According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), employers look positively on applicants who have received training from pharmacy tech schools. Such employees are desirable because they come prepared with knowledge and skills and thus, do not require employers to spend resources on training them. Pharmacy technician schools can increase your job prospects and help you better prepare to work and succeed in any setting – at a drugs store, in a hospital, or elsewhere.
Basics of Pharmacy Technician Programs
Pharmacy tech training is usually available at local vocational or technical schools. Some community colleges, hospitals and proprietary schools, also offer pharmacy technician classes. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that programs can take anywhere between six months to two years to complete. Some academic institutions award associate degrees upon completion of studies. Others give certificates. If your area does not have a program that meets your needs, consider distance learning by enrolling in an online pharmacy technician school.
Training is normally divided into two main parts: classes and laboratory work. Many programs also include on-site internships. Internships allow students to experience real-life work challenges and obtain work skills first hand. Find out more details on pharmacy technician classes, laboratory work, and internships.
Cost & Financial Resources – Pharmacy Technician Schools
Higher education degree and certificate programs are investments that often require financial resources. The cost of pharmacy technician programs varies from institution to institution. As you decide on a school, consider your goals and options: Do you want a certificate or an associate degree? An associate degree usually means a bigger investment of time and money. An associate degree from a pharmacy technician school can take up to two years to complete and will most likely cost more than a certificate program. Ask your school for information on financial aid and student loans. If you are already working as a pharmacy technician or assistant, check with your employer about tuition reimbursement possibilities. Some employers have programs to help current employees shoulder the cost of pharmacy tech training.
Before you enroll in a school or program, take some time to research. There are a number of factors to consider: location, cost and financial aid, schedule of classes and labs, internship opportunities, availability of post graduation job placement assistance, etc. If possible, get in touch with someone who has completed the same or a similar program. Research can lead to a pharmacy technician school that fits your needs and goals.
Sources:
“Pharmacy Technicians and Assistants,” U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
“Pharmacy Technicians and Aides,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
