Sterile Processing

The Anoka Technical College Sterile Processing certificate is a 28-credit program that prepares graduates to work in medical facilities that prepare surgical instruments, supplies and equipment necessary for healthcare. This program includes a broad introduction to health sciences, as well as medical language, communication and computers.

Students study the following:

Decontamination
Preparation
Packaging
Sterilization
Sterile Storage

The Sterile Processing certificate is a prerequisite to the Surgical Technology Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree.

Course Prerequisites

*BIOL 1106 Principles of Biology is a Prerequisite course for BIOL 2100 A & P 1. A grade of 80% or better is required.

**BIOL 1106 Principles of Biology requires a Reading score of 78 or higher on the Accuplacer, appropriate test scores or completion of READ 0900 or READ0960.

Some courses may require appropriate test score or completion of basic math, basic English and/or reading courses with a "C" or better.

Program Learning Outcomes

By completing this program, students will achieve the following learning outcomes.

Prepared for entry-level employment in a sterile processing position.
Eligible to take the certification examination following 400 hours of professional employment.
Eligible to apply to the AAS Surgical Technology Program

Program Sequence

FULL-TIME Sequence
BIOL 1106 Principles of Biology is a Prerequisite course for BIOL 2100 A & P 1. A grade of 80% or better is required. *BIOL 1106 Principles of Biology requires a Reading score of 78 or higher on the Accuplacer, appropriate test scores or completion of READ 0900.
FIRST YEAR
First Semester
Course Number	Course Title	Credits
BIOL 1106	Principles of Biolog	4

TOTAL		4

Second Semester
BIOL 2100	Anatomy & Physiology I	4
COMP 1002	Computer Technologies for Communication	2
HLTH 1040	Medical Terminology	2
PSYC 1406	General Psychology	4
OR
PSYC 1506	Lifespan Development	4
OR
PSYC 1606	Abnormal Psychology	4

TOTAL		12

Third Semester
SPCH 1120	Public Speaking	3
OR
SPCH 1200	Interpersonal Communication	3
OR
SPCH 1500	Intercultural Communication	3
BIOL 2200	Anatomy & Physiology II	4
SURG 1003	Sterile Processing	3
SURG 1005	Surgical Microbiology	2

TOTAL		12

Graduation Requirements

Successful completion of the Sterile Processing certificate with a grade of B or higher in all required Biology courses and a grade of C or higher in the remaining required courses.

Transfer Opportunities

To see how this may transfer into other Anoka Technical College programs or into another college, please visit:

Industry Information

The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced. The work is challenging, highly technical, and complex. The performance of this vital department has a major impact on the smooth operation of the many departments to which it provides products and services. Employment opportunities may be within hospitals, outpatient centers, and instrument processing centers.

Rita Schutz
763-576-4123

Enrollment Services
763-576-7710