Get answers before you enroll.
Charisma SPD’s CRCST Training FAQ answers common questions about tuition, certification, clinical hours, class schedules, payment options, enrollment requirements, and career support. Use these answers to understand what the program includes, how the certification pathway works, and what to expect before enrolling in sterile processing training.
Is CRCST certification issued by Charisma SPD?
No. Charisma SPD provides education, exam preparation, and support through the certification pathway. CRCST certification is awarded independently by HSPA after all applicable requirements are met.
What is included in the $2,500 tuition?
The program includes structured classroom instruction, books and learning materials, quizzes and assessments, exam preparation, clinical internship support, and career-readiness guidance. Optional or third-party costs such as scrubs, medical clearance, background screening, or certification examination fees may be separate unless your enrollment agreement states otherwise.
Is the HSPA certification exam fee included in tuition?
The HSPA examination fee is separate unless your current enrollment agreement specifically states that it is included. Students should confirm the current HSPA exam-registration cost before scheduling the certification exam.
Do I have to pay the full tuition before I start?
No. Payment options may be available. Charisma SPD currently offers an internal payment plan, and approved third-party financing may also be available. The program balance must be paid according to the enrollment agreement, and full payment may be required before final program completion or clinical participation.
What happens after I submit my application?
After your application is received, the Charisma SPD team will guide you through enrollment, session selection, payment arrangements, required documents, and preparation for class. Review all enrollment terms before making a payment.
Can I take the program while working full-time?
Yes. Weekend and weekday class options are offered so students can choose the schedule that best fits employment and family obligations. Clinical availability should also be considered because clinical hours are completed separately from regular class time.
Can I complete clinical hours in the evenings or on weekends?
Evening clinical schedules may be available at some participating facilities depending on department operations and capacity. Weekend clinical placement is not guaranteed. The exact site, shift, and start date depend on eligibility, required clearances, facility availability, and department approval.
Does the program include support for the 400 clinical hours?
Yes. The program includes support toward completing the 400-hour hands-on experience requirement. Placement is not automatic on a specific date or at a specific hospital. Students must meet all required eligibility, payment, medical, background, and facility requirements before placement.
Can I begin clinical experience before classroom training is finished?
In some cases, eligible students may begin clinical experience while coursework is still in progress. This depends on payment status, required clearances, clinical-site availability, and approval by the participating department.
What medical or background requirements are needed for clinical placement?
Requirements vary by facility, but students should expect items such as medical clearance, immunization records, health screening, background checks, orientation documents, and other hospital-specific requirements. Third-party costs associated with these requirements may be the student’s responsibility.
What if I miss a class or fall behind on assignments?
Students are expected to remain current with coursework, quizzes, assignments, and attendance requirements. If you miss class or fall behind, contact the program promptly to understand available make-up, review, or completion options. Repeated absences or incomplete requirements may delay completion.
Is job placement guaranteed after I finish the program?
No. Charisma SPD may provide resume support, interview preparation, job-search guidance, and information about available opportunities, but employment, certification, salary, and a specific employer placement cannot be guaranteed.
Can I work as a sterile processing technician before I complete the 400 hours?
Employment eligibility depends on the employer, applicable requirements, and the student’s certification status. Some employers may consider provisional or entry-level candidates, while others require full certification. Review each employer’s requirements before applying.
What is the refund or cancellation policy if I change my mind?
Refund eligibility depends on when and how you cancel, the services already provided, and the terms in your enrollment agreement and current Refund & Cancellation Policy. Review those terms carefully before payment and follow the required written cancellation procedure if you withdraw.
Can returning students still access their course after enrollment?
Yes. Returning students can use the Student Portal or direct course access from the website to return to coursework, quizzes, and account information.