How Long Is Schooling for a Pharmacy Tech?

Pharmacy technicians are essential members of the healthcare team, working alongside pharmacists to ensure patients receive the right medications. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, you might be curious about the duration of the education and training required for this role. In this article, we’ll explore the typical length of schooling and the steps to become a pharmacy tech.

Educational Pathways for Pharmacy Technicians

To become a pharmacy technician, you’ll typically follow these steps:

1. High School Diploma or Equivalent (4 years):

The educational journey begins with a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED (General Educational Development) certificate. While in high school, consider taking courses in science, mathematics, and communication skills, as they will provide a solid foundation for your future pharmacy tech studies.

2. Pharmacy Technician Training Program (6 months to 2 years):

The primary route to becoming a pharmacy technician is to complete a pharmacy technician training program. These programs are offered by various institutions, including community colleges, vocational schools, and online education providers. The duration of these programs can vary:

• Certificate/Diploma Programs (6 months to 1 year): Shorter programs can provide the basic knowledge and skills needed to work as a pharmacy tech.
• Associate’s Degree Programs (2 years): Some individuals opt for associate’s degree programs in pharmacy technology, which offer a more comprehensive education and may include general education coursework.

During your pharmacy tech training, you’ll cover topics such as medication dosage calculations, pharmaceutical terminology, pharmacy operations, and ethics. You’ll also gain hands-on experience through practical training, where you’ll work in a pharmacy setting under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

3. State Certification (Varies):

In some states, pharmacy technicians are required to obtain certification or licensure. Certification is typically achieved by passing an exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). State requirements for certification and exams may vary, so it’s essential to check your state’s regulations.

4. Continuing Education (Optional):

Continuing education is not always mandatory for pharmacy technicians but can be beneficial for career advancement and staying updated on industry developments. Some pharmacy techs choose to pursue additional certifications or participate in continuing education programs.

Total Duration of Pharmacy Tech Schooling

In summary, the total duration of schooling to become a pharmacy technician can vary based on your chosen educational path and state requirements:

• Certificate/Diploma Program: 6 months to 1 year (plus certification exam, if required)
• Associate’s Degree Program: 2 years (plus certification exam, if required)

It’s important to note that the certification exam preparation and the time it takes to pass the exam can vary among individuals. Additionally, some pharmacy techs may choose to pursue additional certifications or participate in ongoing education to enhance their skills and career prospects.

Conclusion

Becoming a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding and accessible career path within the healthcare field. The duration of your education and training will depend on your chosen program and state requirements. Once you complete your training and, if required, pass the certification exam, you’ll be well-prepared to contribute to patient care and medication management in various healthcare settings.