How To Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Ohio 2025

<p>Sterile processing technician training offers a fast and practical path into healthcare without spending years in school. If you're looking to <a href="https://learn.org/articles/how_to_become_a_sterile_processing_technician.html">become a sterile processing technician</a>, you're in luck&mdash;there are multiple in-state and online programs to choose from in Ohio, plus flexible certification options. Whether you're aiming for full-time work in a hospital or considering a traveling sterile processing technician role, this article breaks down everything you need to know. </p> <h2 id="section---WhatIsASterileProcessingTechnician">What Is a Sterile Processing Technician?</h2> <p><a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_Does_a_Sterile_Processing_Technician_Do.html">Sterile processing technicians</a> play a critical role in hospitals and surgical centers by cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing instruments for procedures. They don't work directly with patients, but their work behind the scenes helps keep surgeries safe and infection-free. You'll find sterile processing technicians in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and surgical centers, and in many cases, certification is either required or strongly preferred by employers. </p> <h2 id="section---HowLongDoesItTakeToBecomeASterileProcessingTechnician">How Long Does It Take To Become a Sterile Processing Technician?</h2> <p>You can become a sterile processing technician in as little as four to nine months, depending on the program you choose. Some <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Online_Sterile_Processing_Technician_Certification_FAQs.html">online sterile processing certification</a> programs are self-paced, while in-person certificates at community colleges may follow a traditional semester schedule. If you plan to sit for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) exams, you'll also need to complete 400 hours of hands-on experience either during your training or shortly after. </p> <h2 id="section---5StepsToBecomeASterileProcessingTechnicianInOhio">5 Steps To Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Ohio</h2> <p>Most sterile processing techs follow a similar path into the field. Here's how to get started in Ohio. </p> <h3 id="section---Step1MeetTheBasicRequirements">Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements</h3> <p>To begin sterile processing technician training in Ohio, you'll need a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may also require proof of up-to-date immunizations, a background check, or drug screening before starting clinical training. If you're interested in working in hospitals, these checks are usually part of the onboarding process. </p> <h3 id="section---Step2EnrollInATrainingProgram">Step 2: Enroll in a Training Program</h3> <p>Training programs are available both online and in person. They typically cover microbiology, infection control, decontamination procedures, and surgical instrument handling. Whether you study online or on campus, look for a program that prepares you for certification. Ohio has several certificate options offered through colleges and technical schools, plus fully online choices. </p> <h3 id="section---Step3CompleteHandsOnExperience">Step 3: Complete Hands-On Experience</h3> <p>To earn your CRCST certification through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), you're required to complete 400 hours of hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. This experience can be gained during your training program or within six months after passing the certification exam. Many schools help students meet this requirement by offering clinical rotations or externships as part of the curriculum, giving you a chance to apply what you've learned in a real-world environment. </p> <h3 id="section---Step4TakeACertificationExam">Step 4: Take a Certification Exam</h3> <p>While Ohio does not legally require sterile processing technicians to be certified, most employers expect or prefer candidates who hold a recognized credential. The two primary options are the CRCST offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) and the CSPDT offered by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Both certifications require passing a written exam. </p> <p>To qualify for CRCST, you must also complete 400 hours of hands-on experience. For <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_the_Requirements_for_Certification_as_a_Sterile_Processing_Technician.html">CSPDT certification requirements</a>, you'll need to provide documentation of either formal education in sterile processing or at least 12 months of full-time, paid experience in the field. These certifications show employers that you understand infection control, decontamination procedures, and surgical instrumentation&mdash;skills that are critical in any medical setting.. </p> <h3 id="section---Step5StartWorkingAndMaintainYourCertification">Step 5: Start Working and Maintain Your Certification</h3> <p>Once you're certified, you can apply for jobs in hospitals and surgery centers or even pursue a career as a traveling sterile processing technician. Certifications need to be renewed annually, which may involve continuing education units or re-testing. </p> <h2 id="section---SterileProcessingTechnicianTrainingInOhio">Sterile Processing Technician Training in Ohio</h2> <p>If you're ready to start training, there are several programs in Ohio that can help you get certified and into the workforce quickly. </p> <h3 id="section---1.CuyahogaCommunityCollege">1. Cuyahoga Community College</h3> <p>Cuyahoga Community College offers a Sterile Processing and Distribution Certificate of Proficiency that prepares students for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, covering topics like microbiology, surgical instrument handling, infection control, and sterilization techniques. </p> <p>Designed to be completed in one semester, this certificate is part of the college's accredited health careers department. It's a solid option for students seeking quick entry into the healthcare field. The total cost is approximately $4,800 for in-district students, which covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies. </p> <h3 id="section---2.ColumbusStateCommunityCollege">2. Columbus State Community College</h3> <p>Columbus State Community College offers a sterile processing technology certificate that covers essential topics such as surgical instrumentation, infection prevention, and sterilization methods. Tuition for Ohio residents is $182.93 per credit hour, which includes instructional and general fees. Additional costs may apply for online courses ($10 per credit hour) and technology and facilities fees, which vary based on credit load. Financial aid and flexible payment options are available to qualifying students. </p> <h3 id="section---3.ChoffinCareerAndTechnicalCenter">3. Choffin Career and Technical Center</h3> <p>If you're looking for an affordable way to break into healthcare, Choffin Career and Technical Center's central service technician program is worth a look. It's designed to get you ready for work in hospitals, surgical centers, and even dental offices. </p> <p>The program includes 400 hours of classroom and clinical training, so you'll be well-prepared to sit for the CRCST exam. It runs about six to nine months and costs around $2,900, making it one of the cheaper options in Ohio. </p> <h3 id="section---4.U.S.CareerInstitute">4. U.S. Career Institute</h3> <p>U.S. Career Institute offers a self-paced, fully online sterile processing technician program that's accessible to students in Ohio and nationwide. It's a flexible option if you're juggling work, family, or other commitments since you can complete the coursework on your own schedule. The program includes all the materials you'll need to get ready for certification exams like the CRCST or CSPDT. Total costs range from $979 to $1,279, which means it's even more affordable than other in-state options. </p> <h3 id="section---5.HerzingUniversity">5. Herzing University</h3> <p>Herzing University offers a fully online sterile processing diploma that covers key topics like infection control, instrument sterilization, microbiology, and healthcare ethics. The program is designed to prepare you for entry-level jobs and certification exams in the field. It takes about 12 months to complete and costs around $12,360. For eligible students, financial aid may help reduce out-of-pocket expenses, making this a flexible and practical option for starting a healthcare career. </p> <h2 id="section---FAQsAboutBecomingASterileProcessingTechInOhio">FAQs About Becoming a Sterile Processing Tech in Ohio</h2> <p>Many people exploring this career want more details about training, certification, and salary. Below are helpful answers to common topics related to this growing field. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatIsASterileProcessingTechnicianSSalaryInOhio">What Is a Sterile Processing Technician's Salary in Ohio?</h3> <p>According to the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes319093.htm">Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>, sterile processing technicians in Ohio earn an average salary of $42,340 per year. That breaks down to about $20.36 per hour. Keep in mind that wages may be higher for those with experience and certification or those who take on travel assignments. </p> <h3 id="section---IsCertificationRequiredInOhio">Is Certification Required in Ohio?</h3> <p>No, certification is not required by Ohio state law. However, most employers expect you to hold a credential like the CRCST or CSPDT. Certification improves your job prospects and may lead to higher pay. </p> <h3 id="section---CanIWorkWithoutClinicalExperience">Can I Work Without Clinical Experience?</h3> <p>You can start training without clinical experience, but you'll need 400 hours of hands-on experience to earn CRCST certification. Some programs include clinical hours, while others expect you to complete this requirement after graduation. </p> <h3 id="section---AreOnlineTrainingProgramsLegit">Are Online Training Programs Legit?</h3> <p>Yes, many online training options, like U.S. Career Institute or Herzing University, are reputable and prepare you for certification. However, you'll still need to complete hands-on hours in a real medical setting before getting certified. </p> <h3 id="section---CanIBeATravelingSterileProcessingTechnician">Can I Be a Traveling Sterile Processing Technician?</h3> <p>Yes, if you have certification and some experience, you can work short-term contracts as a traveling sterile processing technician. These roles often pay more and include housing stipends, making them attractive for flexible or adventurous professionals. </p> <h2 id="section---ExploreHealthcareDegrees">Explore Healthcare Degrees</h2> <p>If you're ready to move forward, sterile processing technician training could be your first step into the healthcare field. Browse degree and certification programs featured here on Learn.org and start your path toward a rewarding career as a sterile processing technician today.</p>