The Gwinnett Tech Central Sterile Processing Program provides an opportunity for quick entry into the fast growing career of a Central Processing Technician.  The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts an 11% job growth rate for Central Processing Technicians from 2020 – 2029. 

What can I expect from this program?

Our Central Sterile Processing Program provides preparation for a career in this field with well-rounded core and technical courses.  In this program, you will study techniques, rules and regulations involved in keeping the surgical patient safe and prevent surgical infections. Coursework includes classroom instruction, hands-on guidance in technologically advanced labs, and clinical rotations in area hospitals. You will learn techniques of decontaminating, cleaning, processing, assembling, sterilizing, storing, and distributing the equipment, instruments, and supplies used in surgery and other parts of the hospital.

Interested in learning more about this program? Attend one of our monthly information sessions to talk with faculty and learn more about the program.

What are my program options?

Central Sterile Processing, Certificate

More Info…

Take the first step towards a career in Surgical Technology and apply for next semester! Important dates and deadlines are listed to get you started and if you are looking for ways to pay for your education, explore our scholarships for this program. You can also learn about our faculty and clubs and organizations to join.

Tell me more about this program.

Central Sterile Processing Program currently has an 82% average pass rate since 2018, on the international certification exam, which is well above the international average of 64% pass rate for the same time period. Passing the certification exam earns you either the title of Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT).

Gwinnett Tech’s Central Sterile Processing Program currently offers one Hope Career Grant. HOPE Career Grants provide free tuition assistance toward educational costs for eligible students enrolled in an approved designated program of study. Students must be eligible for and receiving, the HOPE Grant or Zell Miller Grant to be awarded the HOPE Career Grant. It provides assistance with educational costs that are not covered by the HOPE or Zell Miller Grants.

View the Central Processing Technician Certificate Program Fact Sheet for additional information.

How much will it cost?

Gwinnett Tech offers affordability at $107 per credit hour + fees. Great opportunities for scholarships and financial aid with HOPE Grant, HOPE scholarship, HOPE Career Grants and more!

*ST programs must appoint a Credentialed Practicing Surgical Technologist; SA programs must appoint a Credentialed Practicing Surgical Assistant.

**Either the employer, physician or practicing surgical technologist (for surgical technology programs)/practicing surgical assistant (for surgical assisting programs) must be employed by one of the program’s clinical sites.