There’s no shortage of pharmacies in need of skilled pharmacy technicians! This 100% online course will prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) National Certification exam and help you complete an externship with a leading pharmacy chain.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for pharmacy technicians will grow 8% through 2032 – that equates to over 30,000 new jobs!
The BLS notes that on average, pharmacy technicians earn an annual salary of $32,700. Top earners can make up to $47,000 per year.
Develop the knowledge and skills to excel as a pharmacy technician and perform all related tasks and responsibilities with confidence.
Gain practical knowledge of medication processing and handling procedures including the ability to identify medication orders and read prescription forms accurately.
Learn federal and state laws that govern pharmacies, as well as the ethics of pharmacy practice.
Be fully prepared to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB, and earn your Certified Pharmacy Technician(CPht) credential.
Become eligible for a 100+hour practicum experience to further enhance your professional skills
There are no prerequisites to take this course. However, the externship requires that you have a high school diploma and be at least 18 years old.
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 0to 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.
This is a self-paced course that can be completed 100% online. Open enrollment means you can start anytime.
Pharmacy technicians order and stock medications, prepare medications for distribution and provide information to patients. Pharmacy technicians may perform many of the same duties as a pharmacist; however, their work must be approved by a pharmacist before medication can be dispensed.
Requirements for pharmacy technicians vary by state, but most require certification, registration or licensure. Earning your certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) provides a valuable, industry-recognized credential that meets most states’ requirements.
This pharmacy technician course can be completed in one year or less. This does not include the time you spend in an externship program or preparing and sitting for state licensure.
As the population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases rises, more pharmacy technicians will be needed in pharmacies and may even see themselves taking on greater responsibilities in their role.
Orientation to Pharmacy
History, foundations and role of the pharmacy technician in today’s healthcare system
Pharmacy Law and Ethics
Introduction to law, liability and federal regulations of controlled substances
Pharmaceutical Calculations
Basic, community and institutional pharmacy math to calculate dosages and dilutions
Pharmacology
The science of pharmacology, evolution of drugs and administration of pharmacological agents
Communication Skills
Verbal and non-verbal methods, HIPAA regulations
Insurance and Inventory Procedures
Cost analysis, purchasing procedures and record keeping
Lab Module
Interactive lab for the retail and hospital settings
Clinical Rotations
Virtual externship in the retail and hospital settings
Final Exam
Final comprehensive exam to qualify for externship
This is a self-paced course that can be completed 100% online. Open enrollment means you can start anytime.
