Join the high-growth field of health care as a central sterile processing technician with training from Anne Arundel Community College. Our experienced and credentialed professional faculty will prepare you for a rewarding career working in a variety of medical settings to ensure the cleanliness and safety of operating rooms, tables and other equipment.

Learn more about upcoming mandatory Central Sterile Processing information sessions.

What courses will I take?

The training consists of one main course:

STP-510 Central Sterile Processing Technician

Total Hours: 84

Additionally, externship options are available. Email the program coordinator at tlvalko@aacc.edu for information.

STP-505 Central Sterile Processing Technician: Externship 1

STP-506 Central Sterile Processing Technician: Externship 2

­STP-507 Central Sterile Processing Technician: Externship 3

STP-508 Central Sterile Processing Technician: Externship 4

What credentials will I earn?

This program will prepare individuals to take the exam to become a certified registered central service technician (CRCST) through the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).

What is the job outlook?

Employment for Medical Equipment Preparers in Maryland is projected to grow 2.3% from 2023 to 2028, rising from 1,636 to 1,674 jobs. The current median salary is $40,000/year.

Source: Lightcast 2023. Q3

What will it cost?

The total program cost for Anne Arundel County residents is $2,196, including tuition and fees.

AACC is offering students in select programs the opportunity to enroll without the financial burden of paying for college. Eligible students can now attend AACC with all tuition and fees paid except for externships through scholarships.

Learn more at an upcoming information session.

What are the requirements?

• Students must attend an information session. Find and register for an upcoming session.
• Must be at least 18
• Must have a high school or GED® diploma
• Must have an eighth-grade reading level competency
• Strong interest in the field
• Willingness to commit to training and employment
• Students must have basic computer knowledge to include searching the web, navigating our learning management system, downloading and uploading documents and different formats, including Word, PDFs and Google Docs.

What are the externship requirements?

• Successful completion of STP-510 Central Sterile Processing Technician
• Must complete an application and be recommended by the CSP class instructor and the workforce success skills instructor
• Background check (included in tuition)
• Immunizations (may require additional student expense)
• Externship requires the student to be available to volunteer for a minimum of two eight-hour shifts during the week at one of our partner facilities.
• Drug screening

How do I enroll?

Interested students must attend a registration session before enrolling in the program.

• Find and register for an upcoming information session.

Related Studies

Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor
Our experienced and credentialed faculty will prepare you for the the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor (C.F.E.R.) exam.

Learn more about our Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor program.