STERILE PROCESSING TECHNICIAN
PROGRAM FAQS

Will I receive a Certificate of Completion from an accredited university?

When you complete the program, you'll earn a Certificate of Completion from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. The Sterile Processing Technician curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current healthcare industry standards, helping you build the sterile processing skills employers value while preparing for the CRCST certification exam.

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 UMSL's Sterile Processing Technician program different?

UMSL 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 instrument sterilization, infection prevention, decontamination, and inventory management skills employers are looking for, prepare for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam administered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), receive career support to help you connect with employers, and earn a Certificate of Completion from the University of Missouri–St. Louis — 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 online lessons, learning resources, quizzes, and other materials needed to complete your program, so there are no required textbooks to purchase.

As you begin the Sterile Processing concentration, you'll also receive a free physical copy of the Sterile Processing Technical Manual, published by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA). This industry-recognized resource serves as a valuable reference throughout your training and as you prepare for the CRCST certification exam. Your copy will be shipped directly to you at the start of your concentration course.

Will this prepare me for the CRCST certification exam — even if I'm new to healthcare?

Yes! UMSL's Sterile Processing Technician program is designed to help you build the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam administered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) — even if you're just starting your healthcare journey.

• Beginner-friendly: No prior experience required
• Career-focused: Learn the decontamination, sterilization, infection prevention, instrumentation, and inventory management skills Sterile Processing Technicians use every day
• Step by step: Build your knowledge and confidence through guided online coursework
• Practice along the way: Reinforce key concepts 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.

Are certification exam vouchers included in the cost of the program?

Yes, your certification exam voucher is included with tuition at no additional cost. That means you won't pay extra for the exam voucher needed to earn your credential — you can focus on completing your training and preparing for certification.

What's the difference between this program and the CRCST certification?

The Sterile Processing Technician program provides the training, while the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) is the national certification credential awarded by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) after you pass the certification exam.

This program is designed to prepare you for the CRCST exam through:

• 100% online, self-paced coursework
• Curriculum aligned with HSPA exam standards
• A Certificate of Completion from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL)
• Interactive learning materials and certification exam preparation
• Career resources and job opportunity assistance for eligible students 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.

Why do I receive provisional CRCST certification instead of full certification?

This is a requirement set by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), not the training program. HSPA requires all CRCST candidates to complete 400 hours of hands-on experience in a sterile processing department. If you pass the exam first, you'll receive provisional certification. After you complete and document your required work experience through an externship or employment, HSPA will upgrade your certification to full CRCST status.

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. While employment cannot be guaranteed, the career support team is available to help you prepare for your job search and connect with potential opportunities.