Health Sciences Pharmacy Technician Program

Pharmacy technicians typically enter the field by earning a high school diploma, completing a training program, and meeting state or employer-specific certification requirements.¹ According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy techs start with a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some states and employers also require formal coursework, certification, or background checks. Enrolling in a structured pharmacy technician program can help you stand out from applicants who only meet the minimum education requirement. Learn more in How to Pursue Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in 5 Steps.

Apart from the on-site externship, the thing about online courses is that they enable you to fit your coursework into a flexible study schedule!^?

Certification for pharmacy technicians depends on state laws and employer requirements, and may be necessary to qualify for employment in certain areas. Every state regulates pharmacy technicians differently, and some employers require certification as part of the hiring process. To find your state’s certification rules, contact your local Board of Pharmacy. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy website has alist of Boards of Pharmacy by state. Also, always check with your prospective employer for their specific certification requirements, if any.

Pharmacy technician certification can be earned by passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) administers the PTCE exam, while the National Healthcareer Association administers the ExCPT exam. UMA’s program is designed to help learners prepare to sit for both the PTCE and ExCPT exams.³Learn more about the difference between certified and uncertified pharmacy techs.

he pharmacy technician program you choose should align with your career goals while offering the academic support, career assistance, and financial resource guidance you need. Choosing a school is a personal decision. Factors to consider include cost, curriculum quality, flexibility, and post-graduation support. UMA’s staff is available to help answer your questions and determine whether UMA is a good fit for you. Contact us online or give us a call and let’s chat about what you’re looking for in a pharmacy technician school.

Consider schools that go beyond coursework by offering externships, tech support, and career services. At UMA, students benefit from 24/7 tech support, career coaching, resume assistance, and access to a dedicated Learner Services team to help you overcome obstacles to graduation. These extras can make a big difference when pursuing a career path.

Most pharmacy technician training programs take under two years to complete and are followed by a certification exam.³ UMA’s Pharmacy Technician associate degree program can be completed in 18 months or more.² After graduation, learners may choose to sit for the PTCB’s PTCE certification exam or NHA’s ExCPT certification exam, depending on eligibility.³

Some pharmacy technician positions may be available to individuals without formal schooling, depending on state laws and employer requirements. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that while a high school diploma is the minimum, many states regulate pharmacy technicians, which may require completing a training or educational program.¹ Even if it’s not required, completing a program like UMA’s could help strengthen your qualifications.

Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES.org). ABHES is nationally recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education. Though UMA is not a university or college, we offer online diplomas and degrees as well as blended healthcare programs, some of which offer on-site externships/practicums and certification preparation — all intended to put you in a position to pursue a healthcare career after graduation.

Rolling admission means learners can enroll throughout the year without waiting for traditional application cycles. Instead, enrollment occurs continuously throughout the year, enabling you to pursue your healthcare education when you are ready. This is unlike a traditional higher education model where you apply and then wait until a certain date (that may only come once or twice a year) to learn whether you’ve been accepted. Instead, because new course sessions begin every few weeks, you can enroll when it’s right for you.