Becoming a pharmacy technician is a great career choice, but selecting the right training program can be overwhelming. With courses ranging from $999 to $5,000 and durations varying from a few weeks to nearly two years, it’s easy to feel lost in the decision-making process. However, by focusing on key factors, you can confidently choose the best pharmacy technician course for your needs.
This guide will walk you through the five essential criteria for evaluating a pharmacy technician course and analyze the two main types of programs available: community college and online programs. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for and how to make an informed decision.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Course
Before diving into specific programs, it’s important to establish a set of criteria to evaluate them. Here are five key factors that should influence your decision:
1. Accreditation and Industry Recognition
A quality pharmacy technician course should be recognized by employers. Choosing an unaccredited program could mean wasting time and money on a certificate that isn’t valued in the industry. Look for programs that are accredited by reputable institutions or governing bodies.
Additionally, ensure that the program prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. This certification is widely accepted and often required by employers. In fact, surveys indicate that approximately 85% of employers prefer or require pharmacy technicians to have this certification. If a course does not explicitly prepare you for the PTCB exam, it should raise a red flag.
2. Time Commitment
Pharmacy technician training programs vary widely in length. Traditional programs can take anywhere from 9 months to 2 years, whereas online programs can be completed in as little as 8 to 12 weeks.
Your ideal timeframe will depend on your personal circumstances. If a course is too short, it may not cover all necessary materials. If it’s too long, it may delay your entry into the workforce. Finding a balance between comprehensive training and efficiency is key.
3. Format and Flexibility
Consider how the program fits into your schedule. Some courses require attending fixed class times, while others offer self-paced learning. Similarly, some require in-person attendance, whereas others can be completed entirely online.
If you’re working full-time or have family responsibilities, flexibility might be your top priority. Online courses allow students to learn at their own pace, making them a great option for those with busy schedules.
4. Cost and Financial Options
Price is a major factor when choosing a program. Some courses have a low base cost but include additional fees for books, lab materials, or exam preparation. Others offer an all-inclusive pricing model.
It’s also worth considering financing options. Some programs provide payment plans or financial aid, but these can take months to process and approval is not guaranteed. Always read the fine print before committing to a program.
5. Hands-On Experience
Pharmacy technicians work in fast-paced environments that require practical skills. A strong program should offer hands-on training, whether through in-person labs or externships with real pharmacies.
If a program does not provide any practical training, you may struggle to gain the necessary experience. Look for programs that offer externships or partnerships with local pharmacies to ensure you’re well-prepared for real-world work.
Comparing Community College and Online Pharmacy Technician Programs
Now that we have established our evaluation criteria, let’s compare the two main types of pharmacy technician programs: community college programs and online programs.
Community College Programs
Community college pharmacy technician programs are generally well-recognized and accredited. However, they come with several challenges:
- Higher cost: Tuition can be expensive, often ranging from $3,000 to $5,000.
- Longer duration: These programs typically take 12 to 18 months to complete.
- Fixed class schedules: Students must attend classes at set times, making it difficult for those with jobs or family responsibilities.
- Unnecessary coursework: Many programs require students to take general education classes that are not directly related to pharmacy work.
Pros of Community College Programs:
- Well-recognized accreditation
- Structured learning environment
- Hands-on lab training
Cons of Community College Programs:
- High cost
- Long duration
- Rigid scheduling
Online Pharmacy Technician Programs
Online programs offer a faster and more flexible alternative to traditional community college courses. However, they come with their own risks:
- Accreditation concerns: Some online programs are not accredited, which could make it harder to find a job.
- Lack of hands-on training: Some online programs do not include in-person labs or externships, meaning students miss out on crucial practical experience.
That said, online programs are often more affordable and faster than community college options. They can be completed in as little as 8 to 12 weeks and allow students to study at their own pace.
Pros of Online Programs:
- Lower cost
- Shorter duration
- Flexible learning schedule
Cons of Online Programs:
- Some programs are not accredited
- Limited or no hands-on training
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.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pharmacy technician course requires careful consideration. To recap, the five key factors to evaluate are:
- Accreditation and Industry Recognition – Ensure the program is respected by employers and prepares you for the PTCB exam.
- Time Commitment – Choose a duration that fits your schedule without sacrificing quality.
- Format and Flexibility – Consider whether a structured classroom or self-paced learning suits your needs.
- Cost and Financial Options – Look beyond the initial price tag and factor in additional fees.
- Hands-On Experience – Ensure the program includes practical training opportunities.
Both community college and online programs have their advantages and disadvantages. If you prefer a structured, hands-on approach and can commit to a longer timeframe, a community college program may be best. If you need a faster, more affordable, and flexible option, an online course might be the right fit.
By carefully weighing these factors, you can find the pharmacy technician course that best aligns with your goals and circumstances. Investing in the right training now will set you up for long-term success in this rewarding career field.
Also read: Online Medical Coding Programs: What You Need to Know
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.
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