If you want to become a Pharmacy Technician, you’re probably asking yourself some key questions. Is a Pharmacy Technician a good career choice? Is it a stable career? Does it offer good pay?
These are essential things to consider before stepping into the field, and the answers could shape your entire career path.
So, in this article, we’ll break it all down, whether pharmacy tech is a good career, what makes it worth considering, and what you should know before making your decision.
Plus, we’ll explore how you can start this career faster, without attending college for years or taking on student debt.
So, let’s get started.
Why is Pharmacy Tech a Good Career Choice?
Pharmacy techs assist pharmacists in preparing medications, managing inventory, and ensuring patients receive the right prescriptions.
They play a crucial role in healthcare, and the profession offers great benefits, including job security, decent pay, and a variety of work environments.
Here are five key reasons why becoming a pharmacy technician is a smart career choice.
#1 Easy Entry
One of the biggest advantages of becoming a pharmacy technician is that you don’t need years of schooling or an expensive degree.
Most pharmacy tech jobs require only a high school diploma and a formal training program as educational requisites.
Moreover, unlike careers that require extensive education, a pharmacy tech training program could be completed in as little as 3 to 4 months. With the right training, you can quickly gain the skills needed for the job.
#2 Quick Certification
Getting certified as a pharmacy technician is a fast and straightforward process, but it can make a big difference in your job prospects.
The Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), is highly valued by employers.
Certification proves that you have the right skills and knowledge to work in a pharmacy. Some online training programs help students get ready for the CPhT exam in just a few months, which means you can become job-ready much faster than in other healthcare careers.
#3 Great Job Outlook
Pharmacy technicians are in high demand, and job opportunities are expected to grow steadily. As per BLS 2023 data, employment for pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
With an aging population and more people requiring long-term medical care, the role of pharmacy techs is becoming more important than ever.
Whether in retail pharmacies, hospitals, or long-term care facilities, pharmacy techs enjoy strong job security and plenty of career opportunities.
#4 Good Pay and Benefits
Despite requiring minimal education, pharmacy technicians earn a competitive salary.
According to the BLS, the average salary for pharmacy techs is around $40,300 per year, with top earners making over $57,130 annually.
In addition to a solid salary, many pharmacy tech positions offer great benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Working in a hospital setting or for large pharmacy chains often comes with even better benefits and opportunities for career growth.
#5 Variety of Jobs
Pharmacy technicians aren’t limited to working in retail pharmacies. They can find jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, mail-order pharmacies, research labs, and even pharmaceutical companies.
This career offers flexibility and variety, allowing you to choose a work environment that best suits your interests.
Whether you prefer a fast-paced hospital setting or a structured retail pharmacy, there’s a place for you in this field.
Facts To Consider Before Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Career
While being a Pharmacy Technician has many advantages, it’s important to consider the challenges before making a decision. Every career has its downsides, and pharmacy tech is no exception.
Here are some of the key drawbacks you should be aware of:
#1 Physically Demanding Work
Pharmacy technicians spend long hours on their feet, especially in retail and hospital settings. The job requires standing, walking, and even lifting medication supplies throughout the day. If you prefer a desk job or have physical limitations, this could be a challenge.
#2 Repetitive Tasks
The daily responsibilities of a pharmacy technician can become repetitive. Counting pills, labeling bottles, managing inventory, and processing insurance claims are routine tasks. While some people enjoy structure, others may find this lack of variety monotonous over time.
#3 High-Pressure Work Environment
Pharmacy technicians often work in fast-paced, high-stress environments, particularly in busy retail pharmacies or hospitals.
Handling multiple prescriptions, answering customer questions, and ensuring accuracy can be overwhelming, especially during peak hours. Mistakes in medication dispensing can have serious consequences, adding to the pressure.
#4 Dealing with Difficult Customers
Working in a pharmacy means dealing with patients who may be sick, frustrated, or in pain. Some customers can be rude or impatient, especially if they experience insurance issues or delays in getting their medications.
Pharmacy technicians need strong customer service skills and patience to handle such situations professionally.
#5 Limited Career Growth Without Further Education
While pharmacy tech is a great entry-level job, long-term career growth may be limited unless you pursue additional certifications or further education.
Some pharmacy techs eventually move into pharmacist roles, but this requires years of schooling. Without advancement, salary increases can also be slow over time.
#6 Weekend, Holiday & Night Shifts
Many pharmacies operate 24/7, including weekends and holidays. Hospital pharmacy technicians and those working in large retail chains may have to work late-night shifts or holiday hours, which can be inconvenient for some people. If you prefer a traditional 9-to-5 schedule, this might not be ideal.
Final Thoughts
While a career as a Pharmacy Technician has its challenges, it still remains a solid choice for those looking for a quick entry into healthcare, job stability, and growth opportunities.
However, it’s important to weigh these cons and decide if this path aligns with your personal goals and work preferences.
Well, if it does! Here’s how you can start this career faster.
How to Start a Pharmacy Technician Career Faster?
Many people assume that getting into the healthcare field takes years, but that’s not the case with a pharmacy technician.
You don’t need a degree to get into the field. Instead, with the right training, you can enter the workforce in just a few months.
The key here is to follow a structured approach.
Step 1 -> Enroll in an Online Training Program
The first step is enrolling in the right training program, which is essential for learning the fundamentals of pharmacy technology.
Traditional programs, including degree programs, diplomas, and in-person certifications, often take one to two years to complete and come with higher tuition costs – $5000 to $40,000.
On the other hand, online programs usually provide a faster, more flexible, and cost-effective way to get trained.
With online training, you can study at your own pace and complete the coursework much quicker than traditional programs. Plus, you can avoid the hassle of commuting and adjust your schedule around work or other commitments.
So, the best thing would be to enroll in an online self-paced pharmacy tech training program.
Step 2 -> Complete The Coursework
Once enrolled, the next step is to complete the coursework. While this might seem obvious, many students struggle with finishing their training.
Dropout rates are high in traditional colleges due to rigid schedules, high tuition costs, and the inability to balance work and studies.
However, with an online program, if you stay committed and study at your own pace, completing your coursework will be comparatively easier and incredibly rewarding.
Plus, employers also prefer formally trained candidates, so finishing your program ensures you have the skills needed to succeed in this field.
Step 3 -> Gain Experience
After completing your coursework, the next step is to gain hands-on experience, which is crucial for understanding real-world pharmacy operations.
The best way to get this experience is through an externship. This allows you to work in an actual pharmacy, applying what you’ve learned and gaining confidence in handling prescriptions, assisting customers, and managing inventory.
However, finding externships on your own can be challenging since many pharmacies prefer candidates with prior experience. That’s why it’s best to choose a training program that includes externship opportunities, making it easier to secure practical experience.
FYI – Preppy offers an externship opportunity after their course ends, and if you’re lucky, you could get that at your nearest location. We’ll discuss more about that later.
Step 4 -> Get certified
Once you’ve gained some hands-on experience, the next step is to get certified. A certification significantly improves job prospects and earning potential.
The Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, offered by the PTCB, is the most recognized certification in the industry.
Employers highly value certified pharmacy techs because certification proves that you have met industry standards and are well-prepared for the job.
Step 5 -> Start Looking for Job Opportunities
Finally, it’s time to start looking for job opportunities. With training, hands-on experience, and certification, you’re now ready to apply for pharmacy tech positions.
You can find job openings in hospitals, retail pharmacies, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Networking with professionals, applying through job boards, and leveraging your externship connections can all help you land a job faster.
So, by following this structured approach, you can become a Pharmacy Technician in just a few months rather than spending years in school.
Preppy’s Self-Paced Pharmacy Tech Training Program
Preppy’s self-paced program is designed for busy adults who need a flexible, affordable, and fast way to start their pharmacy tech career.
Whether you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments, this program lets you train on your schedule, without spending years in school.
Here’s what makes Preppy stand out:
#1 100% Online and Self-Paced
With Preppy, you have complete control over your learning pace. The fully online format allows you to study whenever and wherever it’s convenient, making it ideal for those juggling multiple responsibilities.
#2 Faster Completion
Unlike traditional degree programs that can take up to two years, Preppy’s course can be completed in as little as two months. This accelerated timeline means you can start your career much sooner without unnecessary delays.
#3 An Externship Opportunity
Preppy includes an externship opportunity to help you gain real-world experience in a pharmacy setting. Plus, we can arrange the externship near your location for added convenience.
This hands-on training is crucial for applying your knowledge and getting a feel for the day-to-day responsibilities of a pharmacy technician.
#4 You Could Become Certification Ready
Preppy’s curriculum is meticulously designed to meet industry standards, so you could become ready for the CPhT credential offered by the PTCB.
This certification is widely recognized and highly sought after in the pharmacy technology field, making it a vital step in a successful career.
Having the CPhT certification under your belt can significantly boost your employability, as it is a credential that employers value highly.
#5 Affordable Tuition
Preppy’s self-paced pharmacy tech program is one of the most cost-effective training options available. You could get it at just $1,599. This affordability makes pharmacy tech training accessible without the risk of student loan debt.
#6 University Certificate
After completing the program, you could earn a university certificate from Texas A&M International University, a well-respected, non-profit institution. This credential adds significant credibility to your qualifications.
#7 24/7 Student Support
Preppy provides round-the-clock support to ensure you never feel stuck. Whether you need help with coursework, technical issues, or require guidance, our team is always available to assist.
#8 A Special Bonus
When you pay your tuition in full, you’ll receive a free laptop, yours to keep even after completing the program. This added perk makes studying even more convenient.
So, if you’re looking for a faster, more affordable way to become a pharmacy technician, without student debt or the hassle of in-person classes, Preppy’s Self-Paced Pharmacy Tech Training Program could be the perfect choice.
In Conclusion
Choosing a career as a Pharmacy Technician can be a great decision, especially if you’re looking for a stable, rewarding job in healthcare without spending years in school.
If you’re ready to take the next step, the good news is that you don’t need to attend college for years or take on student debt.
With the right training, like Preppy’s self-paced program, you could start your journey faster and more affordably.
So, if a career as a Pharmacy Technician sounds like the right fit, now is the time to get started!
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose 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 with education in a few months through immersive online training.
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