Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Baltimore, Columbia, and Germantown.
Searching for the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Maryland but feeling overwhelmed?
This article narrows down the top options, spotlighting programs with accredited training, practical experience, and strong job placement rates.
We’ve done the research to help you find the ideal path to becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Maryland.
Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services offers a Pharmacy Technician Training program through a partnership with CVS Health and the Community College of Baltimore County. Designed primarily for job seekers with disabilities, this program prepares you to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician.
This unique training consists of:
- Classroom Study: A 14-week course covers CVS-specific programs, procedures, inventory management, and prescription medication measurements.
- Mock Pharmacy Practice: Experience hands-on training in a simulated CVS pharmacy environment.
- Externship: A 6-week externship in CVS pharmacies throughout Maryland helps you apply your knowledge in real-world settings.
Requirements: To participate, you must be 18 years or older, hold a high school diploma or GED, and pass a drug screen and background check.
This program not only emphasizes inclusivity and practical experience but also aids in local employment within CVS pharmacies.
For further details, visit the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services website.
College of Southern Maryland – Pharmacy Technician Program
The College of Southern Maryland offers an accredited Pharmacy Technician Program that prepares you to work under licensed pharmacists.
Key Features:
- Accreditation: In candidacy for ASHP/ACPE accreditation, fulfilling Maryland Board of Pharmacy prerequisites.
- Exams: Graduates qualify for the PTCE or ExCPT exams.
- Success Rate: Since 2010, the program boasts a 100% graduation and pass rate on the Maryland exam, transitioning to PTCE in the 2019-2020 year.
- Cost: Approximately $5,200 plus additional expenses for books, supplies, and exams.
- Professional Training: Utilizes PioneerRx Pharmacy Software for realistic training.
Outcomes focus on professionalism, ethics, patient care, and inventory management. Always verify health records, CPR certification, and background check requirements, which may affect employment.
To learn more, please visit the College of Southern Maryland’s Pharmacy Technician Program.
Prince George’s Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Prince George’s Community College provides a 15-week Pharmacy Technician Program tailored for entry-level positions. Approved by the Maryland Board of Pharmacy, the program ensures you’re ready for both Maryland state certification and the PTCE exam.
Program Highlights:
- Curriculum: Covers prescription processing, compounding techniques, inventory management, and legislative requirements.
- Job Prospects: Strong outlook with 22,400 job openings projected annually and a median wage of $39,759 in Prince George’s County.
- Certification Preparations: Ensures readiness for state and national certification through robust coursework.
This program excels in preparing you for diverse pharmacy environments, securing your future in this growing field.
Contact the program coordinator, Rhonda Patterson, for registration details at Prince George’s Community College.
The Johns Hopkins Health System – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Johns Hopkins Health System offers a top-tier Pharmacy Technician Training program. Supported by the Department of Pharmacy, it adheres to ASHP and ACPE standards to ensure high-quality training.
Highlights:
- Structure: Two annual classes with training at various JHHS sites.
- Tuition: Covered by the Department of Pharmacy.
- Employment: Requires a post-completion work commitment at JHHS or reimbursement of training costs.
- Success Rates: 100% pass rate on the final exam and a 98% completion rate.
This program is a strong match if you are committed to a healthcare career, providing a solid professional foundation and excellent job prospects within JHHS.
For more information, visit the Johns Hopkins Health System’s program page.
Allegany College of Maryland – Pharmacy Technician Program
Allegany College of Maryland offers a versatile Pharmacy Technician Program completed within one or two semesters, featuring classroom and skills lab training.
Key Elements:
- Internship: A 180-hour placement at a local pharmacy.
- Accreditation: Approved by the Maryland Board of Pharmacy and recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.
- Health Manpower Shortage Designation: Highlights the demand for pharmacy technicians.
The curriculum includes drug measurements, legal requirements, and pharmacy software usage. The program is accessible with open enrollment and faculty support.
For further details, visit Allegany College of Maryland.
Towson University – Pharmacy Technician Online Course
Towson University’s self-paced Pharmacy Technician Online Course is designed for completion within a year and offers substantial flexibility.
Program Features:
- Externship: A 100+ hour placement at a leading pharmacy chain enhances job prospects.
- Curriculum: Covers federal and state laws, ethics, terminology, and various pharmacy environments.
- Certification Prep: Includes a voucher for the PTCE exam.
- Cost: $2,999, inclusive of materials and the certification exam voucher.
Listed on the Maryland Eligible Training Provider List and WIOA-approved, the course offers potential tuition assistance.
This program provides comprehensive preparation for a career as a pharmacy technician. Reach out for more information through Towson University’s dedicated program page.
The Community College of Baltimore County – Pharmacy Technician Training Series
The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) offers a structured Pharmacy Technician Training Series. This program prepares you for entry-level roles and the national PTCB certification exam.
Key Components:
- Prerequisites: Includes courses such as Basic Math Skills for the Healthcare Worker.
- Core Training: Pharmacy Technician Training I and II cover essential knowledge and skills.
- Exam Prep: The final PTCB Exam Review Course ensures you are well-prepared for certification.
- Specialties: Additional training on medication history reconciliation and sterile compounding.
This series equips you with effective communication skills necessary for various pharmacy settings, including retail, hospital, and long-term care facilities. Note that criminal background checks may be required for employment eligibility.
To explore this program, visit the Community College of Baltimore County.
Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake – Pre-Certification Pharmacy Technician Program
Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, alongside CVS Health and Baltimore City Community College, offers an 18-week pre-certification program designed to prepare you for a pharmacy technician career.
Program Details:
- Training: Includes CPR, Pharmacy Calculations, and Pharmacy Theory.
- Clinical Phase: A 160-hour clinical experience with CVS Health.
- Flexible Learning: Available both in person and virtually for residents in certain Maryland regions.
Requirements: A high school diploma or GED, no criminal background, a 10th-grade education level assessment, and full COVID-19 vaccination.
This program offers comprehensive training to meet the prerequisites for the Maryland Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam, ensuring you are job-ready.
Check more details at Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake.
FORTIS Institute – Pharmacy Technician Program
The FORTIS Institute in Towson offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician Program designed to equip you with essential skills for the role.
Key Features:
- Curriculum: Includes prescription processing, pharmaceutical calculations, drug interactions, and legal responsibilities.
- Career Services: Offers career services for job placement and lifetime employment assistance.
- Flexibility: Tuition costs vary, and financial aid assistance is available.
This program ensures you are well-prepared for roles in retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies, making you workforce-ready upon completion.
Visit FORTIS Institute’s Pharmacy Technician Program for more information.
Morgan State University – Pharmacy Technician Online Career Training
Morgan State University offers a comprehensive online Pharmacy Technician Career Training program. This program prepares you for the PTCE National Certification exam and includes externship opportunities with leading pharmacy chains.
Program Details:
- Curriculum: Covers medication dispensing, pharmacy laws, ethics, and pharmaceutical calculations.
- Externship: Provides real-world experience with leading pharmacy chains.
- Flexibility: Fully online, self-paced format with completion within a year.
Upon completion, you will be prepared for the PTCE and state licensure applications. This affordable and practical option is supported by experienced instructors offering substantial guidance.
For more details, visit Morgan State University’s program page.
How to Choose the Best Pharmacy Technician Program in Maryland
Selecting the best Pharmacy Technician program in Maryland involves considering several key factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by ASHP or ACPE. This is essential for meeting certification and licensure requirements.
- Curriculum: Review the coursework to confirm it covers state and federal laws, practical skills, and exam preparation.
- Cost: Evaluate tuition fees and additional costs for materials and exams. Look into potential financial aid or tuition assistance options.
- Career Support: Look for programs offering job placement services, externship opportunities, or ongoing career assistance.
- Flexibility: Consider the program formats available (in-person, online, or hybrid) and choose the one that fits your schedule, particularly if you need to juggle work or other responsibilities.
- Success Rates: Check the program’s graduation and exam pass rates as indicators of quality and efficacy.
- Student Support: Ensure the program provides adequate guidance and support from instructors and advisors.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and educational needs.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
Deciding on the right Pharmacy Technician program is a crucial step towards a rewarding career. Explore the details of each recommended program and consider your personal circumstances and career aspirations. Visit the respective program websites for more information or contact their admissions offices for guidance.
Your future in the healthcare field awaits—take the next step to become a certified pharmacy technician today.