What Pharmacy Technician Programs Include

Pharmacy technician programs typically cover a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for real-world pharmacy environments. Most programs include coursework in pharmaceutical terminology, medication dispensing procedures, pharmacy law and ethics, and inventory management systems.

Students also receive hands-on training in measuring medications, processing prescriptions, and interacting with patients. Many programs incorporate laboratory components where students practice using pharmacy software and equipment. The typical program length ranges from 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you pursue a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.

Types of Pharmacy Technician Credentials

When exploring pharmacy technician programs, you'll encounter several credential options. Certificate programs offer the quickest path to employment, typically requiring 6-12 months to complete. Diploma programs usually take 12-18 months and provide more comprehensive training. Associate degree programs, spanning about two years, offer the most in-depth education and often include general education courses.

Each credential type has different admission requirements. Certificate programs may only require a high school diploma, while associate degree programs might have prerequisite coursework. Consider your career goals when selecting a program type—some employers prefer candidates with more extensive education, particularly in hospital or specialty pharmacy settings.

Online vs. In-Person Training Options

Pharmacy technician programs are available in both online and in-person formats, each with distinct advantages. Online programs offer flexibility for working adults or those with family responsibilities. These programs typically allow students to complete theoretical coursework remotely while arranging local clinical experiences.

In-person programs provide immediate hands-on practice with equipment and direct supervision from instructors. Many schools offer hybrid options that combine online learning with on-campus laboratory sessions. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) accreditation is an important factor regardless of format, as it ensures the program meets established quality standards.

Provider Comparison for Pharmacy Tech Education

Several institutions offer quality pharmacy technician training with varying approaches and strengths. Penn Foster provides a self-paced online program with affordable tuition and no set class times. Their program includes exam preparation but requires students to arrange their own externship.

CVS Health offers a unique approach through their Pharmacy Technician Training Program, combining education with paid on-the-job training. This pathway often leads to employment opportunities within their pharmacy network upon successful completion.

Community colleges like Maricopa Community Colleges provide accredited programs with strong local employer connections and comprehensive laboratory facilities. Their programs typically offer more personalized instruction and established externship partnerships with area pharmacies.

Certification Requirements After Program Completion

After completing a pharmacy technician program, most states require certification to practice. The primary certification options are the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the ExCPT exam from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Quality pharmacy technician programs should prepare graduates for these certification exams through comprehensive review materials and practice tests. Many programs include certification exam fees in their tuition. Additionally, most states require pharmacy technicians to register with their state board of pharmacy and complete continuing education to maintain certification. When evaluating programs, inquire about their certification exam pass rates, which indicates how well they prepare students for these crucial assessments.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pharmacy technician program requires careful consideration of format, duration, cost, and accreditation status. Look for programs with strong externship components and certification preparation to maximize your employment potential. Whether pursuing a certificate, diploma, or associate degree, ensure the program aligns with your career goals and state requirements. With healthcare demand continuing to grow, properly trained pharmacy technicians remain essential members of the pharmacy team, providing crucial support to pharmacists and quality care to patients.

Citations

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.