Enrolling in the right training program is crucial when starting towards your journey to become a Pharmacy Technician. The time and money you invest in your education should lead to a fulfilling career, and choosing the wrong program can set you back. Not all programs are created equal, and some carry significant red flags that may harm your prospects in the eyes of potential employers. Understanding what to look out for can save you from making costly mistakes.
So let’s highlight the top five red flags in a Pharmacy Tech program. These red flags can help you distinguish between high-quality programs and those that will leave you underprepared or in unnecessary debt.
Red Flag #1: The Program is Unaccredited
One of the most critical aspects to consider when selecting a Pharmacy Technician program is whether it is accredited. Accreditation ensures that the program meets established standards and is recognized by employers and other educational institutions. Unfortunately, some programs, especially those offered by lesser-known institutions or even individual instructors (like YouTubers), may not have this essential credential.
Why is this a red flag? When employers review applications, they look at where you received your training. If your program is from an unaccredited institution, your application may be disregarded, or it could be placed at the bottom of the pile. Accreditation is particularly important in healthcare fields, where standards are stringent, and patient care is on the line.
What to do instead: Before enrolling in any program, ensure that it is accredited by a recognized body. Accreditation will not only make your resume more attractive to potential employers, but it also guarantees a certain level of education quality.
Red Flag #2: The Program is Extremely Cheap
It’s natural to want to save money on education, especially if you’re on a budget. However, beware of programs that seem too good to be true in terms of cost. Low-cost programs sometimes offered locally or over weekends for as little as $500 to $1,000, may come with hidden drawbacks.
These budget-friendly programs often use outdated materials or don’t cover the breadth of knowledge required for a Pharmacy Technician role. Topics such as pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, and interpreting prescriptions require in-depth study. A program that skimps on these topics will leave you unprepared for the rigors of the job.
Additionally, in interviews for Pharmacy Technician positions, employers often ask questions to assess your understanding of these critical areas. If you attend a low-cost, subpar program, you might find yourself unable to answer basic questions, jeopardizing your chances of securing a job.
What to do instead: Look for pharmacy technician programs that offer a comprehensive curriculum, even if the cost is a little higher. Always compare what the program covers with the essential skills and knowledge needed for a Pharmacy Technician career. In the long run, it’s better to invest in a program that thoroughly prepares you for the job.
Red Flag #3: The Program Doesn’t Prepare You for PTCB Certification
One of the key qualifications for a Pharmacy Technician is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification. Many employers require or strongly prefer certified candidates, and passing the PTCB exam is essential for standing out in a competitive job market. However, some training programs, particularly those that are too short or limited in scope, do not adequately prepare students for this critical exam.
Programs that rush through the material or only last a few weeks might leave you unprepared for the PTCB exam, forcing you to study on your own afterward. Not only does this waste time, but it also can cost you extra money as you may need to purchase study materials or retake the exam if you fail on your first attempt.
What to do instead: Before enrolling, confirm that the program provides ample preparation for the PTCB exam. Ideally, the program should integrate practice exams, cover all necessary topics, and ensure you have the confidence to pass on your first try. Completing a pharmacy tech course that prepares you well will make you more marketable and ready to hit the ground running in your new career.
Red Flag #4: The Program Puts You in Heavy Student Debt
While some programs are too cheap to be effective, others swing to the opposite extreme, costing upwards of $30,000 or more. These full-time associate degree programs or expensive certificate programs offered by universities may provide a solid education, but the hefty price tag can be a deal breaker, especially for those just starting their careers.
High student debt can burden you for years, and entering the workforce with a mountain of loans hanging over your head adds unnecessary financial stress. It’s important to balance the quality of the education you’re receiving with the financial reality of what you can afford.
What to do instead: Look for programs that offer a solid education without the exorbitant price tag. Many community colleges or online pharmacy technician programs provide excellent training for a fraction of the cost. Before taking on loans, consider whether the potential income as a Pharmacy Technician justifies the expense of the program. You don’t want to start your career weighed down by student debt that could have been avoided.
Red Flag #5: The Program Doesn’t Offer Hands-On Experience
In the healthcare field, hands-on experience is invaluable. Some Pharmacy Technician programs focus purely on classroom learning or theoretical knowledge without offering real-world, hands-on training. This is one of the most critical red flags in a pharmacy tech program and can put you at a disadvantage when you start looking for jobs.
Many high-quality pharmacy tech certification programs offer externships or clinical placements, allowing students to work in a real pharmacy setting under the supervision of licensed professionals. These opportunities allow you to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom, gain confidence, and build your resume. Employers value candidates who have hands-on experience, as it shows you are ready to step into the job with practical knowledge.
What to do instead: Ask if the program offers externship opportunities or partnerships with local pharmacies where you can gain practical experience. Not all programs offer this, but those that do can provide a major advantage as you enter the job market. Hands-on experience is a great way to distinguish yourself from other candidates who only have classroom learning on their resumes.
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– Pharmacy Tech Salary
– What Does a Pharmacy Tech Do?
– The Right Way to Start Your Pharmacy Tech Career
Red Flags in a Pharmacy Tech Program – Conclusion
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician program is a significant decision that can affect the trajectory of your career. By avoiding the red flags in a pharmacy tech program, you’ll ensure that your time, effort, and money are well-spent. Accreditation, a comprehensive curriculum, PTCB exam preparation, reasonable costs, and hands-on experience should all be priorities as you make your decision.
With the right program, you’ll be well on your way to starting towards a successful career in a growing field. Make sure to do your research, ask the right questions, and choose a program that sets you up for success without unnecessary debt or inadequate preparation.
Preppy’s Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
If you’re ready to jump into a pharmacy technician course but are unsure where to start, there’s a program that ticks all the right boxes.
Program Overview
Preppy offers a 100% online pharmacy technician program in partnership with Auburn, an accredited university. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate of completion from this university, which boosts your resume and makes you stand out to employers.
Key Features of Preppy’s Program:
- Self-Paced and 100% Online: Study anywhere, anytime, without being tied to a schedule.
- Prepares You for the PTCB Exam: Preppy’s course provides all the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the CPhT exam and become a certified pharmacy technician.
- Complete in as Little as Two Months: You could complete the entire program in just two months, although you’ll have access to the course for a full year if needed.
- Hands-On Externship Opportunities: Gain real-world experience by participating in an externship opportunity at a hospital or pharmacy.
- Affordable: Preppy offers one of the most competitively priced programs, and right now, they’re even offering a free laptop upon enrollment!
Also read: Pharmacy Tech Salary
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.
Healthcare, IT, Business, Trades…Preppy gets you ready for the trending careers in our modern economy.
Our team of higher education and startup veterans has 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.
