Pharmacy Tech Program: In this course, you’ll explore the goals and values of Ashworth College, time management, and how to create a realistic weekly and monthly study schedule. You’ll also learn about the nature and purpose of assessments, effective study techniques for online examinations, and the essential skill sets for success in the twenty-first century. Additionally, you’ll discover various allied health career options and gain the knowledge needed to be ethical, professional, and successful in those roles.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:
- Identify skills needed to be a confident and independent online learner.
- Differentiate between the various available allied health professions.
- Describe the legal and ethical issues that arise when working in a healthcare facility.
Prerequisites and Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require students to have completed high school or possess an equivalent certification.
- Background Check and Drug Screening: Many programs require a clean background check and drug screening due to the nature of the work in healthcare.
- Prerequisite Courses: Some programs may require the completion of basic courses in subjects like math, chemistry, and biology.
Core Curriculum
- Pharmacy Fundamentals: Introduction to the pharmacy profession, roles and responsibilities of a pharmacy tech Program, and the history of pharmacy.
- Pharmacology: Study of drugs, their classifications, effects on the human body, and mechanisms of action.
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Overview of federal and state laws governing pharmacy practice, ethical considerations, and patient confidentiality.
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Math skills required for accurately dispensing medications, including dosage calculations, compounding, and conversions.
- Pharmacy Practice: Practical skills for assisting pharmacists, including prescription processing, labeling, packaging, and inventory management.
- Medical Terminology: Understanding medical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the pharmacy setting.
Laboratory and Practical Training
- Simulation Labs: Hands-on practice in a controlled environment, using simulated pharmacy equipment and scenarios.
- Compounding Labs: Training in the preparation of customized medications, including sterile and non-sterile compounding techniques.
Externships and Clinical Rotations
- On-the-Job Training: Real-world experience in various pharmacy settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
- Supervised Practice: Working under the supervision of licensed pharmacists to gain practical experience and apply theoretical knowledge.
Certification Exam Preparation
- Review Courses: Focused review sessions covering key topics and competencies required for certification exams such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
- Mock Exams: Practice exams to simulate the certification test experience and identify areas needing improvement.
Professional Development
- Career Planning: Guidance on job search strategies, resume writing, and interview skills.
- Continuing Education: Information on the importance of ongoing education and opportunities for advanced certifications and specializations.
Graduation Requirements
- Completion of Coursework: Successful completion of all required courses with passing grades.
- Clinical Hours: Fulfillment of required externship or clinical rotation hours.
- Capstone Project: Some programs may require a final project or comprehensive exam demonstrating mastery of program content.
Optional Specializations
- Advanced Compounding: Additional training in complex compounding techniques.
- Hospital Pharmacy: Specialized courses focusing on the unique aspects of working in a hospital setting.
- Nuclear Pharmacy: Training in handling and preparing radioactive medications.
- By completing these components, students are well-prepared to enter the workforce as competent and knowledgeable pharmacy technicians, ready to assist pharmacists and contribute to patient care.
Training for pharmacy tech
GPHC Revalidation Requirements
Pharmacy professionals are required by the GPHC to demonstrate that they continually update their knowledge and skills to maintain and improve their practice.
Support for Developing Patient Consultation Skills
The Consultation Skills for Pharmacy Practice website guides you through a learning pathway to enhance your patient consultation skills. This is part of a national training and development program recognizing the need for pharmacy professionals to engage more closely with patients to optimize medicine use and deliver public health messages.
Additional Training Resources
Pharmacy Integration Fund Training: Pharmacy technicians in community pharmacy settings can access training funded by the Pharmacy Integration Fund. These courses are developed by Health Education England in collaboration with APTUK, NHS England, and other key stakeholders.
APTUK: The professional body for pharmacy technicians in the UK, APTUK offers advice, information, and support on practice, education, and revalidation. More details can be found on the Resources page.
Royal Pharmaceutical Society: Offers numerous resources, including freely available materials in the ultimate guides and hubs section, accessible even to non-members.
eLearning for Healthcare: Provides a wide variety of online e-learning courses for all healthcare staff.
Future Learn: Offers free online courses covering a wide range of topics from science and innovation to health, diseases, and patient care.
Genomics Education and Training Program: Provides specialized education and training in genomics.
Pharmacy Tech Program cost
The cost of a Pharmacy Tech Program can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of institution offering the program, the program’s length and format, and any additional resources or materials included. Here’s a detailed breakdown of potential costs:
Type of Institution:
Community Colleges: Typically, these programs are more affordable, with costs ranging from $500 to $5,000. In-state residents often benefit from lower tuition rates compared to out-of-state students.
Vocational Schools and Technical Institutes: These specialized schools may charge between $1,000 and $10,000 for a Pharmacy Tech Program, depending on the comprehensiveness of the training and any included certifications.
Universities: Programs offered by universities may be more expensive, with tuition ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, particularly if they offer extensive training and advanced certifications.
Program Length and Format:
- Short-Term Certificate Programs: These programs, often lasting a few months, can cost between $500 and $2,000. They are designed to provide quick entry into the workforce.
- Diploma Programs: Typically lasting six months to a year, these programs may cost from $2,000 to $10,000, offering a more in-depth education and training.
- Associate Degree Programs: Usually lasting two years, these comprehensive programs can range from $5,000 to $20,000, providing a thorough education that may include general education courses alongside specialized pharmacy training.
Online vs. In-Person Programs:
Online Programs: Often more affordable due to lower overhead costs, online programs can range from $500 to $8,000. They offer flexibility for students who may be working or have other commitments.
In-Person Programs: These may be more expensive, costing between $1,000 and $15,000, due to the need for physical facilities, lab equipment, and on-site instructors.
Additional Costs:
- Books and Supplies: Depending on the program, you may need to budget an additional $200 to $1,000 for textbooks, lab supplies, and other materials.
- Certification Exam Fees: The cost to sit for certification exams, such as the ExCPT or PTCE, is generally not included in tuition and can range from $100 to $200 per exam.
- Uniforms and Lab Coats: Some programs require specific uniforms or lab coats, which can add another $50 to $100 to your expenses.
- Externship Costs: While many programs include externships in their tuition, some may charge additional fees for placement or require you to cover associated costs such as travel or insurance.
Financial Aid and Scholarships:
Many institutions offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to help manage the cost of the program. Federal financial aid may be available for accredited programs, and there are numerous scholarships specifically for healthcare and pharmacy tech students.
By considering these factors, prospective students can better understand the potential costs and budget accordingly. Investing in a Pharmacy Tech Program can lead to a fulfilling career with numerous opportunities for advancement in the healthcare field.
Online Pharmacy Tech Program
As pharmacists take on more responsibilities, such as administering vaccinations, skilled pharmacy technicians will be needed to perform important duties. Day-to-day, pharmacy technicians are responsible for filling prescriptions, checking inventory and ordering supplies as necessary, and working directly with patients to ensure they receive the proper medications and understand any side effects.
Through Ashworth’s online Pharmacy Tech Program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of being a pharmacy technician and build the skills you’ll need to be successful on the job. In self-paced, flexible courses, you’ll cover pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, and more while preparing to sit for the National Health Career Association’s Except Pharmacy Technician certification exam and the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam. You’ll also have an opportunity to apply what you learn to real-world situations through an externship with partners such as Walgreens and CVS/Pharmacy.
Online Pharmacy Technician Training Curriculum
Our self-paced, online Pharmacy Tech Training Program, designed by experienced professionals, prepares you to become a certified pharmacy technician. Throughout the courses, you’ll develop essential skills for the job and prepare for industry certification. Your online pharmacy technician courses include:
Drug Classification and Pharmaceutical Calculations
Pharmacology
Community and Hospital Pharmacy Practice
Laboratory Simulation and Certification Preparation
FAQ
What is a Pharmacy Tech Program?
A Pharmacy Tech Program is an educational course designed to train individuals to become pharmacy technicians, providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills to assist pharmacists and ensure efficient pharmacy operations.
What topics are covered in a Pharmacy Tech Program?
Topics typically include drug classification, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacology, community and hospital pharmacy practice, and laboratory simulations.
How long does it take to complete a Pharmacy Tech Program?
The duration of a Pharmacy Tech Program can vary but generally ranges from a few months to a year, depending on whether the program is full-time, part-time, or self-paced.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a Pharmacy Tech Program?
Most programs require a high school diploma or GED. Some may also require a background check or previous coursework in math and science.
Is the Pharmacy Tech Program offered online or in-person?
Pharmacy Tech Programs are available both online and in-person, allowing students to choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences.
What certifications can I obtain after completing a Pharmacy Tech Program?
After completing the program, students are often eligible to sit for certification exams such as the ExCPT (offered by the National Healthcareer Association) and the PTCE (offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board).
What kind of support is available during the Pharmacy Tech Program?
Students typically have access to academic advisors, instructors, and sometimes online resources or discussion forums to help them succeed in their studies.
Are there hands-on training opportunities in a Pharmacy Tech Program?
Many programs include externships or practical lab simulations, often in partnership with pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS, to provide real-world experience.
How much does a Pharmacy Tech Program cost?
The cost varies widely depending on the institution, program length, and format. It can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
What career opportunities are available after completing a Pharmacy Tech Program?
Graduates can pursue careers as pharmacy technicians in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies.
Conclusion
Embarking on a Pharmacy Tech Program is a significant step towards a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. These programs are meticulously designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel as a pharmacy technician. From understanding drug classifications and pharmaceutical calculations to gaining hands-on experience through externships, the comprehensive training ensures you are well-prepared for industry certification and real-world challenges.
Whether you choose an online or in-person format, the flexibility and support offered by these programs allow you to learn at your own pace and convenience. Completing a Pharmacy Tech Program opens the door to numerous career opportunities in various healthcare settings, positioning you as a vital member of the healthcare team. With the growing demand for skilled pharmacy technicians, now is the perfect time to invest in your education and advance your career in this dynamic field.
