Pharmacy Technician Training: A Practical Entry into the Healthcare Field

As demand for prescription medications continues to grow in the U.S., pharmacy technicians have become an essential part of the healthcare delivery system. With training programs available both in person and online, many students are exploring this role as a way to enter the healthcare field efficiently and affordably.

What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?
Pharmacy technicians assist licensed pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, processing insurance claims, and interacting with patients. Common responsibilities include:

🔹 Measuring and packaging prescription medications
🔹 Labeling and organizing drug inventory
🔹 Entering prescription orders into databases
🔹 Handling customer service and insurance billing
🔹 Maintaining sterile environments in some clinical settings

They may work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, or mail-order operations.

Why Consider a Pharmacy Technician Training Program?
Enrolling in a pharmacy technician training program offers several benefits:

🔹 Short Training Time – Many programs can be completed in 6 to 12 months
🔹 Hands-On Learning – Courses often include externships in pharmacies
🔹 Certification Preparation – Prepares students for national exams like the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board)
🔹 Career Mobility – Provides a pathway to further careers in pharmacy, nursing, or healthcare administration

These programs are ideal for individuals seeking a structured route into healthcare support roles without committing to years of schooling.

What Will Be Learned in the Program
A typical pharmacy technician training program includes:

🔹 Pharmacology Basics – Common medications, classifications, and uses
🔹 Pharmacy Law & Ethics – Regulations and best practices in handling prescriptions
🔹 Dosage Calculations – Accurate measurement and compounding
🔹 Prescription Processing – Using pharmacy software systems
🔹 Customer Communication – Patient privacy and effective service

Some programs also include exam prep modules and CPR certification training.

Online vs. In-Person Training
There are three main formats for pharmacy technician training: online, in-person, and hybrid. Each comes with unique advantages and limitations that can impact learning outcomes, practical experience, and accessibility.

🔹 Online Programs – These programs provide maximum flexibility, making them suitable for those balancing work or family responsibilities. They are often self-paced and include digital modules, quizzes, and video instruction. However, they require strong self-motivation and may lack real-time interaction with instructors.

🔹 In-Person Programs – Typically offered at community colleges or vocational schools, these provide structured classroom learning with direct access to instructors and lab facilities. They often include live demonstrations and supervised practice with pharmacy equipment.

🔹 Hybrid Programs – Combining the strengths of online and in-person models, hybrid formats offer online theoretical learning alongside scheduled in-person labs or externships. This approach is ideal for learners seeking both flexibility and hands-on experience.

Many reputable programs, especially those accredited by ASHP or state boards, include externship placements in local retail or hospital pharmacies. These real-world experiences are crucial for developing job-ready skills and meeting certification requirements.

Certification and Licensing
In most states, certification is not legally required, but it significantly improves employability. Two major national certification exams include:

🔹 PTCB – Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
🔹 ExCPT – Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians

According to the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, over 730,000 pharmacy technicians were certified as of 2023. （Source）

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Employment growth is projected at 6% from 2022 to 2032
• Median annual wage for pharmacy technicians in 2023 was $40,300( BLS)
• Top employers include hospitals, grocery store pharmacies, and drug store chains

Job prospects are especially strong for certified technicians and those with experience in sterile compounding or specialized pharmacy areas.

Recommended Pharmacy Technician Training Programs
While specific offerings may vary by region, several well-established institutions are known for their pharmacy technician training quality. When exploring programs, consider those that are nationally accredited and offer a strong mix of academic and practical training.

🔹 Penn Foster Career School – Offers a fully online, self-paced program with interactive simulations and exam prep included.
🔹 Pima Medical Institute – Provides hands-on training with campus-based learning and externship partnerships.
🔹 Carrington College – Known for its short-term diploma program and high certification exam pass rates.
🔹 Southern Careers Institute – Offers hybrid learning options and job placement assistance.
🔹 Local Community Colleges – Many regional schools offer affordable programs with access to local externships and faculty support.

Always verify that a program is accredited and aligns with your state’s certification requirements. Reviews from former students and outcomes like job placement rates can also be valuable indicators of quality.

How to Choose the Best Pharmacy Technician Training Program
When evaluating training options, several important factors should be taken into account:

🔹 Program Accreditation – Choose programs accredited by ASHP/ACPE or recognized state boards to ensure quality standards.
🔹 Curriculum Relevance – Ensure the curriculum covers essential topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, and software systems.
🔹 Certification Exam Preparation – Programs should include preparation for the PTCB or ExCPT exams.
🔹 Externship Availability – Practical training in real pharmacy settings helps build confidence and skills.
🔹 Flexible Learning Formats – Depending on availability, consider online, in-person, or hybrid formats that best match scheduling needs.
🔹 Graduate Success Rates – Look into statistics on certification exam pass rates and job placement to gauge program effectiveness.
🔹 Cost and Financial Support – Evaluate tuition fees, payment plans, and availability of financial aid or scholarships.

How to Find a Job After Training
After completing a pharmacy technician training program and obtaining certification, there are several steps to increase employment opportunities:

🔹 Build a Resume – Highlight coursework, externship experience, and any certifications earned.
🔹 Use Job Boards – Search listings on healthcare job platforms, local pharmacy chains, and hospital systems.
🔹 Attend Career Fairs – Vocational schools and training centers often host job fairs with healthcare employers.
🔹 Network in the Field – Connect with pharmacy professionals through LinkedIn or local healthcare associations.
🔹 Consider Entry-Level Roles – Roles in retail pharmacies or as assistants in hospital settings can provide a strong starting point.
🔹 Stay Certified and Up to Date – Renewal of certification and continuing education are valued by employers.

Summary
Pharmacy technician training offers a direct and flexible route into the healthcare industry. With short program durations, affordable tuition options, and growing demand for certified technicians, it is a valuable choice for those interested in stable, hands-on healthcare careers.