Pharmacy Technicians are in demand as the world of medicine continues to evolve, as BLS projects a 6% job growth outlook from 2022 through 2032, which is faster than average. Those seeking Pharmacy Technician Training will enjoy a balanced and diverse set of responsibilities ranging from medical, customer service and administrative duties. But before you settle into the field of a pharmacy technician, you need the proper training, certification, and licensing in order to supply those in need with their proper medicine.
Read on for some in-depth info on Arizona College’s Pharmacy Technician training process.
Hands-On Course Training
Learning the expertise required to enter a new field involves a theoretical understanding of medical info and lab equipment, as well as hands-on training from pharmacy technicians.
At Arizona College, our students learn in facilities outfitted with the industry standard lab equipment like ointment slabs, prescription balances, laminar flow holds, counting trays, pill crushers and plenty of other teaching aids — all from the guidance of seasoned instructors.
A large part of a Pharmacy Technician’s job is to facilitate orders and communications using Pharmacy Management Software. Students who complete our Pharmacy Technician training bring with them skills in software similar to what is used by pharmacies nationwide. In the event something isn’t clicking, we offer open lab and tutoring sessions by appointment to ensure you have a firm grasp of all material as you progress through training.
Real World Experience
Our Pharmacy Technician training course takes three quarters to complete. All students who complete the on-campus part of training will participate in an off-campus clinical externship portion for the last quarter of the program. In total, the program takes around 34 weeks to finish. Taking the theoretical and hands-on knowledge you’ll gain in the first three quarters of Pharmacy Technician training will give you knowledge helpful in the real world.
Certification
We encourage all Arizona College graduates to take the next step forward to pursue certification and licensing in the field. The first step of the process is to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) by passing the examination offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). If you plan to work as a technician in Arizona, the CPhT is required for a full Pharmacy Technician License. In order to practice as a Pharmacy Technician, you’ll need to have one of the following two licenses:
Trainee License
A trainee license is required to participate in the clinical externship part of our program and can be obtained by applying to the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. You need your U.S. birth certificate and high school diploma or GED equivalent. The license costs $46 and lasts for two years.
Full License
A full license allows you to practice as a Pharmacy Technician in Arizona. You must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) given by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. You’ll have to show your PTCB certification to apply for a Certified License. Once you get your Full Pharmacy Technician License it’s time to celebrate, as you now can practice as a technician in Arizona!
Stay Sharp
Keep in mind both your Certified License and PTCB certification will need to be renewed every two years. You must complete 20 hours of continuing education to renew your certification and be eligible to apply for a renewed license. When you need to renew, Arizona College offers great courses to continue your education
- Sterile Products IV Certification
Learn the proper preparation and technique involving sterile products and aseptic over a two days of hands-on training, nine home study modules and eight process technique validations. This course meets all State Board of Pharmacy training requirements for IV Certified Pharmacy Technicians and Pharmacists.
- Compounding Certification
Solidify your knowledge on the topics of extemporaneous, non-sterile pharmaceutical compounding over two days of hands-on training and 10 home study modules complete with exams. Immerse yourself in the latest techniques, methods and equipment for further career options in the Pharmacy Technician field.
Learn more about certification courses here.
Think you’re ready to tackle the exciting and challenging road toward becoming a Pharmacy Technician? Fill out the Request Information form to the right for the first step.
Information in this blog post is accurate as of October 20, 2015.