Q: Do pharmacy techs go to school?
A: The educational path for pharmacy technicians is flexible, but formal education is becoming increasingly common and is required by many employers. There are three main pathways to qualify: completing a formal training program, undergoing on-the-job training, or a combination of both. All pathways require passing a certification exam in most states.
Q: What are the formal education options?
A:
- Postsecondary Certificate/Diploma Programs: These are the most common formal route. They are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and some hospitals, typically taking 9 months to 1 year to complete.
- Associate Degree Programs: Offered primarily by community colleges, these take 2 years and include general education courses alongside pharmacy tech training. This can provide a broader foundation for career advancement.
- Curriculum Content: Accredited programs cover key areas such as pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, medication names and uses, sterile compounding, and pharmacy operations.
Q: Is a formal program required to become certified?
A: No, but it is strongly recommended. To become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) via the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), you must satisfy one of these requirements:
- Complete a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program (e.g., a formal certificate or degree program), OR
- Have equivalent work experience (at least 500 hours).
The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) also offers certification (ExCPT) and has its own education or experience prerequisites.
Q: What does on-the-job training involve?
A: Some retail pharmacies or hospitals may hire individuals with a high school diploma and provide internal training. This path involves:
- Learning directly under a supervising pharmacist and experienced technicians.
- Mastering tasks like dispensing, data entry, and inventory management through hands-on practice.
- Studying independently to pass the required certification exam(s) for the state.
Q: Which path is better for career advancement?
A: Completing a formal, accredited education program is highly advantageous for several reasons:
- Easier Certification Eligibility: It automatically satisfies the education requirement for the PTCB exam.
- Stronger Job Prospects: Graduates are often preferred by employers, especially in competitive settings like hospitals.
- Comprehensive Foundation: Programs provide structured, in-depth knowledge of theory, law, and advanced skills (like sterile compounding) that may not be covered thoroughly in retail on-the-job training.
- Pathway to Higher Pay and Specialization: Formal education better prepares you for specialized roles in IV rooms, chemotherapy, or nuclear pharmacy, which command higher salaries.
Q: What is the final, mandatory step regardless of the educational path?
A: In nearly all states, you must pass a national certification exam (like the PTCE from PTCB or the ExCPT from NHA) and obtain a state license or registration to practice legally.
For guidance on choosing and preparing for professional training and certification programs, you can explore resources at certilyst.com.