How Long Does it Takes to Become a Pharmacy Technician?

by Fred Decker, Demand Media

Pharmacists work in a wide range of settings, from supermarkets to hospitals to military units in the field. Wherever pharmacists practice, pharmacy technicians work alongside them. Technicians perform duties that don't require a pharmacist's expertise, including receiving and verifying prescriptions, counting or preparing medications and even working the cash register in some retail settings. Training and licensure are not standardized from state to state, and programs vary in length.

On-the-Job Training

In states that don't require formal training for licensure, it's still possible to become a pharmacy technician through on-the-job training. Candidates must have the necessary math, computer and interpersonal skills to perform the job's duties under supervision. The pharmacist and more experienced pharmacy technicians provide mentoring and guidance, evaluating the trainee's performance on a regular basis and verifying the accuracy of his or her work. Training is complete when the technician has learned the profession well enough to pass the state's licensing examination.

Formal Training

Training programs in pharmacy technology are available from a wide range of vocational and community colleges, hospitals and university hospitals or for-profit vocational schools. Most require a high school diploma or GED as a prerequisite, and individual schools might have additional requirements. Programs range from as little as 15 weeks to as long as two years, awarding a certificate, diploma or associate degree. The program curriculum will include subjects such as the necessary mathematics for calculating dosages, a grounding in medical and pharmacological terminology, guidance on maintaining a sterile environment and basic computer skills. Most also include a practical internship in a pharmacy.

Certification and Licensure

Some states require pharmacy technicians to write a licensing examination, verifying their competency. Completion of a formal training program is required in some jurisdictions, while others permit on-the-job training. Certification is optional, though meeting a national certification standard can improve employment prospects and usually permits the technician to work in any state. Certification is available from a number of organizations, including the National Healthcareer Association and the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

Income and Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average income of $30,020 for pharmacy technicians in its May 2011 Occupational Employment Statistics. The lowest-earning 25 percent reported incomes of up to $23,940, while the highest-earning 25 percent earned $35,420 per year or higher. Their median income was $28,940 per year. The bureau projects that employment for pharmacy technicians will grow by 32 percent between 2010 and 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About the Author

Fred Decker is a trained chef and certified food-safety trainer who has written and blogged on food-related topics since 2007. Previously he sold computers, insurance and mutual funds. He is a former columnist for the Saint John, New Brunswick "Telegraph-Journal," and has been published in Canada's "Hospitality and Foodservice" magazine as well as online on many high-profile websites. Decker was educated at Memorial University of Newfoundland and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/ Images
Suggest an Article Correction

Have Feedback?
