Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Centennial, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Greeley, Highlands Ranch, and Lakewood.
Searching for the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Colorado? Look no further.
Whether you’re aiming to work in retail or a hospital, this guide will help you identify top programs across the state.
We’ve evaluated these options based on curriculum, certification preparation, and hands-on training.
Start here to find a program that aligns with your career goals.
Front Range Community College – Advanced Level Pharmacy Technician Program
Front Range Community College (FRCC) offers an engaging Advanced Level Pharmacy Technician Program that prepares you for various pharmacy settings, including retail, hospitals, and mail-order pharmacies. The program focuses on:
- Hands-on training: This features experiential modules in hospital and community settings.
- Essential skills: You’ll learn to count, pour, weigh, and mix medications effectively.
- Certification preparation: The curriculum prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician National Examination, which is key for becoming licensed in Colorado.
The program is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). It also offers an apprenticeship pathway, enabling you to gain on-the-job training. Remember to verify any state-specific requirements if you’re considering employment outside Colorado. Overall, FRCC’s network connections and practical training are essential steps toward your pharmacy technician career.
Colorado Mesa University – Pharmacy Technician Program
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) offers both a Certificate and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Pharmacy Technician. The highlights of this program include:
- Program options: Choose from a one-year certificate program or a more extensive two-year AAS program.
- Hands-on experience: Internships in community and institutional pharmacies prepare you for diverse employment settings such as chain, independent, hospital, and mail-order pharmacies.
- Certification readiness: The program prepares you to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam, leading to national certification.
Due to high demand, early registration is advised. Additionally, completing prerequisite and essential learning courses is required before starting. CMU’s program equips you with flexible career opportunities, making it a strong option for aspiring pharmacy technicians.
Colorado Mountain College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Colorado Mountain College provides a 100% online Pharmacy Technician program, enhancing flexibility for your study schedule. Key features include:
- Flexible learning: Complete your coursework online at your own pace.
- Certification preparation: The curriculum prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
- Comprehensive topics: Courses cover pharmacy practices, ethics, and medical laws, ensuring you’re well-prepared for various roles.
Recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), this program sets you up to work in hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Support services such as faculty access, resources, and career assistance add value to this convenient option.
Denver Health – Pharmacy Technician Training and Education Program
The Denver Health Pharmacy Technician Training and Education Program is a unique blend of education and employment. This six-month program offers:
- Full-time employment: You’ll have full-time, benefitted employment while completing your training.
- Comprehensive training: 600 hours of online learning combined with experiential rotations in inpatient and outpatient settings.
- Certification goal: Graduates are prepared to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
To qualify, you need a high school diploma, be at least 18 years old, and pass a background check, among other requirements. An added bonus is the commitment to work at Denver Health for a minimum of 12 months after completing the program. This combination of education and practical experience provides a solid foundation for your pharmacy technician career.
Pueblo Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Pueblo Community College offers an engaging Pharmacy Technician program featuring:
- Diverse training: Includes classroom lectures, laboratory work, and hands-on experience in hospital and retail settings.
- Experienced instructors: Benefit from real-world knowledge imparted by seasoned industry professionals.
- Certification preparation: Prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
Admission requires passing a background check and drug screen. Note that licensure requirements vary by state, so ensure you meet your specific state’s conditions. The program focuses on providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing you for a successful pharmacy career.
PPSC – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) program is advanced-level and accredited by ASHP/ACPE. This program offers:
- Degree options: Choose between an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree or a Certificate Program.
- Experienced faculty: Courses are taught by healthcare professionals with extensive industry experience.
- Hands-on training: Practical on-the-job training is provided through externships.
Graduates have a high success rate on the national certification exam, making this program a robust choice for those pursuing pharmacy technician careers. PPSC prepares you for diverse pharmacy settings, equipping you with skills to excel in the field.
By exploring these Pharmacy Technician Programs in Colorado, you’ll be well on your way to a fulfilling career in a fast-growing field.
Pickens Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pickens Technical College Pharmacy Technician Program offers a thorough curriculum recognized for its rigorous training.
Key Features:
- Accreditation: Accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), ensuring high education standards.
- Hands-on Experience: Includes both classroom learning and practical experience in a simulated pharmacy environment.
- Clinical Practice: Students gain real-world experience through off-site clinicals in community pharmacy settings.
- Industry-Grade Equipment: Uses PioneerRx Pharmacy Software to simulate actual pharmacy tasks and operations, providing a realistic experience.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
This program equips you to work efficiently in various healthcare environments, making Pickens Technical College a valuable choice for those pursuing pharmacy technician careers.
Stepful – Online Pharmacy Technician Program
If you’re seeking a flexible learning path, the Stepful Online Pharmacy Technician Program offers a compelling option.
Key Features:
- Duration: A 4-month online program designed for rapid advancement into the field.
- Optional Externship: Includes an optional 160-hour in-person externship for practical experience.
- Instructor-Led Classes: Courses are taught through online instructor-led Zoom sessions, combining convenience with quality instruction.
- Certification Exam: Prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam, a key credential for employment.
- Support Services: Offers job placement support and partial scholarships. They even have a money-back guarantee if you don’t find a job within six months of graduation.
Stepful’s program is ideal if you want flexibility without compromising on the quality of your education.
Arapahoe Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Arapahoe Community College Pharmacy Technician Program stands out with its accredited curriculum, intensive training, and online options.
Key Features:
- Accreditation: Accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), ensuring high-quality education.
- Program Structure: Spans two semesters; includes an 8-week clinical externship in the second semester.
- Format: Offers online/hybrid courses with mandatory on-campus sessions.
- Certification Prep: Prepares graduates to take the national certification exam.
- Eligibility: Requires a clear background check, random drug screen, and specific immunizations.
With a mix of online flexibility and crucial in-person experience, Arapahoe Community College prepares you for diverse roles in the healthcare sector.
Pima Medical Institute – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pima Medical Institute offers a Pharmacy Technician Program that provides professional training across multiple states, including Colorado.
Key Features:
- Accreditation and Licensing: Nationally accredited and state-licensed, ensuring adherence to high educational standards.
- Delivery Methods: Available in on-ground and hybrid formats to suit various learning preferences.
- Comprehensive Skills Training: Covers essential skills like medication preparation, inventory management, and customer service.
- Real-World Experience: Includes a clinical externship component, allowing students to gather practical experience.
- Certification Prep: Graduates are prepared to take the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (CPhT).
Pima Medical Institute’s program equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful pharmacy career, offering flexibility and comprehensive training.
How to Choose the Right Pharmacy Technician Program in Colorado
Choosing the best Pharmacy Technician Program in Colorado involves evaluating several crucial factors to ensure the program aligns with your career goals and lifestyle. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by reputable bodies such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Accreditation ensures the education quality meets industry standards.
- Program Length and Format: Consider the duration and format of the program. Some programs offer quick completion times of about 4-6 months, while others take up to two years for an Associate degree. Decide whether you prefer in-person, online, or hybrid formats.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the total cost of the program, including tuition, fees, books, and other expenses. Check if the institution offers scholarships, financial aid, or payment plans.
- Certification Preparation: Ensure the program prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam or similar certification exams. Passing these exams is generally a prerequisite for employment.
- Hands-On Training: Practical experience is crucial. Look for programs that offer externships or clinical rotations in various pharmacy settings. This experience enhances your employability and skill set.
- Support Services: Investigate what kind of support services the program offers, such as job placement assistance, career counseling, and additional resources for certification preparation.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right program that provides an excellent education and sets you up for success in your pharmacy technician career.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion: Start Your Pharmacy Technician Career Today
Colorado offers a variety of top-notch Pharmacy Technician Programs to suit different needs and preferences. With the right program, you can gain the skills, experience, and certification necessary to excel in this rewarding field.
Now is the time to take action and embark on your healthcare career. Explore these programs, assess their features, and choose the one that best fits your goals and lifestyle.
Start your journey today by enrolling in a Pharmacy Technician Program in Colorado, and pave the way for a fulfilling and successful career in pharmacy.