College and Program Learning Objectives

The goal of the Sterile Processing Technician program is to prepare competent entry-level sterile processing technicians with the knowledge and skills required to work in a central supply/sterile processing department of a healthcare facility.

Objectives 1 through 6 shown below are the College Learning Objectives. The remaining objectives are the Program Learning Objectives.

1. Reading and Written Communication: Students will demonstrate competency in reading and writing.
2. Oral Communication: Students will demonstrate effective oral communication skills that incorporate emotional intelligence, empathy, and civility. 
3. Critical Analysis and Reasoning: Students will apply critical thinking and the knowledge gained in their degree program for better decision-making informed by:
   • Ethical reasoning
   • Quantitative reasoning
   • Scientific reasoning
4. Knowledge and Skills for Participation in a Diverse Society: Students will respect multiple perspectives and cultural contexts when making decisions independently or as part of a team.
5. Information and AI Literacy: Students will be able to locate, evaluate, and ethically utilize reliable information and artificial intelligence tools. They will develop an understanding of how AI systems function, recognize their limitations and biases, and apply them responsibly to support informed decision-making, problem-solving, and knowledge creation.
6. Integration of Learning: Students will develop the ability to make connections between different academic studies, emerging technologies such as AI, and specialized professional skills leading to more informed, creative, and productive decisions in life and career.
7. Develop a solid foundation in the basic sciences and a mastery of decontamination and sterilization processes.
8. Understand and demonstrate the ethical, legal, and professional principles of the healthcare profession and the scope of their practice as a patient advocate.
9. Acquire the knowledge and skills required for pursuing professional certification, such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician Exam, administered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
10. Acquire the skills needed to enter the workforce as qualified and technically skilled healthcare professionals in the ever-changing healthcare environment.
11. Develop the skills needed to prepare and assemble instruments for distribution and to process supplies and equipment from operating rooms and nursing units throughout the healthcare facility.
12. Ability to implement HIPAA, OSHA, Standard Precautions, and other infection control measures in the healthcare setting.
13. Develop communication skills needed to effectively interact with patients, families, and members of a healthcare team in a therapeutic and professional manner
14. Acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for career advancement.