Are you interested in becoming a pharmacy technician and starting a rewarding career in healthcare? If so, you’re entering the field at a pivotal moment. With massive shifts happening in the pharmacy industry, opportunities for pharmacy technicians are more abundant than ever. However, many people make costly mistakes when starting their journey, wasting time and money and ending up frustrated. This guide provides an honest blueprint to start and to become a pharmacy tech in 2025.
Why Pharmacy Technicians Are in High Demand
The demand for pharmacy technicians is at an all-time high. According to the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), 67% of pharmacies are struggling to fill open positions, and 76% report pharmacy technicians as the most difficult roles to fill. This is not just a temporary trend; the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 47,400 job openings per year over the next decade for this profession.
Pharmacy technicians earn competitive wages, with an average hourly rate of around $20. The career offers flexibility, allowing you to work in settings such as:
- Community pharmacies
- Hospitals
- Retail chains
- Specialized pharmacy environments
If you’re wondering whether now is the right time to pursue this career, the answer is a resounding yes.
Key Requirements to Become a Pharmacy Tech
While demand is high, you can’t simply walk into a pharmacy and start working. There are three critical requirements:
- Proper Training: Employers look for pharmacy techs who are well-trained and can hit the ground running.
- Certification: Most employers require pharmacy technicians to hold a recognized certification.
- Experience: Gaining hands-on experience is invaluable and can set you apart from other candidates.
Understanding Certification
Certification is essential for pharmacy technicians. According to industry data, 85% of employers require certification. However, there is often confusion between completing a training program and obtaining certification. Here’s the distinction:
- Training Program Certificate: Issued upon completing a formal training program.
- Certification: Awarded after passing a standardized exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
Your pharmacy tech training program should prepare you for both the role and the certification exam, ensuring you’re job-ready and confident.
Training Pathways for Aspiring Pharmacy Technicians
There are three main pathways to obtaining the necessary training:
Option 1: On-Campus College Programs
This traditional route involves attending a college or university for pharmacy tech training. While these programs often carry prestige, they come with significant drawbacks:
- Cost: Tuition can exceed $10,000.
- Duration: Programs typically take 9-12 months to complete.
- Rigidity: Classes are held on-campus, requiring a consistent schedule that can disrupt your personal and professional life.
However, some programs provide a university certificate, which can enhance your resume and build credibility in the healthcare industry.
Option 2: On-the-Job Training
Some pharmacies offer on-the-job training, allowing you to learn as you work. While this option might seem appealing, it has significant limitations:
- Limited Availability: These positions are becoming harder to find as most pharmacies prefer pre-trained candidates.
- Certification Requirement: Even if hired, you’ll likely need to pass the PTCB exam on your own.
- Knowledge Gaps: On-the-job training may not cover essential topics like advanced pharmaceutical calculations, modern pharmacy software, and insurance protocols.
Option 3: Online Programs or Local Classes
Online pharmacy tech programs offer convenience and affordability, but not all programs are created equal. Many budget-friendly options cut corners, such as:
- Lack of accreditation
- Inadequate preparation for the PTCB exam
- Rigid schedules through Zoom classes
When selecting an online program, prioritize one that is accredited, flexible, and thorough.
A Revolutionary New Approach: Preppy’s Online Pharmacy Technician Training Program
For those looking for a fast, affordable, and comprehensive training solution, the Preppy Pharmacy Technician Program stands out. Designed to solve the common issues with traditional training methods, this program offers:
- Flexible Scheduling: Training is 100% online and self-paced. Whether you’re a night owl or an early riser, you can study on your schedule.
- Accreditation: Preppy partners with a prestigious, nonprofit, accredited university. Upon completion, you’ll receive a university certificate, boosting your credibility.
- Certification Preparation: The program prepares you thoroughly for the PTCB certification exam with interactive quizzes and up-to-date course material.
- Accelerated Timeline: You can complete the program in as little as 6-8 weeks, compared to months for other options.
- Affordable Pricing: At just $1,599, Preppy offers exceptional value, with no hidden fees. Flexible payment plans are also available.
- Externship Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience at a local pharmacy through an externship coordinated by Preppy.
- Job Assistance: Upon completing the program, Preppy provides resume guidance, interview preparation, and job placement support.
Why Preppy Stands Out
Preppy addresses the five critical challenges faced by aspiring pharmacy techs:
- Schedule Problem: Fully online and self-paced.
- Credibility Problem: Accredited training with a university certificate.
- Certification Problem: Comprehensive PTCB exam preparation.
- Time Problem: Complete the program in weeks, not months.
- Cost Problem: Affordable pricing with no hidden fees.
Bonus: Free Laptop Offer
For a limited time, Preppy is offering a free laptop to students who enroll. This ensures you have the tools you need to succeed.
How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in 2025 – Take the First Step Today
Imagine yourself a few months from now, confidently starting your new career as a certified pharmacy technician. With Preppy, you can make that vision a reality!
Also read: How to Get Medical Assistant Training With a Full-Time Job
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
Time is money. Instead of programs that could take 2 years, Preppy provides you education in a few months through immersive online training.
Healthcare, IT, Business, Trades…Preppy gets you ready for the trending careers in our modern economy.
Our team of higher education and startup veterans have created the best solution so everyone can obtain the emerging careers of today and tomorrow.
We look forward to speaking with you. You may also call 800-729-1317.
