It’s a well-known adage that knowledge is power. This is especially true in the workplace, where job candidates vie for the same position. Though pharmacy technicians are not mandated by most state laws to have degrees or certifications, those who do have them may receive more favorable job considerations and higher salaries. In today’s competitive market, proper education for pharmacy technician professionals is essential.
Pharmacy technicians work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, and pharmaceutical sales. Regardless of their position, it’s important for a pharmacy technician to know basic skills. There are a variety of vocational and community colleges that offer degrees and certificates for pharmacy technicians. These programs prepare students for work in a pharmacy, as well as for certification by national certification boards.
Pharmacy Technician Training
Pharmacy technician education programs vary, but will usually include courses on pharmacology, chemistry, biology, anatomy, pharmaceutical terminology and calculations, drug laws, prescription preparation, and medical billing. Accredited certificate track programs can require anywhere from 25 to 50 credit hours for completion. Many of them are designed to help students prepare for the national certification board exam, required to earn the title of “certified pharmacy technician” (CPhT).
Additionally, degree programs will also require an internship in the field, usually in a pharmacy or hospital. This real-world knowledge will help students gain the skills they need to succeed after graduation. Working in a pharmacy during school may also improve a student’s chances of finding a position after graduation. Pharmacy technicians possessing degrees may also have more opportunities for advancement to supervisory or specialty roles, as well as higher salaries and better benefits.
Salaries for pharmacy technicians vary widely and can be significantly influenced by the amount of education a technician has attained and whether or not they are certified. While this can be said for many careers, the value of solid skills and education for pharmacy technician professionals cannot be overstated. Pharmacy technicians play an integral role in the workings of a pharmacy and as the main assistant to licensed pharmacists. Without a skilled technician to support him or her, a pharmacist may not have the time to counsel patients one-on-one about prescription medications, which is one of the primary focuses of pharmacy practice.
While pharmacy technicians have traditionally had to look to vocational or community colleges for their training and education, education for pharmacy technicians is becoming more mainstream. Some big-name universities and colleges are starting to offer one- and two-year programs for those interested in pursuing a degree or certificate program. Be sure to check out local schools that may not have offered this career track in the past, especially those that have a pharmacology program.
As the population ages, pharmacies are becoming even busier as they attempt to keep up with the need for prescription drugs. While this trend has opened up jobs, it has also shined a light on the need for thorough training and education for pharmacy technician professionals. Pharmacy technician education is in high demand. So, too, are well-educated pharmacy technicians.
