Individuals in North Dakota can complete the process to become sterile processing technicians in just a few months. This accelerated entry path, along with other professional benefits such as continuing education, competitive salaries, and career advancement, is driving the field’s growing popularity in the state and nationwide.
Anyone interested in pursuing this career path can do so by following the guide below. They will be introduced to the preparatory steps for optimal outcomes, the best training arrangements and institutions, and key certification and licensing requirements.
They will also understand what to expect in annual returns and how to optimize them.
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in North Dakota
The following steps are required to start a career as a sterile processing technician in North Dakota.
Meeting Admission Requirements
Some of the very best training programs for prospective sterile processing technicians in North Dakota expect candidates to complete a criminal background check and provide proof of vaccination. Many also insist on admitting only candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent.
Completing a Program
Either a Central Processing or Sterile Processing program is suitable to become a sterile processing technician in North Dakota. Both programs cover key components of the profession, including medical and surgical terminology, infection control, sterile storage, and decontamination.
However, while some programs offer online, self-paced education, others are entirely in person. Some institutions also welcome candidates who prefer to learn part-time.
An upcoming section analyzes some of the top training programs to consider.
Real-World Education
Education as a prospective sterile processing technician doesn’t stop at a technical school. Candidates often complete internships to ensure their technical capabilities translate into real-world environments.
This also gives students as much opportunity as possible to acclimatize.
Job Placement
Certification makes it easier to secure employment as a sterile processing technician in New Mexico and nationwide. The certification process is analyzed in the next section.
Professionals in the field will also be glad to know they can continue by pursuing advanced programs to become surgical technicians, clinical medical assistants, registered nurses, or licensed practical nurses.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
One reason certification is popular among sterile processing technicians in North Dakota is the opportunity to stand out. It proves commitment and validates professional skills.
Those seeking a nationally recognized credential as sterile processing technicians in North Dakota can pursue certification through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association and the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution. Many training programs prepare candidates for certification by either of these organizations.
Those who qualify can register and pass the examination to claim certified status officially. However, they must maintain their credentials by participating in continuing education and adhering to the certification organization’s codes and standards.
Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in North Dakota
Candidates may consider any of the institutions listed below for comprehensive sterile processing technician training in North Dakota.
University of North Dakota
Online, ND Online Only
The University of North Dakota offers a fully online sterile processing technician program comprising 190 hours of coursework that trains students in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, surgical technology, and sterilization procedures. Learners develop a strong technical foundation and build professional competencies, including communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
Tuition
$2,995 - $3,290 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
North Dakota State University
Online, ND Online Only
North Dakota State University offers an online, self-paced sterile processing technician program with the same 190-hour structure and open enrollment. Students begin with an introduction to core responsibilities, then progress to sterilization techniques, low-temperature processing, and tray assembly.
Tuition
$2,995 - $3,290 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in North Dakota by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
A survey of sterile processing technicians in North Dakota identifies the categories candidates fall into based on their annual earnings. It also shows the best places to work based solely on average earnings.
The categories shown include the bottom 10%, the top 10%, and the median earners. Those who have optimized their careers to be among the top 10% make an annual average salary of $75,597; those who are in the bottom 10% make an annual average salary of $22,693; and those who are in the median category make an annual average salary of $41,419, according to Indeed. The median category is the most popular.
According to the survey, the highest averages are in Dickinson ($108,523) and Grand Forks ($60,578). Sterile processing technicians in Fargo earn an average annual salary of $41,419.




