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Pharmacy Technician (Voucher Included)

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Pharmacy Technician (Voucher Included)

Prepare for a career as a pharmacy technician. This immersive course will train you to work as a pharmacy technician and prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE®) to obtain the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB®).

$2,995.00 (USD)

List Price: $3,390.00

Save: $395.00 (12% off)

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infoCareer series
schedule
                                400 Course Hrs
                            

                                Code
                                    GES117
                            
Voucher included
calendar_today
                                12 Months
                            
grid_onOpen enrollment
speedSelf paced

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855.520.6806

Overview

This online pharmacy technician certification course will prepare aspiring pharmacy technicians to effectively assist the pharmacist in the packing and distribution of medication. You will receive didactic and hands-on pharmacy technician training to develop the skills necessary for successful employment in the field.

This pharmacy technician training program will empower you to pursue entry-level pharmacy tech positions by teaching you medical and pharmaceutical terminology, basic anatomy related to the pharmacology of medications, and pharmaceutical calculations. Through this pharmacy technician certification course, you will obtain hands-on practice in retail pharmacy procedures through an online lab module.

You will learn what information is necessary to process prescriptions and physician orders and apply that knowledge to fill mock prescriptions. The curriculum in this pharmacy technician certification course also includes the ethics of pharmacy practice and education about prescription medications, patient care and interaction, and charges and reimbursement.

Upon completion of this pharmacy technician training course, you will be prepared to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). This course includes a voucher which covers the fee for the exam. As a part of completing your pharmacy tech course online, you will also have the option to perform a hands-on, 130-hour Clinical Experience. Clinical Experiences are based on individual state board requirements.

You must ensure that this pharmacy technician certification course meets your state's requirements. For more information, visit your state's Board of Pharmacy site or view a map directly from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) website. You can also call the state board and ask for the current technician regulations.

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

Disclaimer: Participation in a Clinical Experience is contingent upon successfully completing a background check and/or drug screening that is consistent with the requirements of both state and federal laws.

To qualify for the clinical experience application process, students must successfully complete the online course and ensure their account balances are current (at a minimum). It is important to note that ed2go cannot guarantee placement at any clinical site, and students must take full responsibility for fulfilling their clinical requirements. However, our affiliated partnerships can increase the likelihood of finding a site that matches student needs. Students can begin researching the steps of the application process two weeks before completing courses.

Students with prior knowledge can optionally test out of medical terminology by achieving a minimum score of 80%, replacing course content if desired. It is important to understand that this course feature only applies to the online Medical Terminology course. Funding Disclaimer: For Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funded students, please consult with your funding source representative before taking advantage of this course's test-out feature. Different funding programs may have specific requirements and/or restrictions. If you attempt the test-out feature(s) in the Medical Terminology course without getting approval, your funding benefits may be jeopardized.

Objective

Outline

Requirements

Prerequisites

Prerequisites:

To register for this course, you must be 18 years of age or older. You should be proficient in keyboarding (approximately 35 words per minute), have a basic understanding of a word-processing computer program (Microsoft Word is recommended), have a command of English grammar and punctuation, and have a basic understanding of high school math.

To participate in the competency activities and receive feedback from your instructor, you will need to have access to a video camera (on the phone or other device of familiarity) and be able to upload the video as an .mp4 file to the assignment pages for review. These activities are required in order to pass the course successfully.

Certification Requirements:

Reside in the United States of America or its territories (US)
Completion of a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program or equivalent Practicum Experience
Full disclosure of all criminal and State Board of Pharmacy registration or licensure actions
Compliance with all applicable PTCB Certification policies
Passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam® (PTCE®)

State Requirements:

You must ensure that the Pharmacy Technician Course meets your state's requirements. For more information, visit your state's Board of Pharmacy site or view a map directly from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) website. You can also call the state board and ask for the current technician regulations. This course does not meet state requirements for students intending to work in North Dakota, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. Please note that PTCB credentials are designed for use exclusively in the US. Therefore, PTCB exams are generally only administered in the US. Active members of the US military and their spouses are an exception and are eligible to test anywhere in the world.

Clinical Experience Requirements:

As a student in our Pharmacy Technician course, you'll have the opportunity to participate in our exclusive Clinical Experience, which provides a valuable advantage in today's competitive job market. Through our nationwide agreement with several pharmacies, you can gain hands-on experience and assist pharmacists with prescriptions, patient inquiries, and administrative tasks.

To qualify for the Clinical Experience, you will need to meet certain requirements, including passing a drug screening test, obtaining professional liability insurance, completing a background check and employment verification, meeting current immunization standards, and conforming with state mandates such as registration, fingerprinting, licensing, etc. Additional forms may be necessary for participation in the Clinical Experience with certain pharmacies. Please note that while we strive to find available openings, a Clinical Experience placement is not guaranteed for the Pharmacy Technician course and may take up to 12 weeks to secure. As a candidate, you should start applying for the PTBC Trainee License 2 weeks before you take the final exam in the course.

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Instructor

Melissa Dunworth

Melissa Dunworth has been a pharmacy technician for over 13 years and has worked in retail, closed pharmacy, and training/education areas during her career. Melissa holds a bachelor's degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences and works as a Developmental Specialist in Early Intervention for children ages 0 to 3 years. She has been a certified pharmacy technician since 1997. Melissa is also registered with the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy.

Betty Stahl

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.

Lorraine Zentz

Lorraine Zentz holds a bachelor's degree in science, with a focus on Biology and Chemistry, and a master's degree in education, specializing in Curriculum and Instruction. She is a licensed educator in Colorado for middle and high school science and math. Lorraine is the original author of the Cengage Pharmacy Technician Program and has facilitated students since 2003. With over 30 years of experience working in hospital pharmacies and a passion for teaching, she remains deeply committed to both fields.

Medical Terminology Instructors

Our medical terminology course section is taught by multiple experienced instructors. See here for a full list of these instructors.

FAQs

How much can I expect to make as a certified pharmacy technician?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average pharmacy technician salary is $40,300, with the highest 10% earning more than $57,130 per year.

What is a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians are critical members of the healthcare field who work alongside pharmacists in hospitals, drug and grocery stores, and other medical settings, where they help with the health and safety of customers—ensuring key medication-related duties are met and fulfilled.

What does a pharmacy technician do?

You will play an integral role in pharmacy operations as a pharmacy technician. Duties can include:

Assisting a pharmacist as they prepare and hand out prescription medication
Taking prescriptions, helping mix medicines, measuring medication, labeling medicines, and giving patients instructions for proper dosages and side effects
Taking payments and working with both health professionals and pharmacy customers daily.

Where can pharmacy technicians work?

Pharmacy technicians work in pharmacies. A pharmacy can be found in hospitals or healthcare facilities, drug and grocery stores, or may be independent.

What are some of the things that Pharmacy Technicians can't do inside the pharmacy?

Pharmacy technicians can't perform certain jobs without the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. They aren't allowed to make judgment calls related to drug substitutions, interpret prescriptions, or give instructions for preparing prescriptions. In most areas, they also can't take a chart order or a new prescription over the phone. They also can't dispense medication unless the order for the prescription has been verified by a pharmacist.

How do I become a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians must have a high school diploma or equivalent and understand how to perform the essential pharmacy duties. Candidates can complete a certificate or postsecondary program to gain the knowledge and skills they need. Some can even gain the training they need on the job; however, most states regulate pharmacy technicians and require that they pass an exam or complete a formal training program. To work as a pharmacy technician in most states, you will need to either be licensed or have a professional certificate.

How do I get a pharmacy tech license?

Not all states require a pharmacy tech license, so you should check your state's Board of Pharmacy website for more information. PTCB State Regulations

How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?

Many pharmacy technician programs can be completed in one year or less. This does not include the time you spend in a Clinical Experience program or preparing and sitting for state licensure.

How long does it take to complete pharmacy tech school?

Our Pharmacy Technician course is self-paced and completed in 12 months or less. As part of your program, you will also complete a 100-hour Clinical Experience if you qualify. Finally, you will receive a voucher as a part of your program to sit for your certification exam. Once you are certified, you'll have the qualifications you need to find an entry-level job in any pharmacy.

How do I go from pharmacy technician to pharmacist?

There are a few different ways to become a pharmacist after you gain experience working as a pharmacy technician. First, you will need to earn a bachelor's degree by earning an associate degree and rolling the credits into a 4-year program or enrolling directly into a pre-pharmacy bachelor's program. Second, after earning your bachelor's degree, you will need to take the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT). Your scores on this standardized test, along with previous contributions to the pharmacy industry (such as volunteer hours, membership in pharmacy organizations, and of course, working as a pharmacy technician), will be used to determine your acceptance to pharmacy school. Once accepted, you will attend school for another 4-5 years before taking and passing your state pharmacy board and law exams. Finally, your hard work will pay off, and you will be granted a license to practice as a pharmacist in your state.

Is there a demand for Pharmacy Technicians?

Yes, pharmacy technicians are currently in demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the jobs for pharmacy technicians will grow 7% by 2033, equating to 47,400 job openings annually. . Increased demand for prescription medications will be the primary driver of the growth in the number of positions. The BLS also suggests that people with formal training or certification will be more sought after to fill open positions.

What is a PTCB certification?

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) administers the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), which determines an individual's pharmacy technician knowledge. When you pass the exam, you become certified and may use the designation "CPhT". You will need to sit for the exam after this course; certification is not included. A voucher for the PTCE is included based on eligibility.

How can I find my state's requirements for certification?

Online is a great resource for finding your state's requirements for certification. All states have a website with the Board of Pharmacy information. You can access this information directly or view a map from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) website at www.ptcb.org. Click on the "states" link for information. You can also call the state board and ask for the current technician regulations. This course does not meet state requirements for students intending to work in North Dakota, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia.

What if my state requires more than what's offered in this course?

Most states still offer employment prior to certification. This often comes with the stipulation that certification is acquired within a period of time (usually a year). During this period, you'll work as an unlicensed personnel member, clerk, or aide. On-the-job training or Clinical Experiences are a great way to obtain the number of hours required (many states require a minimum number of hours worked before you can be registered or certified with the board). If your goal is to work in a hospital pharmacy, finding that job while you're still a student will help you reach your employment requirements, along with the educational clinical requirements.

What is a Clinical Experience?

A Clinical Experience is a practical training program that fulfills the clinical hour requirement of a course. This experience allows you to gain real-world experience in a setting aligned to the job description, working alongside licensed personnel and technicians. You will develop the skills and confidence needed to work effectively as a technician through experience. The Clinical Experience is optional and not required for final grading.

How do I apply for the Pharmacy Technician Clinical Experience?

Within the course, you will have the option to apply for an experience and will work with a coordinator to be placed once all eligibility requirements have been met. If you are interested in applying for the Clinical Experience in a local pharmacy that is not a CVS, you may discuss these and other options with your coordinator. Clinical Experiences are optional and based on availability. Due to the increase in confidentiality and privacy regulations and liability issues in relation to health information, Clinical Experiences are not guaranteed.

In addition, by state regulation, you may be required to apply for your pharmacy technician license or register with the State Board of Pharmacy before you can apply for the Clinical Experience. Please check the website for your state's Board of Pharmacy regulations and additional information. The state's Board of Pharmacy has the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Can I qualify for a Clinical Experience if I have a criminal record?

Unfortunately, you will not qualify for the Clinical Experience if you have a criminal record. While you can still enroll in the course, to participate in the Clinical Experience Program, you cannot have a criminal record. Background checks will be conducted prior to the student's admittance into the Clinical Experience Program.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

Yes, this course does prepare you for a certification. You will be prepared to sit for the National Certification exam titled Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Can I test-out of medical terminology content if I have previous knowledge of medical terminology?

Yes. This course includes two, optional, Test-Out Exam features that will allow you to test out of content and graded assessments if your score demonstrates the level of mastery required (80%). It does not count toward your overall score in this course if you do not achieve the minimum score required for mastery. Please note: Third party funded students may not be eligible.

Can I get financial assistance?

This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.

Can I register for courses if I am an international student?

Yes, ed2go courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification. Please note that PTCB credentials are designed for use exclusively in the US. Therefore, PTCB exams are generally only administered in the US. Active members of the US military and their spouses are an exception and are eligible to test anywhere in the world.

When can I start the course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

What kind of support will I receive?

The instructor will be available by email or the course Q&A feature to answer questions and provide feedback on your performance. Occasionally, your course may be supported by a team of industry experts. You will also receive support from the student advising team.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 12 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully completing the course and fulfilling the financial obligation, you'll be awarded a certificate of completion. In addition, you will receive an exam voucher to sit for the National Certification Exam which is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), offered by Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Am I guaranteed a job?

This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.

Reviews

I could complete it taking my own time as I had a lot of other things going on and definitely could fit this into my schedule by working around it.

I loved the online course with a busy schedule, it helped a lot. I had a great teacher.

I never thought I would be able to complete a course such as Pharmacy Technician online. At times the course became challenging, especially when it came to the calculations, but the books and CD's really explained the material thoroughly. Everyone from Central Michigan/Gatlin Education was extremely helpful and always responded back to me in a timely manner. I was encouraged throughout the course with positive and constructive feedback.

It was a great experience learning about the course. My facilitator was very supportive. I enjoyed the books because they were very informative and detailed.

I was able to study on my own time. I received support and answers to my questions and in a timely manner. For me, the online experience with this course went very smoothly. Thank you.

Being able to do the coursework at my own pace was the best part!

I just wanted to thank all of you for your course and the help you gave me throughout. I just passed my certification yesterday and I am looking forward to the future as a Pharmacy Technician.

My learning experience was awesome. My facilitator and student support personnel were obviously masters of their craft! The program was user-friendly and in real-time. I had big fun!

In general, I love learning. I got good feedback on all of my reports. The support that I received from Joshua (support staffer) went above and beyond my expectations.

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