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Pharmacy Tech in a pharmacy

Become a Pharmacy Technician

This 100% online pharmacy technician course will prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and help you understand how to assist the pharmacist in the packing and distribution of medication. You will receive didactic and hands-on training to develop the skills necessary for employment in this in-demand field.

Your course includes a voucher that covers the certification exam fee. As part of your hour-long pharmacy technician training, you will also have the option to perform a hands-on, 100-hour Practicum Experience. Practicum Experiences are based on your individual state board requirements, so please ensure you research these thoroughly.

Note: This course does not meet state requirements for students intending to work in North Dakota, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia.

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Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for pharmacy technicians will grow 6% through 2038, faster than the average rate for all other professions (3%). Over the decade, around 44,900 jobs for pharmacy technicians are expected annually.

The BLS notes that, on average, the annual salary for pharmacy technicians is $37,790 (as of May 2022), with the top 10% earning over $50,640.

Pharmacy Technicians FAQs

Pharmacy technicians order and stock medications, prepare medications for distribution and provide information to patients. Pharmacy technicians may perform many of the same duties as a pharmacist; however, their work must be approved by a pharmacist before medication can be dispensed. 

Requirements for pharmacy technicians vary by state, but most require certification, registration or licensure. Earning your certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) provides a valuable, industry-recognized credential that meets most states’ requirements.

Pharmacy technician training can be completed in one year or less. This does not include the time you spend in an externship program or preparing and sitting for state licensure.

As the population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases rises, more pharmacy technicians will be needed in pharmacies and may even see themselves taking on greater responsibilities in their role.

Course Objectives

  • Obtain a comprehensive understanding of the pharmacy technician role, including essential professional skills and communication expectations necessary for success in a pharmacy setting
  • Understand pharmacy regulations and standards from regulatory agencies and professional associations to ensure patient safety, high-quality care, and proper medication handling
  • Gain practical knowledge of medication processing and handling procedures, including the ability to identify medication orders and read prescription forms accurately
  • Learn about medication storage guidelines and quality assurance procedures in the pharmacy department
  • Develop essential skills for success as a pharmacy technician, including accuracy, attention to detail, and effective communication

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Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to take this course. However, the externship requires that you have a high school diploma and be at least 18 years old.

Instructors

Melissa Dunworth has been a certified pharmacy technician since 1997. She is registered with the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences.

Betty Stahl holds a doctorate in pharmacy from Shenandoah University. Over the past several years, she has taught pharmacy technician programs at ASA College in New York City and ACT in Arlington, Virginia. Stahl has also worked as a pharmacist in independent and hospital settings.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.

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