Step Into a Critical Healthcare Role: Become a Sterile Processing Technician with Kennesaw State University
Behind every successful surgery is a team of professionals committed to patient safety—and sterile processing technicians play a vital role in that mission. As healthcare systems continue to expand and surgical volumes increase, the demand for skilled sterile processing professionals remains strong nationwide. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034, with about 1.9 million job openings each year driven by growth and workforce turnover.
Through Kennesaw State University’s Community and Professional Education, you can prepare for this in-demand healthcare career with the online Sterile Processing Technician (Voucher Included) program, designed to equip you with industry-relevant skills and certification preparation.
Why Sterile Processing Technicians Are in Demand
Sterile processing technicians (SPT) are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments used in healthcare settings. Their work is essential to patient safety, infection prevention, and smooth surgical operations.
According to the BLS, employment for medical equipment preparers (the occupational category that includes sterile processing technicians) is projected to grow through the coming decade, with thousands of openings each year driven by an aging population and increased demand for surgical procedures.
Additionally, the BLS reports that medical equipment preparers earn a mean annual salary of approximately $47,410, with experienced professionals earning more than $60,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
What You Will Gain from KSU’s Program
KSU’s Sterile Processing Technician (Voucher Included) course is offered fully online and designed to fit the needs of adult learners seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality. With all course materials and exam costs included, you are set up for success from day one of your program.
Program highlights include:
- Learn the sterile processor role, responsibilities, and professional skill set required in the central processing and surgical services departments
- Identify sterile processing regulations and standards provided by regulatory agencies to ensure workplace safety and infection prevention
- Discuss basic procedures and best practices for each phase of sterile processing, including decontamination, inspection, preparation, and sterilization of medical instruments and supplies
- Review sterile storage considerations, guidelines, concerns, and common quality assurance procedures in the sterile processing department
- Understand the importance of effective communication, human relations, and personal development and how improving these skills can advance your career
- Prepare for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam
- Exam voucher included to support your certification journey
- Self-paced format with up to 12 months of access, allowing you to learn on your schedule
- Acquire a certification of completion from KSU
This program prepares you for roles in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, dental offices, and other healthcare environments, helping them enter the workforce with confidence.
A Smart Career Move for Georgia and Beyond
Healthcare employers across the U.S.—including Georgia—continue to seek qualified sterile processing professionals to support safe, compliant patient care. According to Lightcast labor insights, employment for related roles in Georgia is projected to grow 9.6% from 2026 to 2034, outpacing the national average. Hospitals and surgical centers rely on skilled, certified technicians to maintain sterile environments, meet regulatory standards, and protect patient outcomes.
By training with KSU, you will benefit from learning through a respected public research institution while gaining practical, job-ready skills for a growing healthcare field.
Start Your Healthcare Career Today
If you are ready to pursue a career that supports patient safety and plays a critical role in modern healthcare, KSU’s online sterile processing technician program offers a clear and accessible path forward. Take the next step toward a meaningful role in healthcare—learn more and enroll today.
