Pharmacy Technician Programs in Tacoma WA

Interested in Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Tacoma, WA?

Finding the right Pharmacy Technician Program in Tacoma, WA, can set you on the path to a rewarding healthcare career.

This article highlights the top programs in the area, detailing key features like accreditation, hands-on training, and career support.

Get ready to discover programs that meet your needs and propel your career forward.

Clover Park Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program

Clover Park Technical College offers a top-tier Pharmacy Technician Program in Tacoma, WA. It is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). These respected accreditations ensure you receive exceptional training that prepares you for a successful career in healthcare settings.

The program includes rigorous classroom instruction, hands-on laboratory practice, and three months of on-the-job training. Courses cover vital responsibilities such as preparing IV drugs, processing prescriptions, and managing automated drug-dispensing systems.

Key Features:

• Two Program Options: Choose between a Pharmacy Technician ASHP/ACPE Certificate (three quarters) or a Pharmacy Technician Advanced – ASHP/ACPE Accredited Associate of Applied Technology Degree (five quarters).
• Experienced Instructors: Courses are led by professionals like Trisha Autry, who bring expert knowledge into the classroom.
• Hands-on Training: Gain practical experience through lab work and externships ensuring you are job-ready.
• Wide Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue various roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community pharmacies.

Prospective students should visit the Entry Services in the Welcome Center for application processes, program costs, and financial aid options. Information sessions are also highly recommended for more detailed guidance.

Clover Park Technical College stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and practical training opportunities that ensure graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

Renton Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program

Renton Technical College offers a robust Pharmacy Technician Program that prepares students for diverse roles in pharmacy settings. This program emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects necessary for excelling in the profession.

The curriculum includes compounding products, mixing IV solutions, pharmaceutical calculations, and computer prescription processing. Additionally, hands-on externships provide real-world experience in retail and hospital pharmacies, amplifying your readiness for the workplace.

Key Features:

• Practical Skills Training: Learn essential skills such as compounding products, and mixing IV solutions.
• Externships: Gain hands-on experience in retail and hospital pharmacies.
• Certification Exam Preparation: Graduates are prepared for the national certification exam required for licensure by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy.
• Support for TAA-Eligible Workers and Veterans: Grants and support services available to help you succeed.

Upon acceptance, students must establish an account with CastleBranch.com, pass a criminal background check, and fulfill health requirements including vaccinations. Although the program is currently working on reaccreditation with ASHP, it remains recognized by the WA Department of Health.

Renton Technical College excels in combining rigorous classroom instruction with practical externships, making it a strong choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians.

Pima Medical Institute – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program

The Pima Medical Institute’s Pharmacy Technician Certification Program in Tacoma provides an immersive training experience. The program integrates hands-on training, lab work, and classroom instruction to ready students for the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (CPhT).

The curriculum covers essential pharmacy tasks, like medication preparation, compounding, and automated dispensing. Additionally, it emphasizes patient care in hospital settings, ensuring comprehensive preparation for various roles in the field.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Training: Intensive focus on medication preparation, compounding, and automated dispensing.
• Experienced Instructors: Learn from industry professionals who bring real-world experience into the classroom.
• Soft Skills Development: Emphasis on customer service and prescription preparation.
• Blended Learning Options: Flexible learning with a combination of online interactive instruction and on-campus support services.

Applicants need to attend classes on campus throughout the program. It is competitively priced, with financial aid available for those who qualify.

Pima Medical Institute ensures you receive well-rounded training and support to excel in your pharmacy technician career.

MultiCare – Pharmacy Technician Training Program

The MultiCare Pharmacy Technician Training Program in Tacoma offers a structured, paid training period of 4-6 months. Following the training, there is a two-year work commitment at one of the MultiCare pharmacy locations in the Puget Sound or Inland Northwest Regions.

Key Features:

• Paid Training: Receive payment during the 4-6 month training period.
• Work Commitment: Secure employment for two years within MultiCare’s pharmacy locations.
• Practical Experience: Gain hands-on training under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Applicants must be 18 years or older, hold a high school diploma or GED, and obtain “Pharmacy Assistant” licensure with a technician-in-training endorsement. Specific details on hours and prices are not provided on the website, but interested individuals can express interest to receive more information.

MultiCare is known for offering a supportive and inclusive training environment, making it a promising pathway for future pharmacy technicians.

These four programs offer a range of options to fit different needs and career aspirations. From traditional classroom learning to hands-on, paid training, you’ll find the right fit to start your career in pharmacy technology in Tacoma, WA.

Pima Medical Institute – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program

Discover the Pima Medical Institute’s Pharmacy Technician Certification Program in Tacoma, WA, known for its hands-on training and comprehensive curriculum. This program aims to prepare students for the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (CPhT), integrating rigorous classroom instruction with practical lab work.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential tasks such as medication preparation, compounding, and automated dispensing.
• Experienced Instructors: Learn from professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom.
• Soft Skills Development: Focus on customer service and prescription preparation, preparing you for high-quality patient interaction.
• Blended Learning Options: Flexible scheduling that combines online interactive instruction with on-campus support.

Admission Requirements:

• Attendance: Must attend classes on campus as the program requires in-person participation.
• Financial Aid: Various financial aid options are available for eligible students to support their education.

Choosing the Pima Medical Institute’s Pharmacy Technician Certification Program ensures you receive a well-rounded education, equipping you with the skills needed for a successful career in pharmacy technology.

North Seattle College – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program

Discover the North Seattle College’s Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program, an established program accredited by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy. Operating since the mid-1980s, this program offers a thorough education in outpatient, aseptic inpatient, and pharmacology study.

Key Features:

• Extensive Curriculum: Courses are held twice a week, covering crucial areas such as outpatient and aseptic inpatient pharmacy practices.
• Hands-on Externships: Complete 432 hours of externship at leading community sites, including retail locations and hospitals.
• Innovative Lab: Benefit from a state-of-the-art lab featuring a model pharmacy equipped with current pharmacy software.
• Experienced Instructors: Learn from faculty who are actively employed in the field, ensuring relevant and up-to-date knowledge.

Partnerships and Support:

• Industry Collaboration: Collaborate with PioneerRx Pharmacy Software and industry leaders like Bartell’s and UW Medical Center.
• Strong Community Ties: Partnership with the Washington State Association of Pharmacy Technicians enhances your training with real-world insights.

Choosing North Seattle College provides a robust education pathway with hands-on experience, thorough preparation, and strong industry connections.

Charter College Fife – Pharmacy Technician Program

The Charter College Fife Pharmacy Technician Program offers a hands-on approach to training, perfect for entry-level positions in the field. The curriculum is designed to cover all critical aspects of pharmacy technology.

Key Features:

• Diverse Curriculum: Learn pharmacy calculations, pharmacology, medical terminology, and ethics.
• Practical Training: Simulated pharmacy environment where you’ll dispense medications, maintain inventory, and provide customer service.
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), ensuring high educational standards.
• Support Services: Benefit from job placement assistance and networking opportunities provided by a dedicated career services department.

Important Details:

• Application Process: Prospective students should review prerequisites and contact the college to discuss program specifics such as tuition fees, program length, and class schedules.
• Job Placement: Strong career services support helps graduates transition into the workforce successfully.

Choosing Charter College Fife ensures you receive both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, increasing your employability upon graduation.

What to Look for When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program

When selecting one of the Pharmacy Technician Programs in Tacoma WA, consider the following essential factors:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like ASHP, ACPE, or the Washington State Board of Pharmacy. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets established educational standards.
2. Curriculum and Hands-on Training: Look for a program that integrates classroom learning, lab work, and practical externships. Programs that offer training in medication preparation, compounding, and automated dispensing will equip you with valuable skills.
3. Experienced Instructors: Choose programs with instructors who are actively working in the field. Their current industry knowledge ensures you receive relevant and up-to-date education.
4. Certification and Licensing Preparation: Opt for programs designed to prepare you for national certification exams such as the CPhT and ensure it meets state-specific licensing requirements.
5. Support Services: Evaluate the program’s career services, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities. These services can significantly enhance your chances of securing a job after graduation.
6. Program Flexibility: If you require flexible scheduling, seek out programs that offer blended learning options, combining online instruction with on-ground support.
7. Tuition Costs and Financial Aid: Consider the cost of the program and available financial aid. Understanding the financial commitment is crucial, and financial aid can alleviate some of the burdens.

By assessing these factors, you can select the Pharmacy Technician Program in Tacoma, WA that best aligns with your career aspirations and educational needs, ensuring a bright future in the healthcare industry.