Discover How to Earn Your Pharmacy Tech License Online

Detailing Pharmacy Tech Classes Online

Online pharmacy tech classes appeal to many learners as they allow students to work toward their education while maintaining flexibility and balance within their personal, professional, and academic lives. Unlike other academic paths that only culminate in formal degrees, prospective pharmacy tech students can choose between three different options: courses, certificates, and associate degrees. Depending on your career goals, one of these options will be a better fit than the others. While certificate programs may offer the most direct path to an immediate career, an associate degree is better suited for those with aspirations to become a pharmacist or take on a more senior-level role. No matter the option, students can expect a curriculum that blends online learning with in-person externships at a local pharmacy site.

Answers to Common Pharmacy Tech Student Questions

From course requirements to how clinical training works, it’s likely that you have a few key questions you’re looking to get answered before ultimately pursuing your pharmacy tech education. We answered some of the most common questions that students just like yourself have.

Is pharmacy tech a good career choice?

Becoming a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding career choice, but like any path, it depends on your goals. If you’re drawn to healthcare but prefer a behind-the-scenes role, this profession offers a fulfilling way to help patients. The field provides stability and growth potential, with demand for pharmacy techs steadily increasing. It can also be a stepping stone to advancing as a pharmacist. Plus, it’s a great option if you want to start quickly without significantly investing time or money in education.

What is the highest level of education for a pharmacy technician?

The highest level of education for a pharmacy technician is typically an associate degree, but ultimately depends on your personal career goals and state requirements. While you can start with a high school diploma and complete a certification program, pursuing an associate degree in pharmacy tech will give you more advanced knowledge and career opportunities. This can be helpful if you’re aiming for specialized roles or management positions. However, pharmacy techs don’t require a bachelor’s or advanced degree, but these are options if growing or pivoting your career is desirable.

What are the four different levels of pharmacy technicians?

Pharmacy technicians can advance through various levels based on their training and experience. Most begin as entry-level pharmacy technicians, gaining foundational skills through on-the-job training or a college course. The next step is earning certification as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) by passing an exam like the PTCB, which demonstrates professional expertise. Advanced pharmacy technicians represent the third level, specializing in areas such as sterile compounding or informatics. The highest level is the lead pharmacy technician, who oversees training, manages inventory, and may handle specialized operations. Each level builds on the last, offering opportunities for growth and leadership.

What are the three specialty certifications a pharmacy technician may earn?

Three popular specialty certifications a pharmacy technician may earn are sterile compounding, medication therapy management, and hazardous drug management. A sterile compounding certification is ideal for those interested in preparing medications like IVs or injections in sterile environments like hospitals and clinicals. The medical therapy management certification is best for those who want to work directly with pharmacists, optimizing medication use and improving patient outcomes. Finally, the hazardous drug management certification prepares students to handle and safely manage hazardous drugs in high-risk treatments, like chemotherapy.

What are the benefits of being a certified pharmacy technician?

There are several key benefits to becoming a certified pharmacy technician. First off, certification demonstrates your expertise and professionalism, making you a stronger candidate for jobs and increasing your earning potential. Employers often prefer or require certified technicians, as it shows you meet industry standards and are prepared to handle critical tasks like dispensing medication and managing inventory. Certification can also open doors to advanced roles, such as specialized pharmacy areas or supervisory positions. Additionally, it provides opportunities for professional growth and continuing education, keeping your skills sharp. Overall, being certified enhances your career stability, credibility, and long-term opportunities in the field.

Tuition & Fees for Online Pharmacy Tech Classes

One concern nearly every student shares, regardless of their field of study, is how to afford school. While pharmacy tech programs are generally more affordable than degree programs in other fields, tuition and fees can still add up – especially if unexpected costs arise after enrollment. To help you estimate the cost of your online pharmacy tech education, the table below compares tuition and fees for five different programs. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the final cost will depend on financial aid offered through the school and whether you’re able to secure any external funding, like scholarships.

Ranking Today’s Best Online Pharmacy Tech Classes

With so many online pharmacy tech schools now available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices. To help, we’ve identified the best schools and programs for aspiring pharmacy technicians looking for a flexible and affordable higher education. The following schools represent some of the best programs available, with the accreditation you need to begin a rewarding career as a pharmacy tech. See who is leading the way.

Pharmacy Tech Certification Requirements

Certification is a vital step for pharmacy technicians, demonstrating their knowledge, skills, and commitment to professionalism in the field. While not always required, certification is increasingly preferred by employers and can make candidates more competitive in the job market. To become certified, pharmacy techs typically need to pass an exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Certified pharmacy technicians (CPhTs) are trusted to perform critical tasks, including accurately preparing prescriptions, managing inventory, and supporting pharmacists in patient care. Certification also opens doors to specialized roles, higher pay, and career advancement opportunities. Additionally, it ensures pharmacy techs are well-versed in safety protocols and legal regulations, reducing errors and improving patient outcomes.

Certification can be a valuable investment for aspiring pharmacy techs, enhancing their credibility and career prospects, all while providing a strong foundation for success in the field.

Salary & Career Outlook for Pharmacy Techs