Financial aid (may be available)
$191 to start
$2,200 total
$239 to start
$4,000 total
Financial aid (may be available)
$199 total
$3,199 total
$650 total
No cost info
Anderson University in Indiana offers a specialized vocational school program focused on healthcare certifications, specifically in Sterile Compounding & IV Aseptic. The program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge through a combination of theoretical and practical training. Students gain hands-on experience in a simulated healthcare environment, emphasizing safety protocols and quality standards. The program also emphasizes the importance of communication and teamwork in the healthcare field. With experienced faculty members providing guidance and support, Anderson University prepares students for successful careers in healthcare through a comprehensive and industry-focused curriculum.
$4,000 total
Our Sterile Processing Technician training program is designed with job readiness in mind! Through flexible online classes, you’ll learn the skills that are essential to being successful on the job while also preparing to sit for industry certification.
No cost info
A career as a Sterile Processing Technician represents a path to success in the fast-growing healthcare industry! As the healthcare field continues to grow, so does the need for Sterile Processing Technicians who prepare and provide the clean, sterile, properly functioning instruments used daily in surgeries and medical procedures. Sterile Processing Techs, also known as Central Sterile Processing Technicians, will have consistent job opportunities, they are essential to surgical centers and operating rooms all across the country and around the world. Surgical procedures that treat a vast number of health conditions are more prominent than ever. The increase in procedures has led to an equal increase in demand for the job skills of Sterile Processing Technicians.
$979 total
Our online Sterile Processing Technician Career Diploma can help students prepare for entry-level jobs as sterile processing technicians. Additionally, graduates have the opportunity to become industry certified by sitting for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Certification exam offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
$899 total
The Sterile Compounding & IV Aseptic certification class offered by Americation Career & Training School is an online course that provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to become a certified sterile compounding technician. This class covers topics such as aseptic technique, USP 797 and USP 800, and the proper use of personal protective equipment. Upon completion of this course, students will receive a certification from Americation Career & Training School, located in New Jersey.
$1,200 total
Charlotte, North Carolina, is home to a booming healthcare industry—and Sterile Processing Technicians (SPTs) are in high demand. If you're looking to step into a critical behind-the-scenes role in healthcare, becoming a Sterile Processing Technician might be the path for you. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about becoming an SPT in Charlotte, including requirements, schools, certification, and job outlook.
A Sterile Processing Technician cleans, decontaminates, sterilizes, and prepares surgical instruments and equipment.
In Charlotte, training programs cost around $1,100–$1,500.
Most SPT programs take about 4–6 months to complete.
Certification is often required or preferred by employers (e.g., CRCST).
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2024, the average salary for Medical Equipment Preparers, which includes SPTs in North Carolina, is $44,160 per year!
Sterile Processing Technicians (SPTs), also known as Central Service Technicians, are essential to surgical teams. They ensure that all surgical tools and medical equipment are cleaned, sterilized, and ready for use. Their attention to detail and adherence to sterilization protocols help prevent infection and protect patient safety.
Common duties include:
Decontaminating surgical instruments and trays
Operating sterilization machines (autoclaves)
Assembling and packaging tools for procedures
Maintaining sterile storage areas
Tracking surgical equipment inventory
To become a Sterile Processing Technician in Charlotte, there are certain requirements you must meet:
You must be at least 18 years old by the time you start your clinical hours.
A high school diploma or equivalent is required to enroll in the training program.
Pass a background check and provide immunization records
Complete a state-approved training program
Pass a certification exam (commonly the CRCST by HSPA)
You must be eligible to take ENG 111, ensuring you have the necessary language skills for the program.
Provide a valid state-issued picture ID as part of your application process.
The quickest path to becoming an SPT in Charlotte is by enrolling in a certificate program that lasts about 4 to 6 months. These accelerated programs include both classroom and clinical instruction, prepping you for certification and job readiness.
There are several Sterile Processing Technician classes available in the Charlotte area, each offering a unique set of features and benefits. Here are some of them:
Length: ~6 months
Cost: Around $1,200
Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, COVID-19 vaccination
Overview: Offers a Central Sterile Processing continuing education course with hands-on labs and prep for the CRCST exam. Instruction is led by industry professionals.
Length: ~6 months
Cost: Around $1,100
Requirements: High school diploma or GED, health clearance, background check
Overview: Offers a well-rounded Central Sterile Processing program with classroom instruction, clinical rotations, and exam prep. Flexible evening/weekend classes are available.
Length: Varies by program
Cost: Varies
Requirements: High school diploma or GED
Overview: While RCCC doesn’t offer a direct SPT program, their Nurse Aide and Phlebotomy courses can provide a helpful foundation for transitioning into sterile processing.
If flexibility is key, consider online training programs. Schools like Penn Foster, MedCerts, and Ashworth College offer fully online SPT training. These allow you to complete coursework at your own pace, with externships arranged at local facilities for hands-on practice.
While free SPT programs are rare, you may find low-cost training through:
Workforce development programs (check Charlotte Works)
Hospital-sponsored training with employment contracts
Scholarships or financial aid at community colleges
Tip: Reach out to the financial aid office at each school for potential payment plans or grants.
Most employers in Charlotte prefer or require the CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) certification. Here’s how to earn it:
Complete a state-approved training program
Accumulate 400 hours of hands-on experience (some programs include this)
Pass the CRCST exam administered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA)
Certification must be renewed annually with continuing education credits.
In Charlotte, SPTs work in a range of medical settings, including:
Hospitals (e.g., Atrium Health, Novant Health)
Ambulatory surgical centers
Dental surgical clinics
Medical equipment processing companies
Expect to work in sterilization areas, operating room supply rooms, and sometimes evenings or weekends depending on facility needs.
Certification isn't legally required, but most employers in Charlotte prefer or require it—especially the CRCST credential.
Yes. Entry-level programs train you from scratch and often include clinical hours for experience.
Yes. With growing surgical demands and steady job openings in major hospitals, it’s a strong healthcare career with upward mobility.
According to the U.S. BLS 2024 data, SPTs in North Carolina earn around $38,920 annually, with top earners making over $47,000.
Becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in Charlotte offers a rewarding career path with growing demand in the healthcare industry. Whether you opt for a traditional classroom-based program, online training, or free on-the-job experience, numerous sterile processing technician training options are available to start your journey. With the right certification, you can secure a well-paying job, with the sterile processing technician salary in Charlotte averaging between $35,000 to $40,000 annually, and play a vital role in ensuring the safety of healthcare providers and patients.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Sterile Processing Technician training programs in Charlotte now and start a rewarding career today!
Interested in exploring other healthcare careers? Check out our in-depth guides:
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