Sterile Processing, Basic Certificate

College(s):

Malcolm X

Program Code: 0269

Program Requirements

Required Program Core
SURG TC 105Sterile Processing Basics7
Required Work-Based Learning Courses
SURG TC 106SP Experiential Learning9
Total Hours16

Pathway

These are example course sequences for students interested in sterile processing. They do not represent a contract, nor do they guarantee course availability. If either pathway is followed as outlined, you will earn a Basic Certificate (BC) in Sterile Processing.

Semester-by-Semester Program Plan for One-Semester Students

Plan of Study Grid
Semester 1Hours
SURG TC 105 Sterile Processing Basics 7
SURG TC 106 SP Experiential Learning 9
 Hours16
 Total Hours16

Choose your courses with your College Advisor.

Semester-by-Semester Program Plan for Two-Semester Students

Plan of Study Grid
Semester 1Hours
SURG TC 105 Sterile Processing Basics 7
 Hours7
Semester 2
SURG TC 106 SP Experiential Learning 9
 Hours9
 Total Hours16

Choose your courses with your College Advisor.

Program Admission Requirements

  • Eligibility for ENGLISH 101 Composition
  • Submit official college transcripts from all accredited colleges attended outside of City Colleges of Chicago.
  • As defined by Illinois State Law (225ILCS46/25): 
    • All healthcare workers and student health care workers are required to undergo a criminal background check in order to work in a clinical setting.  A student with a positive background check containing disqualifying conditions will not be allowed to enter the clinical portion of this program, thus preventing the student from obtaining mandated certification and/or licensure in Sterile Processing. Please contact the Program Director to discuss disqualifiers. The applicant is responsible for the cost of the background clearance. Prior to clinical placement, the student will be required to provide a cleared drug screen at their own cost.        

For more information about admissions requirements and the application process, visit the program website.

Careers

This program can prepare students for the jobs listed below. Click on each one to learn more, including average earnings, annual job openings, and how much education people in that field have. For additional guidance and resources on career options, current City Colleges students and alumni can contact the Career Services Office.

Medical Equipment Preparers

Job Description

Prepare, sterilize, install, or clean laboratory or healthcare equipment. May perform routine laboratory tasks and operate or inspect equipment.

Salary Based on Experience Level

Take a look at the average hourly/annual earnings for this career in Cook County

Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES data from the BLS and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.

Annual Wages

Entry-Level 10th Percentile$34,468
Median 50th Percentile$42,098
Senior-Level 90th Percentile$58,890

Hourly Wages

Entry-Level 10th Percentile$17
Median 50th Percentile$20
Senior-Level 90th Percentile$28

Annual Job Openings

130 annual openings in Cook County

National Education Attainment

Here, you can see the level of education that people in this career complete.

Degree Program% of Jobs
A high school diploma or less43.76%
A certificate31.22%
Some college4.42%
An Associate degree3.52%
A Bachelor's degree15.30%
A Master's or Professional degree1.78%
A Doctoral degree or more0.00%

17.08% continue their education beyond an associate degree