Best 7 Pharmacy Technician Schools : Unlock Your Potential

Pharmacy Technician Schools

Searching for the best pharmacy technician schools? The best way to prepare to become a professional is to take your education online. We have listed some of the top-rated US pharmacy technician schools for you. Choose your school below!

A pharmacy technician is a vital member of the healthcare team, responsible for assisting pharmacists in preparing and distributing medications to patients. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, it’s important to choose a reputable and well-respected school to receive your education and training. Here are the top 7 pharmacy technician schools to help you unlock your potential and launch a successful career in this field.

  1. The University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Aurora, Colorado, offers a comprehensive pharmacy technician program that includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy practice, and pharmacy calculations, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy setting. The program also includes a pharmacy technician externship, giving students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in a pharmacy setting.
  2. The Pharmacy Technician Program at Madison College in Madison, Wisconsin, is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy laboratory. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).
  3. The Pharmacy Technician Program at Pima Medical Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is designed to prepare students for a career as a pharmacy technician in a hospital or retail setting. The program includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and pharmacy law, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy laboratory. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the PTCE to become a CPhT.
  4. The Pharmacy Technician Program at San Jacinto College in Pasadena, Texas, is a comprehensive program that includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and pharmacy law, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy laboratory. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the PTCE to become a CPhT.
  5. The Pharmacy Technician Program at Stanbridge University in Irvine, California, is a nationally accredited program that prepares students for a career as a pharmacy technician in a hospital or retail setting. The program includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and pharmacy law, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy laboratory. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the PTCE to become a CPhT.
  6. The Pharmacy Technician Program at Heritage College in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is a comprehensive program that includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and pharmacy law, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy laboratory. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the PTCE to become a CPhT.
  7. The Pharmacy Technician Program at Rasmussen College in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a nationally accredited program that prepares students for a career as a pharmacy technician in a hospital or retail setting. The program includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and pharmacy law, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy laboratory. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the PTCE to become a CPhT.
The University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy
The University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy

A career in the medical field is always safe and promising. And these days, pharmacy technician is among the most demanding career in the medical field. Aspirants with previous work experience have an advantage over those with none. However, by getting a certification or acquiring a degree, you will have an extra edge.

Now for that, you need to join an accredited pharmacy technician schools. So here in this article, we will discuss about how to enroll into one of these schools and the different options available there.

The Pharmacy Technician Program at Madison College in Madison, Wisconsin
The Pharmacy Technician Schools at Madison College in Madison, Wisconsin

What are the requirements and Prerequisites of such Pharmacy Technician Schools?

Before applying for any of the pharmacy technician schools, one must meet certain requirements and prerequisites. Below here are those requirements.

  • First is your age. You must be at least 18 years old in order to apply for the program.
  • If you are not yet 18 then a qualifying pharmacist with whom you will be working should submit a statement supporting your request to be a certified pharmacy technician.
  • Next you must hold a high school diploma or equivalent GED.
  • Should complete a criminal background check and a drug test.
  • The students are required to provide evidences showing that they are in good health and that they do not have any contagious diseases.

What are the programs offered pharmacy technician schools?

There is a range of options available in pharmacy technician training programs. Below here are those training options available to an individual interested in the field.

1. Certificate Program

Those who are looking for a shortcut to enter the pharmacy technician field will find the certificate program the best option. The program focuses on the basic aspects of the training where you will be train to maintain client profiles and insurance claim forms.

Additionally you will learn to prepare and provide medication and other health products to patients including intravenous solutions mixing, tablets counting, bottle labeling and receiving electronic prescriptions from medial offices.

Courses

  • Study Skills
  • Anatomy, Physiology and terminology
  • Computer Basics
  • Math Fundamentals
  • CPR & First Aid
  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmacy Math
  • Fundamentals of Chemistry

The program can last from 8 months to a year. At the end of the program, there is an externship program. Meaning you can work as a professional pharmacy technician in a real life setting for a definite period of time which is a great opportunity to gain work experience.

Upon completion of the program, the students should take the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (CPhT) in order to get licensure to work as a professional pharmacy technician.

2. Associate Degree Program

The associate degree program in pharmacy technology is designed to provide you with knowledge, laboratory skills, and field experience so that you can assist pharmacists in providing medication and other healthcare products to patients.

The program focuses on basic to advance understandings and principles of medical and pharmaceutical technology, pharmacology including pharmacy law and ethics. Basically, the associate degree program prepares students for the entry level position in the field.

Courses

  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmacy Systems of Operation
  • Dosage and Calculations of Medicines
  • Advanced Pharmacy Calculations
  • Pharmacy Practices
  • Health Care Law and Ethics
  • Terminology of Body Systems and Support
  • Chemistry
  • Diseases of the Human Body

The program can take from 18 months to 2 years to complete. Most of the states offer externships to the students at the end of the program so they could receive hands on experience in a pharmacy practice site.

Students completing the program are prepared to sit for the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Tell me something about Online pharmacy technician schools?

There is a good news for those who are interested in the pharmacy technician career but could not attend a campus based training program because of their busy schedule. Yes, it’s the online Classes.

The online option is especially designed for those individuals who have a busy schedule or those who have a family or a job responsibility. The program enables them to receive the trainings and skills from their own place and at their own pace.

Pharmacy Technician Schools Online
Online Pharmacy Technician Schools

However there is a common myth among people; they say that the online program is completely online and that you do not need to visit the college premises. This is not true. The students need to visit the college premises occasionally.

Pharmacy technician training program is practical based and demands considerable amount of time in a clinical setting. That is why the online program follows the hybrid process in which only the theoretical component of the course is presented via online means.

The practical component on the other hand is presented in a clinical setting affiliated to the online institution. And that is the part of the program when student need to visit the clinical setting.

Both the certificate and associate degree programs are available in the online option.

Now Tell me in short how to become a pharmacy technician?

Step I: Complete the Prerequisites. Make sure that you meet all the prerequisites mentioned above.

Step II: Determine which training option suits you the best. Choose that training option which you think will help you meet your career goals.

Step III: Next locate the pharmacy technician schools at your area. But remember the school needs to be accredited and should provide externships or internships during or at the end of the program.

Step IV: Apply into the pharmacy technician school. Now to apply into one of these schools, follow these guidelines.

  • Pay for the application form and fill it out with valid information.
  • Next submit your transcripts and other required documents along with the application before deadline.
  • You may be asked to attain an interview with the instructor or program director so make sure you are ready to attain one.
  • If you are planning to apply for the financial options then you need to act early. Fill out the form for the student aid options and make sure there won’t be any financial problem during your training program.

Step V: Complete the training program and then take the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (CPhT) in order to get licensure to work as a professional pharmacy technician.

Step VI: It is a good idea to gain some work experiences before applying for a job. Try to work as an intern in a clinical setting which will help you gain real life experience thus you will be better prepared for the challenges up ahead.

What are some of the useful tips to find a best Pharmacy Technician Schools?

You will have several options to choose from when it comes to joining a pharmacy technician schools. So below here are some quick tips that will help you out in your search and will help you can make an intelligent decision.

  • Give enough time for the search.
  • List all the local community colleges or schools offering pharmacy technician training programs. Separate all those offering 6 months, 1 year and 2 year courses.
  • Collect details about the background of each of these schools. This includes its reputation, past results, student’s feedbacks and accreditation agencies.
  • Make sure that the school offers internships or externships options to the students during or at the end of their training program.
  • Check for the financial aid options if you cannot afford the cost. Apply into one of the federal aid programs as early as you can.
  • Visit the college premises personally and if possible attain an interview with the program director.
  • Internet is another great source for information. Join forums and view reviews about the schools.
  • Make small notes about each of the pharmacy technician schools and highlight its features. This will make it easier to compare.
  • Compare the notes and choose the best one among them.

How to find pharmacy technician school near me?

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, it’s important to find a reputable school that offers the education and training you need to succeed in this field. But with so many options available, how do you find a pharmacy technician school near you? Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  1. Research accreditation: Look for a pharmacy technician school that is accredited by a recognized organization, such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These organizations ensure that the program meets certain standards and provides students with a high-quality education.
  2. Consider location: It’s important to find a pharmacy technician school that is convenient for you to attend. Consider the location of the school, as well as any transportation options or parking availability.
  3. Check out the program: Look for a pharmacy technician school that offers a comprehensive program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. This will give you a well-rounded education and prepare you for a successful career as a pharmacy technician.
  4. Look into financial aid options: If you’re concerned about paying for your education, look for a pharmacy technician school that offers financial aid options, such as scholarships or grants.
  5. Ask for recommendations: Talk to pharmacists or other healthcare professionals in your area and ask for recommendations on pharmacy technician schools. They may have firsthand knowledge of local programs and can provide valuable insights.

To find pharmacy technician schools near you, start by conducting an online search for “pharmacy technician schools in [your city or state].” This will provide a list of schools in your area, which you can then research and compare to find the best fit for you. You can also use online directories or databases, such as the ASHP or the NHA, to find accredited pharmacy technician programs near you. Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out to schools directly and ask for more information about their programs and admissions requirements.

How to become a pharmacy technician without going to school?

In most states, pharmacy technicians are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a formal education program to become certified. However, there are a few states that allow individuals to become pharmacy technicians without completing a formal education program. In these states, individuals can become pharmacy technicians by meeting the following requirements:

  1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
  2. Pass a criminal background check.
  3. Register with the state pharmacy board as a pharmacy technician trainee.
  4. Work under the supervision of a pharmacist for a certain amount of time (typically around 1,000 hours) while completing on-the-job training.
  5. Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).
CPhT Pharmacy Technician Schools
CPhT Pharmacy Technician School

It’s important to note that although it is possible to become a pharmacy technician without completing a formal education program in certain states, most employers prefer to hire technicians who have received formal training and are certified. Additionally, some states may require pharmacy technicians to complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification.

It’s also worth noting that although it is possible to become a pharmacy technician without going to school, obtaining a formal education can provide valuable knowledge and skills that can help you succeed in this field. It can also increase your job opportunities and earning potential. Therefore, it’s worth considering enrolling in a pharmacy technician program to receive formal training and increase your chances of success in this career.

Top 7 Pharmacy technician schools NJ New Jersey

Here are some pharmacy technician schools located in New Jersey:

  1. Bergen Community College: This school offers a certificate program in pharmacy technology that can be completed in one year. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting.
  2. Mercer County Community College: MCCC offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  3. Union County College: This school offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  4. Camden County College: CCC’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  5. Passaic County Community College: PCCC offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  6. Raritan Valley Community College: This school offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  7. Atlantic Cape Community College: ACCC’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.

Top 7 Pharmacy technician schools Brooklyn New York NY

Here are some pharmacy technician schools located in Brooklyn, New York:

  1. Medgar Evers College: This school offers a certificate program in pharmacy technology that can be completed in two years. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting.
  2. LaGuardia Community College: Laguardia’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in two years and prepares students for certification exams.
  3. New York City College of Technology: This school offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in two years and prepares students for certification exams.
  4. Kingsborough Community College: KCC’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The program can be completed in two years and prepares students for certification exams.
  5. Borough of Manhattan Community College: BMCC’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in two years and prepares students for certification exams.
  6. Brooklyn College: This school offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in two years and prepares students for certification exams.
  7. CUNY School of Professional Studies: The pharmacy technician program at the CUNY School of Professional Studies includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in two years and prepares students for certification exams.

Top 7 Pharmacy technician schools Las Vegas

Here are some pharmacy technician schools located in Las Vegas, Nevada:

  1. College of Southern Nevada: This school offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  2. Pima Medical Institute: Pima’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  3. Carrington College: Carrington’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  4. Kaplan College: This school offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  5. Southwest Career and Technical Academy: SCTA’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  6. Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts: This school offers a pharmacy technician program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.
  7. Brightwood College: Brightwood’s pharmacy technician program includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and a clinical internship. The program can be completed in one year and prepares students for certification exams.

Top 3 pharmacy technician school Sacramento

Pharmacy technicians are an integral part of the healthcare industry, responsible for assisting pharmacists in dispensing medication and providing customer service to patients. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician in the Sacramento area, there are several schools that offer training programs to help you get started. Here are the top 3 pharmacy technician schools in Sacramento:

  1. American River College – American River College offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The program consists of 40 hours of lecture and 60 hours of externship, providing students with a well-rounded education in the field. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).
  2. Sacramento City College – Sacramento City College offers a pharmacy technician program that is also accredited by the ASHP. The program consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training, covering topics such as pharmacology, medication safety, and customer service. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the PTCE and become a CPhT.
  3. Carrington College – Carrington College offers a pharmacy technician program that is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the field. The program consists of coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, and medication safety, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy setting. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the PTCE and become a CPhT.

All three of these pharmacy technician schools in Sacramento have reputable programs and are good options for those interested in pursuing a career in the field. It is important to research and compare the programs to find the one that best fits your needs and goals.

Best pharmacy technician schools Riverside California CA

Riverside, California is home to several schools that offer pharmacy technician training programs. Here are the top 3 pharmacy technician schools in Riverside:

  1. Riverside Community College District – Riverside Community College District offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The program consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training, covering topics such as pharmacology, medication safety, and customer service. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).
  2. Riverside City College – Riverside City College offers a pharmacy technician program that is also accredited by the ASHP. The program consists of coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, and medication safety, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy setting. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the PTCE and become a CPhT.
  3. Carrington College – Carrington College has a campus located in Riverside that offers a pharmacy technician program. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the field and includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, and medication safety, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy setting. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the PTCE and become a CPhT.

It is important to research and compare the pharmacy technician programs at these schools to determine which one is the best fit for you. Consider factors such as the program curriculum, duration, and cost, as well as the reputation and accreditation of the school.

Top 3 pharmacy technician schools MN Minnesota

Minnesota has several schools that offer pharmacy technician training programs. Here are the top 3 pharmacy technician schools in Minnesota:

  1. Minneapolis Community and Technical College – Minneapolis Community and Technical College offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The program consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training, covering topics such as pharmacology, medication safety, and customer service. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).
  2. Dakota County Technical College – Dakota County Technical College offers a pharmacy technician program that is also accredited by the ASHP. The program consists of coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, and medication safety, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy setting. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the PTCE and become a CPhT.
  3. St. Cloud Technical and Community College – St. Cloud Technical and Community College offers a pharmacy technician program that includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, and medication safety, as well as hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy setting. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the PTCE and become a CPhT.

Pharmacy technician schools how long?

The length of a pharmacy technician school program can vary depending on the institution and the type of program. Here are a few factors that can affect the duration of a pharmacy technician program:

  1. Type of program: Pharmacy technician programs can be offered at community colleges, technical schools, and four-year colleges and universities. The length of the program may vary depending on the type of institution offering the program.
  2. Format of the program: Pharmacy technician programs can be offered in a traditional classroom setting or online. Online programs may be self-paced, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace. This can affect the length of the program.
  3. Curriculum: The curriculum for pharmacy technician programs may vary by institution. Some programs may cover more material than others, which can affect the length of the program.

On average, pharmacy technician programs can range from six months to two years in length. Certificate programs, which typically focus on the essential skills and knowledge needed to work as a pharmacy technician, may be shorter in duration and take six months to a year to complete. Associate degree programs, which are more comprehensive and include general education courses in addition to pharmacy technician coursework, may take two years to complete.

It’s important to carefully research the length and curriculum of a pharmacy technician program before enrolling to ensure that it meets your needs and goals.

Conclusion of Best 7 Pharmacy Technician Schools : Unlock Your Potential

In conclusion, becoming a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding career path for those interested in the healthcare field. It is important to choose a reputable school that provides quality education and training to prepare you for certification and success in your future career. The pharmacy technician schools listed in this article are some of the best options available, with various program offerings and locations to suit different needs and preferences. Consider these schools as you begin your journey towards becoming a pharmacy technician and unlocking your potential in this exciting field.

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