Job Prospects for Pharmacy Techs

The employment outlook for individuals interested in becoming a pharmacy technician is very promising, with numerous job opportunities available in settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, drug stores, grocery stores, and mail-order pharmacies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to increase faster than the average rate, with a predicted 12% growth in employment from 2016 to 2026. This is due in part to the expanding responsibilities of pharmacists, who are now adopting a more patient-focused approach and delegating more complex tasks to their technicians.

As the demand for pharmacists and their technicians continues to grow, so does the need for comprehensive training programs. While some states still allow individuals to work as pharmacy technicians with only a high school diploma and on-the-job training, more states are requiring formal education to ensure technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties.

For those interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy technology, there are several top online programs available to provide the necessary education and training. The field of pharmacy is constantly evolving, and skilled technicians are in high demand to keep up with these changes.

Pharmacy Tech Schools: What to Expect in an Online Program

Here are some key points to consider when looking into online pharmacy technician certificate or degree programs:

When considering online pharmacy technician certificate or degree programs, there are several key points to keep in mind to ensure you choose the best program for your needs:

• Accreditation: Look for programs that are accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) to ensure they meet industry standards.

• Curriculum: Consider the courses offered and whether they align with your career goals.

• Hands-on experience: Look for programs that offer opportunities for internships or externships to gain real-world experience.

• Flexibility: Consider the program’s schedule and delivery format to ensure it fits with your other commitments.

• Support: Look for programs that offer access to instructors, tutors, and advisors to provide guidance and support throughout your education.

By considering these key points, you can choose an online pharmacy technician program that provides the education and skills needed to succeed in the field.

Degree Levels for Online Pharmacy Tech Programs

Online pharmacy technician programs are available at different degree levels, allowing students to choose a program that best suits their educational goals and career aspirations. Here are the different degree levels for online pharmacy tech programs:

• Certificate Programs: These programs typically take around six months to a year to complete and focus on providing students with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to work as a pharmacy technician.

• Associate Degree Programs: These programs take around two years to complete and offer a more comprehensive curriculum that includes general education courses and more advanced training in pharmacy operations, pharmacology, and patient interactions.

• Bachelor’s Degree Programs: These programs typically take four years to complete and offer a broader and more in-depth education in pharmacy technology, including advanced training in areas such as pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutical sciences, and drug development.

Choosing the right degree level for an online pharmacy tech program will depend on your career goals, current educational background, and availability of time and resources.

1. Diploma Programs

Diploma programs are also skills-focused but may be slightly longer and more comprehensive than certificate programs. They often include internships or externships to provide hands-on experience.

2. Certificate Programs

These programs are designed to provide fundamental pharmacy technician skills, such as pharmacology, patient interactions, pharmacy operations, and pharmacy calculations. They typically take less time to complete and are less expensive than other degree options.

3. Associate Degree Programs

These programs include the same coursework as certificate and diploma programs but also offer more advanced pharmacy, science, and technical training. They typically take two years to complete and result in an associate degree, such as Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science, or Associate of Occupational Science.

How to Choose Among the Best Online Pharmacy Tech Programs

1. Penn Foster

Penn Foster College offers a Pharmacy Technician Career Diploma program that can be completed entirely online. The program includes courses in medical terminology, pharmacology, dosage calculations, and pharmacy law and ethics. Students will also gain hands-on experience through an optional externship. Penn Foster College is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and has been providing distance education for over 125 years.

2. Ashworth College

Ashworth College offers an online Pharmacy Technician Diploma program that can be completed in as little as four months. The program covers topics such as pharmacy law, drug classification, medical terminology, and prescription processing. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in a 160-hour externship to gain practical experience. Ashworth College is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and has been providing affordable, flexible distance education programs since 1987.

Top 9 Schools Offering a Pharmacy Tech Certificate Online

Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global’s online pharmacy technician certificate program provides students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work as a pharmacy technician in various healthcare settings. Students learn about pharmacology, medication dispensing, drug classification, dosage forms, and pharmacy law and regulations. The program can be completed in as little as nine months and includes a 180-hour pharmacy technician externship.

Penn Foster College

Penn Foster College’s online pharmacy technician certificate program is self-paced, allowing students to complete coursework at their convenience. The program includes topics such as medical terminology, pharmacology, dosage calculations, and drug classifications. Students also complete an externship to gain hands-on experience in a pharmacy setting.

Ashworth College

Ashworth College’s online pharmacy technician certificate program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to work as a pharmacy technician. The program covers topics such as medical terminology, pharmacology, drug classification, dosage calculations, and pharmacy law and regulations. Students complete an externship to gain practical experience.

Ultimate Medical Academy

Ultimate Medical Academy’s online pharmacy technician diploma program prepares students for entry-level positions in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. The program includes coursework in pharmacology, pharmacy law, dosage calculations, and drug classification. Students also complete an externship to gain practical experience.

Penn Foster Career School

Penn Foster Career School’s online pharmacy technician certificate program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to work as a pharmacy technician. The program covers topics such as medical terminology, pharmacology, drug classification, dosage calculations, and pharmacy law and regulations. Students complete an externship to gain hands-on experience in a pharmacy setting.

Pharmacy Tech Certification

Pharmacy tech certification is a process through which a pharmacy technician can become certified by taking and passing an examination. There are two main certification exams for pharmacy technicians in the United States:

1. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
2. The Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT), is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Both exams cover similar topics related to pharmacy practice, including medications, pharmacy calculations, pharmacy law and ethics, and pharmacy operations. Certification is not always required by employers, but it can enhance job prospects and earning potential for pharmacy technicians.

To be eligible to take the certification exam, candidates must typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a pharmacy technician training program, and meet any additional eligibility requirements set by the certifying organization. Certification is typically valid for two years and requires continuing education to maintain.