A-STEP, the Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program
A-STEP provides participants with standardized education and training that develops a knowledge-base about sleep medicine and the professional skills required of a sleep technologist. As a staff member at a sleep facility, a sleep technologist administers sleep tests to patients as well as therapeutic services. The sleep technologist also assists the sleep physician with patient care and education.
A-STEP is part of a two-step training program that includes an 80-hour educational AASM A-STEP Introductory Course, followed by 14 Web-based Self-Study Modules which participants can complete during on-the-job training provided by their employer. After passing the A-STEP Introductory Course Final Exam, students become a Polysomnographic (PSG) Trainee. After passing a board exam, students will become a Polysomnographic (PSG) Technologist. The AASM has created example job descriptions for the PSG Trainee and the PSG Technologist.
The Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine has earned a two-year accreditation as an A-STEP Provider, meaning that the Introductory Course has met the standards of accreditation designated by the AASM. The accreditation process involved a detailed evaluation of Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine’s program, including faculty, curriculum, resources and assessment.
Individuals interested in receiving formalized education and training in sleep technology by enrolling as an A-STEP participant at the Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine can email Eileen Leary [eleary] (eleary@stanford.edu) or call (650) 724-9639.
Pathways for Becoming Credentialed as a Sleep Technologist
There are a number of pathways to becoming credentialed as a sleep technologist depending on your experience. A-STEP was developed by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and is a requirement for eligibility for the Sleep Technologist Registry Exam to become an Registered Sleep Technologist (RST). The RST exam is offered by the American Board of Sleep Medicine.
There are two types of Polysomnographic (PSG) credential exams offered through the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT). A Registered Polysomnographic Technologist™ (RPSGT) is the higher level of certification intended for individuals who have clinical experience in sleep. The Certified Polysomnographic Technician (CPSGT) is an entry level certification for individuals new to the sleep field. The A-STEP program is a BRPT Sleep Technology Approved Resource (STAR).
Many states also require techs to register through the state medical board. Click here to read more about the Medical Board of California's requirments.
The Next A-STEP Introductory Course is February 29 - March 11, 2016*
The tuition for this 2 week, 80 hour course is $4,000. Sessions will be held at the Stanford Sleep Medicine Center, located at 450 Broadway Street, Redwood City, CA 94063.
To register for the course, please email Eileen Leary [eleary].
Complete your training through an A-STEP Provider to:
- Be a better trained sleep technologist
- Prepare for the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) examination
- Earn a certificate of training, recognized by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) and the BRPT
- Advance the field of sleep technology
*Subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.
Minimum Requirements for Enrolling in A-STEP
Education and/or Experience Entry
High school diploma or GED plus 6 months of direct patient care experience or 1 year of postsecondary education.
OR
Current enrollment in an accredited educational program leading to an associate degree with an emphasis in polysomnography.
Physical Demands
Students must be able to perform the duties specified in the job description for a Polysomnographic Trainee.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) is an equal opportunity employer and program. All qualified applicants for attending or teaching the course will receive consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability, provided they meet the minimum requirements.
Grievance Policy and Procedures
In accordance with AASM's Standard 34, click here to find the Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine's A-STEP Grievance Policy.