Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Alexandria, Arlington, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Richmond, Roanoke, and Virginia Beach.
Want to become a Pharmacy Technician in Virginia?
This guide highlights the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Virginia, detailing course offerings, accreditation, and unique benefits to help you start your healthcare career.
Tidewater Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Tidewater Community College Pharmacy Technician Program offers a Career Studies Certificate in Pharmacy Technician over two semesters. This program is designed to prepare you for a successful career assisting licensed pharmacists. With a strong emphasis on general pharmacology and medical terminology, you’ll gain practical, real-world experience.
Program highlights:
- Hands-on Training: Focus on medication ordering, stocking, packaging, preparation, and dispensing.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you for the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination.
- Eligibility: Graduates are qualified to become Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhT), a requirement in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
- Selective Admission: Requires a separate application due to the program’s high demand.
The program stands out for its hands-on experience, readying you for professional exams and licensure. This is an excellent option if you are detail-oriented, able to communicate effectively, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Inova – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Inova Pharmacy Technician Training Program is a 10-week immersive program tailored for beginners. It combines lectures and workshops to cover essential topics such as basic pharmaceutics, anatomy, pharmacy operations, and emergency preparedness.
Noteworthy features:
- Earn While You Learn: Participants receive full-time benefits and a salary during the training.
- Extensive Curriculum: Focuses on both foundational and specific skills needed in pharmacy settings.
- Exam Readiness: Prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
- Guaranteed Employment: Graduates can smoothly transition to full-time pharmacy technician roles within the Inova network.
Supported by a dedicated team across 12 pharmacy settings, this program effectively combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Direct contact with Inova is recommended for detailed information on program hours and pricing. Inova’s curriculum and comprehensive support network make it a top choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians.
Bremo Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technician Training Course
Bremo Pharmacy’s Pharmacy Technician Training Course in Richmond offers a hybrid format combining online and in-person learning. This ASHP-accredited course is tailored by experienced professionals for entry-level practice in various pharmacy settings.
Key aspects:
- Flexible Completion: The course includes 426 credit hours split into online didactics, in-person simulation, and internships.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
- Extensive Training: Internship opportunities across Virginia and primary training at Bremo Pharmacy.
- Financial Options: Tuition can be managed via payment plans or the Herbert Memorial Scholarship.
Upon completion, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to excel as a pharmacy technician. Bremo Pharmacy’s blend of flexible scheduling and thorough education makes it a strong option for those seeking a balanced learning experience.
Explore these opportunities to choose a program that aligns with your career aspirations in the healthcare sector. Each of these programs provides a robust pathway to becoming a proficient pharmacy technician.
Southwest Virginia Community College – Pharmacy Technician Career Studies Certificate
The Southwest Virginia Community College Pharmacy Technician Career Studies Certificate is tailored to arm you with the necessary skills to work in a variety of healthcare settings. This program covers an extensive range of topics from pharmaceutical calculations to medication safety, ensuring that you are thoroughly prepared for your future role.
Main features include:
- Broad Curriculum: You’ll dive into pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, and medication safety.
- Practical Experience: Gain hands-on practical training in real-world settings.
- Employment Flexibility: The program prepares you to work in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and more.
- Necessary Background Check: A background check by the Department of State Police is required.
- Financial Support: Various financial assistance options are available to make your education more accessible.
This certificate sets the foundation for supporting licensed pharmacists effectively, opening doors to various employment opportunities across the healthcare spectrum.
J.T. Pharmacy Technician Training – Pharmacy Technician Program
The J.T. Pharmacy Technician Training Program offers a solid educational framework for aspiring pharmacy technicians. With flexible day, night, and online class options, this program can fit into your schedule with ease.
Key highlights:
- Accreditation: Accredited by the PTCB and the VA State Board of Pharmacy.
- Flexible Learning: Provides options for day, night, and online classes.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Focuses on pharmacy law, aseptic techniques, inventory management, and insurance billing.
- Exam Preparation: Prepares you well for the PTCB exam.
While further inquiry may be necessary to understand specifics like program duration and costs, the J.T. Pharmacy Technician Training offers a flexible and comprehensive approach ideal for those seeking robust education.
Choosing the Best Pharmacy Technician Program for You
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program involves considering several important factors to ensure it aligns with your career goals and lifestyle:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Evaluate the program’s cost and what financial assistance is available. Scholarships, payment plans, and grants can make a significant difference in affordability.
- Program Length: Determine if the program’s duration suits your timeline. Some programs may be intense and short, while others might be extended and more comprehensive.
- Hands-on Training: Real-world experience is crucial. Look for programs that offer internships or practical in-pharmacy sessions to gain essential skills.
- Faculty Expertise: Research the qualifications of faculty members. Experienced instructors can offer invaluable insights and mentorship.
- Job Placement Rates: High job placement rates indicate successful program outcomes. Programs that support job searches and placements can provide a smoother transition into the workforce.
- Student Reviews: Past student testimonials and reviews can offer an idea of what to expect. Look for programs with consistently positive feedback.
By weighing these factors against personal circumstances and professional aspirations, you can choose a pharmacy technician program in Virginia that is both thorough and supportive.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion
Embarking on a career as a pharmacy technician offers a rewarding path in healthcare. With numerous well-accredited programs available in Virginia, you can find one that caters to your educational needs, schedule, and career ambitions.
Below is a summary of the mentioned programs for a quick comparison:
- Tidewater Community College offers a Career Studies Certificate with hands-on training and certification exam preparation.
- Inova provides a comprehensive, 10-week “earn while you learn” training program with guaranteed employment post-certification.
- Bremo Pharmacy merges online and in-person learning through its ASHP-accredited Pharmacy Technician Training Course.
- Southwest Virginia Community College focuses on thorough practical training and broad industry applicability with its Career Studies Certificate.
- J.T. Pharmacy Technician Training offers flexible class schedules and robust accreditation.
Each program has unique strengths, and understanding these can guide you toward making an informed decision. Start your journey in the healthcare sector today by choosing a pharmacy technician program that best aligns with your aspirations and requirements.