Join the high-growth field of healthcare 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.

Courses

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

Cost

The total program cost for Anne Arundel County residents is $2,050, including tuition and fees. The cost of CRCST exam is not included. There are additional costs for required textbook(s), scrubs and white, closed-toe shoes.

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

Learn more at an upcoming information session.

Requirements

• Interested students must attend a registration session before enrolling in the program. Find and register for an upcoming session.
• Must be at least 18 years or older
• Strong interest in the field
• Willingness to commit to training and employment
• You 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.
• Additional costs include:
  • Scrubs
  • Closed-toe white nurse shoes
  • Textbook(s)
  • Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam fee

Note: High School Diploma/GED® is not required but may be needed for employment.

Credentials

This program prepares individuals to take the exam to become a certified registered central service technician (CRCST) through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association.

How to Register

Students taking noncredit classes don't need to apply for admission to AACC. Just check out our course search, choose a program or course that interests you, register and make your payment. Registration for summer courses is open. Registration for fall 2026 opens July 14! Please check course availability prior to registration.

Learn more about registering.

If you have previously taken classes at AACC, you must log in using your AACC account. New students will be able to create a temporary account in the checkout process.

If you would like help, email the Continuing Education Office or call 410-777-2325.

CALT CLOSURE ALERT

The School of Continuing Education and Workforce Development offices located in CALT 115 will be CLOSED from June 7 through June 27. The Continuing Education registration desk will be temporarily located in the Student Services Center (SSVC), first floor on the main Arnold campus.

Visit our campus map to locate these offices.

MyAACC Email

Upon registering for your course, regularly check your MyAACC account and AACC email for class and general updates from the college. Due to FERPA regulations, all official college communications must be sent to your AACC student email. This includes class cancellation and waitlist notifications. For assistance accessing MyAACC, visit our email instructional page or contact the Technical Service Desk. For Spanish translation, visit our translated webpage.