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Are you looking to become a pharmacy technician in Virginia Beach, VA? Finding the right program can be a game-changer for your career.
This article reviews some of the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Virginia Beach, VA, providing key details about each option to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you prefer hands-on training or flexible online classes, there’s a program here for you.
Thomas Nelson Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Thomas Nelson Community College offers you a pathway to a promising career in pharmacy. The Pharmacy Technician Program at Thomas Nelson provides:
- In-depth learning: Theoretical classes cover Pharmacy Practice, Pharmacy Mathematics, and Pharmacology. You’ll also tackle Pharmacy Technician Exam Preparation.
- Hands-on experience: Lab sessions and clinical externships ensure you acquire practical skills in a real-world setting.
- Professional emphasis: Learn about pharmacy record systems, drug inventory management, and essential body systems.
Completing the course earns you a Certificate of Completion, qualifying you for the Virginia State Board of Pharmacy exam and the National Certification Program for Pharmacy Technicians (PTCB). Note that financial aid is not available for this program, so plan accordingly.
Explore this robust program by visiting Thomas Nelson Community College’s Pharmacy Technician Program for more details.
Virginia Beach City Public Schools – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) offer a well-structured Pharmacy Technician Program. Perfect for those aiming to become pharmacy technicians, it features:
- Comprehensive coverage: Education on pharmacy laws, pharmaceutical calculations, medication dispensing, and inventory management.
- Simulated environments: Hands-on training in simulated pharmacy settings enhances your practical skills.
- Certification readiness: This program prepares you to take the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) pharmacy technician certification exam.
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and may have to pass a background check and drug screening. Because class schedules and tuition details can vary, it is best to contact VBCPS directly for specific information and assistance.
Learn more about the Virginia Beach City Public Schools Pharmacy Technician Program for a comprehensive education experience.
Tidewater Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Tidewater Community College provides a rigorous, accredited Pharmacy Technician Program. Designed to span two semesters and totaling 17 credits, this program offers:
- Thorough preparation: Supervised by licensed pharmacists, the curriculum addresses ordering, stocking, packaging, preparing, and dispensing medications.
- Essential skills: Focus on attention to detail and effective communication.
- Internships: Gain real-world experience through internships in authentic pharmacy environments.
Admissions are competitive. You need to be at least 18 years old, and you must complete a separate application process. This program aligns with Virginia’s licensure requirements, ensuring you are well-prepared for national certification exams.
For more information, check out the Tidewater Community College Pharmacy Technician Program.
ECPI University – Pharmacy Technician Program
At ECPI University, flexible learning options make their Pharmacy Technician Program particularly appealing. Here’s what you can expect:
- Flexible schedules: Choose from on-campus or online classes, with day, evening, and weekend options available.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Subjects covered include pharmacy calculations, operations, laws and ethics, pharmacology, and medical terminology.
- Practical training: Practical training in simulated settings and externships at local pharmacies ensure real-world skills.
The program prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT), both necessary for Virginia licensure. Financial aid options, including scholarships and VA/military benefits, help make this education accessible.
Visit ECPI University’s Pharmacy Technician Program for detailed information and to start your educational journey.
CVS Health – Pharmacy Technician Program
The CVS Health Pharmacy Technician Program in Virginia Beach lets you work with one of the nation’s leading retail pharmacy chains. Here’s what you need to know:
- Comprehensive Training: You will go through extensive training to meet state board certification requirements. This training includes both classroom learning and hands-on experience.
- Career Opportunities: Completing the program opens up career advancement possibilities within CVS Health, including opportunities for further education.
- Initial Duties: Initially, your duties might be limited until you meet certification requirements.
- Benefits: As part of the CVS team, you’ll enjoy well-being programs, educational assistance, and discounts within CVS stores.
The program prepares you to ensure medication needs and regulatory standards are met, all while maintaining patient confidentiality. You can visit the CVS Health Pharmacy Technician Program page for more details.
Goodwill – Pharmacy Technician Program
Thinking of a unique approach to your pharmacy technician career? The Goodwill Pharmacy Technician Program, in partnership with CVS Health and Baltimore City Community College, offers a compelling option. Although it is based in Baltimore, it provides an exemplary model worth examining:
- Pre-Certification Program: The 16-week pre-certification program prepares you for the Maryland Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Topics include CPR training, Pharmacy Calculations, and Pharmacy Theory.
- Hands-On Training: The program finishes with a 160-hour clinical stint at CVS Health.
- Job Placement Assistance: Goodwill offers robust support in getting you placed in a job upon completion.
While it is advisable to check for similar programs closer to Virginia Beach, you can get more information on the Goodwill Pharmacy Technician Program.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician program is crucial for laying a solid foundation for your career. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited to meet industry standards.
- Curriculum: Look for programs offering a well-rounded curriculum, including hands-on training and exam preparation.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the overall cost and explore available financial aid options.
- Program Duration: Check if the program duration aligns with your schedule.
- Job Placement Rates: Review the program’s job placement rates to gauge post-graduation opportunities.
- Prerequisites: Understand all prerequisites, like a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Background Checks: Some programs may require passing background checks or drug screenings.
- Externship Opportunities: Inquire about externship opportunities for practical experience.
Taking these factors into account will help you make an informed decision and ensure your chosen program aligns with your career goals.
Conclusion
Virginia Beach offers a variety of excellent Pharmacy Technician programs to jumpstart your career in healthcare. Programs like Thomas Nelson Community College, CVS Health, Tidewater Community College, ECPI University, and those offered through VBCPS and Goodwill provide thorough training, practical experience, and certification preparation.
By considering factors like accreditation, curriculum, and job placement rates, you can choose the best program to fit your needs. Your journey to becoming a skilled pharmacy technician starts with selecting the right program.
Summary
- Thomas Nelson Community College offers a robust program with theoretical and hands-on learning, culminating in a Certificate of Completion. Learn more.
- Virginia Beach City Public Schools provide a structured curriculum for high school graduates, preparing you for national certifications. Learn more.
- Tidewater Community College offers an accredited, two-semester program focusing on medication preparation and clinical internships. Learn more.
- ECPI University features flexible learning options with classes available on-campus or online, along with financial aid opportunities. Learn more.
- CVS Health allows you to gain practical experience while enjoying benefits like educational assistance and a retail store discount. Learn more.
- Goodwill, in collaboration with CVS Health and Baltimore City Community College, offers a unique pre-certification program, though based outside Virginia Beach. Learn more.
Choosing the right pharmacy technician program aligns you with industry standards and positions you for a successful career in healthcare.