role and to promote, protect and improve the health of the diverse community. The faculty is committed to competency-based education and supports the philosophy and mission of the college to prepare graduates who are adaptable to change and ready to face the challenges of the health care workplaces of the future. 

Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Sterile Processing Technology Program to actively develop and maintain collaborative partnerships with its diverse health care community and meet rapidly changing employment needs.

Entrance Requirements

High school diploma or GED; Acceptance into the Surgical Technology Program 

See “Program Requirements” Section for additional requirements.

Type of Program

Day

Employment Opportunities

Sterile processing departments, hospitals, surgical centers, obstetrical care offices, veterinarians’ offices, physician’s offices and dentists’ offices

Professional Credentials

Certified Registered Central Sterile Technician (subject to passing the exam)

• Students who successfully complete the program and complete 400 hands-on hours in the sterile processing department with documentation are eligible to sit for the Certified Sterile Technician Certification Exam, and upon passing would become certified registered central sterile technicians (CRCST).

 
Visit our web page at https://www.gvltec.edu/surgtech/.

In order to be eligible for seating into the program, students must be accepted in the Surgical Technology Program.

Requirements for Completion

• The student must achieve a final average of 78% to complete the course.

Listed below is the ideal grouping of courses in order by semester. This plan assumes a full-time schedule. Note, however, that many variables can affect this plan, and not every course is offered every semester. Please see your advisor to map out your own personalized progression toward graduation.

Course List

Course	Title	Hours
SUR 101	Introduction to Surgical Technology	5
SUR 102	Applied Surgical Techniques	5
SUR 123	Sterile Processing	3
Total Required Credit Hours		13