12 Week 3 Month Pharmacy Technician Program Online

If you’re here, you might be wondering if becoming a Pharmacy Technician in 12 weeks is even possible.

We know it sounds crazy, but it’s absolutely possible!

In fact, you can get job-ready as a pharmacy technician in as little as 8 weeks.

But for that, you need to enroll in the right program.

In this article, we will talk about the ideal 8-week program that will help you get job-ready ASAP as a pharmacy technician, and will additionally help you fulfill the top 3 requirements you would need to become one.

Our Pick for 2024- The Best 12-Week Pharmacy Tech Training Program

Now that you know what to look for, you might be curious if a program that meets all these standards actually exists.

We’re here to tell you- it does!

We’re excited to introduce:

Preppy, the #1 Recommended Pharmacy Technician Training Certificate Program.

Preppy not only meets but exceeds all your expectations from an 8-week training program. (Yes, you can complete it in 8 weeks!)

Here’s how:

Firstly, Preppy’s program is in collaboration with an Accredited University, Auburn University, which is nationally recognized and offers a Certified Pharmacy Assistant Training Program.

Upon completion, you’ll receive a valuable Certificate of Completion from Auburn University, which will boost your resume and credibility with potential employers.

One of the key advantages of Preppy is its affordability, making it one of the most cost-effective options available, allowing you to avoid student loans or any other type of financial aid.

Also, Preppy’s program is entirely online and self-paced, providing high accessibility, and enabling you to attend classes from anywhere at your convenience.

Beyond comprehensive pharmacy technician training, covering topics like medical terms and drug dosage, Preppy prepares you for national certification exams such as those offered by PTCB or NHA, increasing your chances of success in the field.

What also sets Preppy apart is its flexibility, allowing you to complete your training in as little as 8 Weeks, which means quicker certification and entry into the workforce.

Additionally, Preppy offers externship opportunities, enabling you to gain practical experience and apply your knowledge in real-world settings before starting your professional career.

Enrolling in Preppy’s program includes a FREE LAPTOP, even after completing the training, as an added perk.

Plus, Preppy ensures continuous support throughout your journey, providing a dedicated Student Coordinator and 24×7 support available to assist you, even during weekends or late-night hours.

Sounds like THE ideal choice, right?

Want to Learn More About Preppy’s Online Pharmacy Tech Certificate Program? Click Here!

Why a 12-Week Program Makes Sense

Now, you might also be hesitant about whether a 12-week program will provide a suitable education, or what other benefits an accelerated program offers.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits-

1. Time Efficiency: Accelerated programs usually compress the coursework into a shorter timeframe, allowing students to complete their education and enter the workforce more quickly than traditional programs.

2. Fast Entry into the Job Market: Completing the program sooner means you can start your career as a pharmacy technician sooner, which can be beneficial for those wanting to start working and gaining experience in the field.

3. Focused Learning: Accelerated programs usually concentrate on essential skills and knowledge required for the pharmacy technician role, minimize any unnecessary coursework and focus on practical training.

4. Cost Savings: Shorter programs mean lower tuition costs and fewer additional expenses, such as housing and transportation.

5. Flexibility: Most accelerated programs offer flexible options, such as online training, allowing students to balance their education with work or other commitments.

3 Things You Need To Become a Pharmacy Technician

Let us now delve a bit deeper into what it takes to become a Pharmacy Technician.

There are three main pillars of requirements to become a successful Pharm Tech, training, certification, and experience.

Let’s take a look at them in detail:

• Training:

Proper training is essential for aspiring pharmacy technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary for the role. This training usually covers various aspects, including pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, medication dispensing procedures, inventory management, and customer service.

Training programs can vary in length and format, ranging from formal education at accredited colleges to online training to on-the-job training provided by pharmacies or vocational schools.

• Certification:

Certification is another essential step in becoming a pharmacy technician. While requirements may differ by state or country, most jurisdictions require pharmacy technicians to obtain certification from a recognized certifying body, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Certification exams assess candidates’ knowledge and skills in areas such as pharmacy laws and regulations, medication safety, and pharmacology. Obtaining certification demonstrates competency and professionalism, making candidates more attractive to employers and enhancing their career prospects.

• Experience:

Hands-on experience is invaluable for pharmacy technicians to apply their training and certification in real-world settings. Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience working in a pharmacy or healthcare setting, as it demonstrates familiarity with pharmacy operations, medication management systems, and patient interactions.

Pharmacy technician externships, internships, or entry-level positions offer opportunities for individuals to gain practical experience under the supervision of licensed pharmacists. Building a solid foundation of experience not only enhances job readiness but also enhances career advancement opportunities within the field.

This is why we recommend Preppy’s program, since it fulfils the top 3 requirements, and provides much more.

Different Pharmacy Technician Training Programs

When it comes to pharmacy technician programs, there’s a range of options out there.

Some are more intensive and might take a bit longer to finish, while others are designed to get you certified in a shorter time.

The cost of these programs can vary based on factors like how long they take and whether they’re accredited.

Let’s take a look at the three routes you can take to complete your Pharm Tech training:

• Associate Degree from a technical university – ranging from $15,000 to $20,000.
• Diploma Programs from community or vocational schools – ranging from $5,000 to $8,000.
• Online programs (accelerated) – under $2,000.

Now, why do people lean towards accelerated programs? Well, they’re perfect if you’re eager to get into the workforce sooner rather than later.

With an accelerated program, you can jumpstart your career faster and potentially start earning sooner too.

Plus, they often offer more flexible schedules, which is great if you’ve got other commitments.

So, if you’re looking to kickstart your pharmacy tech career without waiting around and spending good money on tuition, an accelerated program might be the way to go.

How to Choose the Right Program?

This is a common dilemma faced by aspiring pharmacy technicians, and we understand the confusion with the amount of information floating around.

Let us simplify a bit for you.

Choosing the right program as a busy adult can seem daunting, but it’s all about finding the right fit for your lifestyle and career goals.

Here’s what you should ideally look for in a program:

• Online and Self-Paced: Look for programs that offer online courses and self-paced learning. This flexibility allows you to study whenever and wherever works best for you, fitting your education around your busy schedule.
• Accelerated Options: Consider accelerated programs that condense the coursework into a shorter timeframe. These programs are ideal for busy adults who want to fast-track their education and enter the workforce sooner
• Industry Recognition:  Choose a program that is recognized by industry professionals and accrediting authorizations. Accredited programs often meet higher standards of quality and are often preferred by employers.
• Student Support: Look for programs that offer good student support services, that can help you every step of the way. This could include access to tutors, academic advisors, and career services to help you succeed academically and professionally.
• Cost Considerations: Compare the costs of different programs, taking into account tuition fees, textbooks, and any additional expenses. While affordability is important, prioritize the value and quality of education offered by the program.

An ideal program should have most, if not all, of the above-mentioned criteria. This is why Preppy is our top pick for 2024 since their program takes care of everything and more.

Common Myth- Pharmacy Technician Certificate vs Certification

Another common confusion among aspiring pharmacy technicians is the difference between a certificate and a certification.

Are they the same?

Do we require both or just one of them is enough?

Well, to answer briefly, even though they sound similar, a pharmacy technician certificate and a pharmacy technician certification are two different credentials, and yes, usually you would require them both.

Let’s take a look at the difference between the two.

A pharmacy technician certificate is like a diploma you receive after completing a training program. It’s proof that you’ve finished the coursework required to work as a pharmacy technician.

Certification, on the other hand, is more official. It’s like getting a license to practice as a pharmacy technician.

To become certified, you need to meet certain requirements, like completing an accredited training program and passing an exam administered by organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Being certified shows that you have the knowledge and skills to do the job well. It can boost your resume, increase your job opportunities, and often comes with higher pay.

So, while a certificate proves you’ve completed training, certification proves you’re qualified to work as a pharmacy technician.

Top Skills You Need as a Pharmacy Technician

As for any profession, there are certain sets of skills required and expected from budding professionals to incorporate to be successful in their fields.

Similarly, as a pharmacy technician, there are several key skills that can help you succeed in your role, such as:

• Attention to Detail: Accuracy is essential when handling medications and processing prescriptions. Paying close attention to detail helps prevent errors and ensures patient safety.
• Strong Communication: Effective communication skills are essential for interacting with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Clear communication helps convey important information and ensures smooth workflow in the pharmacy.
• Organizational Skills: Pharmacy technicians often have to multitask and manage various responsibilities simultaneously. Strong organizational skills help prioritize tasks, maintain inventory, and ensure efficient pharmacy operations.
• Technical Proficiency: Pharmacy technicians use specialized software and equipment to process prescriptions, manage inventory, and communicate with healthcare providers. Being comfortable with technology and willing to learn new systems is important in this role.
• Mathematical Aptitude: Basic math skills are essential for calculating medication dosages, compounding medications, and processing insurance claims accurately. A solid understanding of arithmetic is important for performing these tasks safely and efficiently.
• Adaptability: The pharmacy environment can be fast-paced and dynamic, with priorities shifting frequently. Pharmacy technicians should be flexible and adaptable, able to quickly adjust to changes and handle unexpected situations with ease.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the right pharmacy technician program depends on your goals and circumstances.

Whether you opt for an accelerated program or pursue certification, consider factors like format, cost, and career readiness.

Pharmacy Technician FAQs

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to assist in pharmacy operations. Their responsibilities typically include preparing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, processing prescriptions, and providing customer service to patients. Pharmacy technicians play an important role in supporting pharmacists and ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of medications to patients.

Is Pharmacy Tech a good career?

Yes, pharmacy technician is a promising career choice. It offers stable job prospects, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on patient care. The pay for pharmacy technicians is also great, with an annual average income of $37,790. With the growing demand for healthcare services, especially in the pharmaceutical sector, pharmacy technicians can expect steady employment and competitive salaries.

Is Pharmacy Tech school hard?

Pharmacy technician school can be challenging, but it’s manageable with dedication and effort. The coursework usually covers a range of subjects, including pharmacology, medication dispensing, and pharmacy law, which may require focused study and understanding. However, with effective time management, and support from instructors and peers, students can successfully navigate the program and prepare for a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician.

Can you become a pharmacy technician in 4 weeks?

No, becoming a pharmacy technician in 4 weeks is not possible. Even though an accelerated program might seem appealing in terms of course duration and even costs, you need to also consider the credibility of the course and whether it provides the necessary experience.

Can you become a pharmacy technician in 8 weeks?

Yes, becoming a pharmacy technician in 8 weeks is definitely possible. However, you will need to enroll in a program that not only prepares your for the career but also for the PTCB certification exam.

Related Resources:

• What is a Pharmacy Technician
• How To Become a Pharmacy Technician Without Going To School
• Pharmacy Technician Programs