Sterile Processing Technician - FAQ

The sterile processing technician course is one course with 6 credits of lecture and 1 credit of lab. Please be aware that before taking the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) exam, you must also accrue 400 hours of hands-on experience verified by an employer. This course does not fulfill that work hours requirement.

Mt. Hood Community College has several student resources on campus to help students connect with employers and find a job placement both during and after their time at MHCC. Learn more through career planning.

If you're 18 or older, you can start without a high school diploma or GED® certificate. But if you haven't finished high school, you can work on it here while beginning your career. Students under 18 without a diploma should talk with an advisor to get the assistance you need to get started. To be hired as a sterile processing technician, you do need to have a high school diploma or GED®.

To start this program you must have completed RD090 and WR090, with a grade of "C" or better; or completed placement testing that tests you out of these courses. To schedule a placement test, contact testing services.

Yes, this course can only be completed in the winter term. Please plan ahead to apply and take placement tests to be ready for this deadline.

There's no special application for students in the sterile processing technician course, but you must apply to MHCC.