Sterile Processing Technician
Program FAQs
Find answers to common questions about the Sterile Processing Technician program, including enrollment, certification, externships, and more.
Will I receive a Certificate of Completion from an accredited university?
Yes! When you complete the program, you'll earn a Certificate of Completion from the regionally accredited SMU Continuing and Professional Education. The Sterile Processing Technician curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current healthcare industry standards, helping you build the sterilization and infection control skills employers value while preparing for the CRCST.
How long does the Sterile Processing Technician program take to complete?
The Sterile Processing Technician program is 100% self-paced, so you can progress on your own schedule. While completion times vary, many students finish within 3–6 months. You'll have up to 12 months to complete the program.
What makes SMU Continuing and Professional Education's Sterile Processing Technician program different?
SMU Continuing and Professional Education offers a flexible way to prepare for a sterile processing technician career without putting your life on hold. The online Sterile Processing Technician program combines the credibility of a regionally accredited university with the flexibility of self-paced learning. You'll develop the sterilization and infection control skills employers are looking for, prepare for the CRCST exam, get career and externship placement support, and earn a Certificate of Completion from SMU Continuing and Professional Education — all on a timeline that works for you.
Do I need any prior experience in this field to get started?
Our Sterile Processing Technician program is designed for beginners, so you don't need previous healthcare experience to get started. The curriculum is designed to help you develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for your next career opportunity.
What are the requirements for enrolling in the Sterile Processing Technician program?
The Sterile Processing Technician program is designed for beginners and does not require prior healthcare experience. There are no prerequisites or application requirements to enroll. Students should be prepared to complete coursework online and review any program-specific requirements before enrolling.
Are course materials included, or will I need to purchase textbooks or supplies?
All required digital course materials are included with your tuition at no additional cost. You'll have access to the online lessons, learning resources, quizzes, and other materials needed to complete your program and prepare for the certification exam. There are no required textbooks to purchase, so you can get started right away without worrying about unexpected costs.
Will this prepare me for the CRCST certification exam — even if I'm new to healthcare?
Yes! SMU Continuing and Professional Education's Sterile Processing Technician program is designed to help you build the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for the CRCST exam — even if you're just starting your healthcare journey.
- Beginner-friendly: No prior experience required
- Career-focused: Learn the sterilization and infection control skills sterile processing technicians use every day
- Step by step: Build your knowledge and confidence through guided online coursework
- Practice along the way: Reinforce your learning with quizzes, assessments, and hands-on learning opportunities
- Certification preparation: Complete a curriculum designed to prepare you for the CRCST certification exam
Our goal is to help you feel confident, prepared for certification, and ready to begin your career as a sterile processing technician.
What are the virtual simulations, and how do they work?
Virtual simulations are interactive learning experiences that place you in realistic workplace scenarios. Some focus on identifying and handling the correct instruments for a procedure, while others guide you through the steps of a complete procedure from start to finish.
Each simulation is mastery-based and requires a 100% score to complete. You have unlimited attempts, and only your most recent score counts. The goal is to build confidence through practice, not to be perfect on your first try.
Are certification exam vouchers included in the cost of the program?
Yes, your voucher for the CRCST exam is included with tuition at no additional cost.
That means if you pursue the CRCST certification, you won't have to pay extra for the exam needed to earn your credential — you can focus on completing your training and preparing for certification.
If you choose to pursue an additional certification, you’ll be responsible for any associated exam fees. Exam preparation materials are available and provided for the CRCST exam only.
What's the difference between this program and the CRCST certification?
The Sterile Processing Technician program provides the education and training, while the CRCST is a nationally recognized credential awarded after you pass the exam.
This program is designed to prepare you for the CRCST exam through:
- 100% online, self-paced coursework
- Curriculum aligned with industry standards and certification exam objectives
- A Certificate of Completion from SMU Continuing and Professional Education
- Interactive learning materials and certification exam preparation
- Career resources, with eligible students able to receive externship placement support or job opportunity assistance after program completion
The goal is to help you build the knowledge and skills needed to confidently pursue CRCST certification and prepare for an entry-level sterile processing technician career.
Can I complete the Sterile Processing Technician program while working full-time?
Yes! SMU Continuing and Professional Education's Sterile Processing Technician program is built for busy adults. Whether you're working full-time, caring for your family, or balancing other responsibilities, you can complete your coursework on a schedule that works for you.
Because the program is self-paced, you can study when it's most convenient and move through the material at your own pace. While many students complete the program in 3–6 months, you'll have up to 12 months to finish your training. This flexibility makes it easier to prepare for the CRCST exam and a new healthcare career — without putting the rest of your life on hold.
What kind of support is included?
You'll have support throughout your learning journey. From your first lesson to your job search, we're here to help you succeed.
Learner Support: Get help with course content, assignments, and navigating the online learning platform whenever you need it.
Career Support: Receive guidance on resumes, interviews, and job readiness as you prepare to pursue opportunities in healthcare.
Does the Sterile Processing Technician program include career support?
Yes. Eligible students have access to career resources, including resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search support. Students may also be eligible for externship placement support to gain hands-on experience. While employment and externship placement cannot be guaranteed, the career support team is available to help you prepare for the next step in your career.
