Pharmacy Technician Programs in Billings MT

Wondering which pharmacy technician programs in Billings MT offer the best career opportunities? Look no further.

This guide covers top programs that equip you with essential skills and hands-on training, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam and future employment.

Discover the options that best fit your career aspirations.

MSU Billings – Pharmacy Technician Program

The MSU Billings Pharmacy Technician Program provides you with the foundational skills needed for a successful career in pharmacy.

You will learn through a well-rounded curriculum covering:

• Pharmacy Practice Types: Gain knowledge of different pharmacy settings.
• Pharmacy Law and Regulations: Understand the legal guidelines and ethical considerations.
• Pharmacy Technician Job Duties: Learn the responsibilities and tasks within a pharmacy.
• Pharmacy Calculations: Explore dosage determinations, compounding, and measurement systems.
• Pharmacology: Study drug classes, mechanisms of action, and common diseases.

A notable feature is the hands-on Pharmacy Dispensing Lab that provides practical experience. You’ll engage in medication dispensing, compounding, and sterile preparations in an environment that mimics real-world pharmacy operations.

Importantly, the program includes experiential training under a pharmacist’s supervision in various settings like hospital and community pharmacies. This experience can be indispensable as you transition from education to employment.

Lastly, the program prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s (PTCB) national exam, which is a requirement for becoming a registered pharmacy technician in Montana. Review the program’s details here to explore prerequisites, course content, and tuition fees.

City College at Montana State University Billings – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program

The City College at Montana State University Billings offers a Pharmacy Technician certificate program that equips you for employment in various pharmacy environments, focusing on both theoretical foundations and practical skills.

Key program elements include:

• Prescription Drug Dispensing: Master the handling and dispensing of medications.
• Medication Device Management: Learn to manage various medical devices.
• Administrative Functions: Understand tasks such as reviewing prescription requests.

You’ll have an opportunity to interact with industry professionals from Billings Clinic and St. Vincent Healthcare, providing valuable networking chances and real-world insights. Additionally, on-site tours of Billings Clinic’s pharmacy areas let you experience the working environment firsthand.

Graduates are prepared to meet the increasing demand for pharmacy technicians, a critical role in both community and hospital pharmacy settings. Review the full program details here to better understand the coursework, duration, and cost.

Charter College – Pharmacy Technician Program

Charter College in Billings, MT, offers a Pharmacy Technician program designed to prepare you for immediate employment in various pharmacy settings.

The curriculum includes:

• Pharmaceutical Calculations: Learn precise dosage measurements.
• Pharmacy Law: Gain an understanding of ethical and legal guidelines.
• Drug Classification: Study different types of medications and their uses.
• Dosage Forms and Medication Safety: Ensure safe dispensing of medicines.

With small class sizes, flexible schedules, and personalized attention, you receive an interactive learning experience. The program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and externship opportunities, ensuring you gain thorough knowledge and practical skills.

Upon completion, you’ll be ready to take the PTCB exam. This credential is essential for employment in the field. Charter College also offers strong career support services to assist you in job placement. Discover more about the program’s specifics, costs, and application process at Charter College.

By choosing the right program that fits your needs, you can lay the foundation for a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician in Billings, MT.

The University of Montana – Western – Pharmacy Technician Online Certification Course

The University of Montana – Western offers an all-encompassing Pharmacy Technician Online Certification Course designed to meet the growing demand for pharmacy technicians. This program is ideal if you prefer flexible learning that accommodates your schedule while equipping you with the essential skills needed for a career in pharmacy.

The online course covers:

• Pharmacy Terminology: Familiarize yourself with the language used in the industry.
• Prescription Interpretation: Learn to accurately interpret and fill prescriptions.
• Generic and Brand Name Drugs: Understand the differences and applications.
• Ethical Pharmacy Practice: Grasp the ethical considerations and legal regulations.

A notable feature is the course’s self-paced format, allowing you to progress according to your own timetable while preparing for national certification exams, including the PTCB. The curriculum also includes pharmaceutical calculations, inventory control, and medical and pharmaceutical terminology.

What sets this program apart is the optional clinical externship, providing hands-on experience in actual pharmacy settings. The externship helps you understand the differences between retail and hospital pharmacy environments, giving you a well-rounded educational experience.

Priced at $1,299, with flexible payment plans, the program can typically be completed within 2-4 months. To enroll, you need a high school diploma or GED. For more information, visit University of Montana – Western.

Stepful – Online Pharmacy Technician Program

For residents of Montana seeking an online education pathway, the Stepful Pharmacy Technician Program offers a comprehensive solution. This 4-month program prepares you for the PTCB’s Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam and includes essential features for thorough preparation.

The program includes:

• Instructor-Led Zoom Classes: Real-time interactive classes covering essential topics.
• Clinical Sessions: Practical training sessions to apply theoretical knowledge.
• 1:1 Coaching: Personalized coaching to guide you through the learning process.

You benefit from flexible scheduling and job support services, which include resume assistance and interview preparation. There’s also an optional in-person externship in Montana for you to gain practical pharmacy experience.

A standout feature is Stepful’s 6-month job guarantee, offering a full tuition refund if you do not receive a job offer within six months post-certification. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for both PTCB and National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification exams, covering pharmacy laws, pharmaceutical calculations, medication safety, and drug classifications.

Total tuition is $1,992, payable in eight biweekly installments with no interest. Learn more about this program at Stepful.

Choosing the Right Pharmacy Technician Program in Billings MT

Selecting the ideal program for you involves careful consideration of several factors. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies. This ensures the quality of education and makes you eligible for national certification exams.
2. Curriculum: Look for programs with a well-rounded curriculum covering vital topics such as pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, and patient communication.
3. Duration: Choose a program that fits your timeline and career objectives. Whether it’s a short-term certification or a comprehensive course, ensure it aligns with your goals.
4. Cost: Evaluate tuition fees and additional costs for textbooks and supplies. Consider programs offering flexible payment plans or financial aid.
5. Format: Decide between online or in-person classes based on your learning style and schedule. Online programs often offer more flexibility to accommodate your needs.
6. Hands-On Training: Programs with lab work, clinical externships, or experiential training provide invaluable real-world experience essential for employment.
7. Certification Preparation: A program that prepares you for the PTCB or NHA certification exams enhances your employability.
8. Job Placement Support: Look for programs offering robust job support services, such as career counseling, resume assistance, and job placement guarantees.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a program that aligns perfectly with your educational needs and career aspirations, paving the way for a successful journey as a pharmacy technician.

Conclusion: Find Your Ideal Program

Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician Program in Billings MT can significantly impact your career trajectory in healthcare. Each option listed here—from MSU Billings, City College, Charter College to online programs like those from the University of Montana – Western and Stepful—offers unique advantages in terms of curriculum, hands-on training, and certification preparation.

Take the next step by evaluating each program’s details and aligning them with your career goals. Start your exciting journey today by visiting the links provided for more information on each program. Invest in your future and become a skilled pharmacy technician ready to make a difference in healthcare.