Central Processing Technology (CPT) Certificate

Central Processing Technology students attend a lecture and laboratory session on campus one night a week for six weeks (fall and spring semesters)/four weeks (summer session) before beginning their clinical rotation at a healthcare facility.  The clinical rotation will be at least three sessions per week, either days or evenings.   Through this 200-hour practicum, students will become familiar with the central services of a hospital. Students continue to attend laboratory sessions for the duration of the semester for hands-on skills practice in a safe, supportive environment. This program is offered in the fall and spring semesters and in the 10-week summer session.

Successful graduates of this program will be able to: 

1. Communicate and advocate for patient safety as a member of a multi-disciplinary team. 

2. Provide and implement quality assurance monitors.

3. Apply federal and regulatory agency recommendations within the central services environment.

4. Demonstrate accountability for preparation and delivery of medical instruments within the surgical suite environment.

5. Adhere to infection control requirements, with emphasis on microbiological principles and ethical practices. 

6. Maintain a professional demeanor by remaining calm and focused in a stressful environment and demanding field.

This program is designed to prepare graduates to sit for the national certification exam from the HSPA (Healthcare Sterile Processing Association). Employment opportunities are expected to grow at a rate of 9% through 2032 according to the U.S. Department of Labor. CRSTs may work in a number of different medical settings, including general hospitals, public health clinics, private doctors’ offices, and specialized surgical centers.

CPT students are required to submit health and immunization records in accordance with Massachusetts law and the College's clinical affiliation agencies. Students must also clear the CORI and SORI criminal history checks in order to be eligible for clinical placement.

The CPT program consists of instruction in the basic sciences, medical terminology, instrumentation, sterilization, decontamination, disinfection, materials management and infection control. Throughout the program, there will be a weekly evening lecture and laboratory. The lab will be on campus, hands-on practice sessions to develop the skills and techniques required in performing various activities competently and safely in the central services areas. Through this practicum experience, you will become familiar with the central services of a hospital. The clinical practice is 200 hours and will be coordinated by the instructor at the college. It will take place in a hospital or ambulatory surgical setting throughout the greater Boston metropolitan area.  New students are accepted into the program on a rolling admission basis.

Provisional Certification is attained when applicants choose to take the CRCST exam before they have completed their 400 hours of hands-on experience. It is NOT an exemption from the hands-on experience requirement. Whenever possible, applicants should complete their hands-on requirement before taking their CRCST exam. Doing so eliminates the risk of having to retake the exam if the hours requirement cannot be completed on time. Additionally, the experience is often very beneficial in helping applicants to better understand the key concepts and skills needed to excel in Central Service and on the certification exam. Individuals who attain provisional certification have six months in which to complete and submit documentation of their hands-on experience. If the experience is not completed and documented within the allotted six month period, the certification will be revoked and the individual will need to retest in order to regain certification. Applicants who attain provisional certification have 6 months to complete their hands-on experience component and submit proof of that to IAHCSMM Headquarters. If that is not completed in 6 months, the certification will be revoked and the person will need to retake the certification exam.

If you have any questions, please attend an upcoming health program information session. Check out the Info Session schedule. Or, contact Admissions at 508-279-4059 or admissions@massbay.edu.