Sterile Processing Technician

Why Sterile Processing Technician?

Sterile processing technicians play a critical behind-the-scenes role in protecting patient health. In this program, you’ll learn how improper handling of medical instruments can lead to infection and how precise sterilization practices help prevent the spread of disease. You’ll gain an understanding of how sterile processing supports safe, effective care across healthcare environments.

At Mid-State, you’ll receive hands-on training focused on processing, packaging, storing, and distributing medical instruments and equipment used in surgery, emergency care, obstetrics, and other clinical settings. Students benefit from hands-on simulation experiences in the Healthcare Simulation Center that enhance and support their clinical training. The curriculum includes online instruction, lab work, and clinical experiences at multiple sites, preparing you for technical diploma completion and eligibility for certification exams.

Support patient safety by maintaining sterile conditions for medical instruments and supplies.
Apply strict procedures related to asepsis, disinfection, and sterilization.
Develop strong organizational habits to manage inventory and instrument flow.
Communicate effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Train through a combination of online learning, labs, and clinical placements.
Qualify for certification exams upon successful program completion.

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Program Facts

Total Credits

5 Credits

Degree Type

Technical Degree

Program Length

Less Than One Year

Delivery Method

In Person

Location

Marshfield

Start Dates

Spring

Estimated Program Cost

$1,077.85

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Not Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Central Processing Technician

Central Services Technician

Instrument Specialist

Processing and Distribution Technician

Sterile Processing Technician

$66k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $65,874. Source: Lightcast Data Set

112

Average Monthly Hires

112 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See below for full course details, see the program information guide, or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Instructors

Meet our full-time instructors.

Nancy Dupee, AAS
Nancy earned her associate in applied science from Mid-State Technical College and is a Certified Surgical Technologist and Certified First Assistant. Her experience includes over 16 years as a clinical coordinator and assisting in lab preparation in the Surgical Technologist program at Mid-State.

“Being a teacher has many rewards, especially the pride I feel when each student has completed the program and walks across the stage to receive their much-deserved diploma.”

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Apply principles of infection control in the role of the sterile processing technician.
Decontaminate instruments and equipment.
Prepare instruments, equipment, and supplies.
Apply sterilization techniques.
Perform inventory control and distribution.
Function as an ethical, legal, and professional member of the health care team.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Additional Resources

Explore the resources and next steps below. Your academic advisor will help you know what to complete and when.

Criminal Background Form

Sterile Processing Technician Program FAQs (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more, as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”

- Bryce C.

Mid-State Grad

“I couldn't have asked for a better education. My instructors were some of the most incredible people, and they were willing to do whatever was necessary to help everyone.”

- Leslie T.

Mid-State Grad

“Mid-State’s hands-on learning, convenient scheduling, updated technology, and instructors who can relate to the field have all helped me become successful and even advance in my career in under a year.”

- Stephanie B.

Mid-State Grad

“I value my experience at Mid-State tremendously. Even with a disability my education gave me the opportunity to join the workforce before I even graduated. Education equals opportunity.”

- Jake A.

Mid-State Grad

“My degree from Mid-State and the encouragement I received from my teachers gave me the skills and confidence to move forward in my life and excel in my career.”

- Sharon R.

Mid-State Grad

“The education I received at Mid-State has been invaluable. It built a foundation that is endlessly improving, providing excellent growth opportunities in my career.”

- Kevin B.

Mid-State Grad