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Feeling overwhelmed by endless choices for Pharmacy Technician Programs in Alexandria VA? You’re not alone.
This article narrows down the top programs in Alexandria, VA, offering you a focused overview of the best options to jumpstart your career in healthcare.
We cover the essential details and unique features to help you make an informed decision.
Inova – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Inova Pharmacy Technician Training Program in Alexandria, VA, is designed to equip you with essential skills for a successful pharmacy career. This 10-week course offers hands-on training, an extensive lecture series, and preparation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
Program Highlights:
- Eligibility: High school diploma or GED required; no prior pharmacy experience needed.
- Compensation: Full-time benefits and pay during training.
- Job Placement: Successful completion leads to full-time positions as a pharmacy technician within Inova Health System.
- Curriculum: Covers pharmaceutics, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pharmacy operations, billing, inventory control, compounding, unit-dose packaging, communication, and calculations.
Post-certification, your employment opportunities expand to various settings, like hospitals and retail pharmacies.
Inova’s program also partners with Virginia Commonwealth University and Shenandoah University, enriching your learning experience with additional educational resources.
AlliedRx Training – Pharmacy Technician Program
AlliedRx Training offers a tailored Pharmacy Technician Program in Alexandria, VA, aimed at preparing you for a rewarding healthcare career. This program covers extensive medication knowledge, pharmacology, medical terminology, pharmacy law, and dosage calculations.
Key Features:
- Flexibility: Both online and in-person classes available to suit your schedule.
- Accreditation: Approved by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy and accredited by organizations like NHA, AMT, and ASHP.
- Hands-On Experience: Real-world scenarios with patient care simulations and a virtual pharmacy.
- Financial Aid: Payment plans available to make tuition affordable.
- Certification: Prepares you thoroughly for certification exams with extensive resources and support.
By providing nationally recognized certifications, AlliedRx ensures you receive a thorough education and practical experience necessary for a successful pharmacy technician career.
West Potomac Academy – Pharmacy Technician Program
The West Potomac Academy offers a multi-level Pharmacy Technician Program in Alexandria, VA. Designed to give you practical knowledge and hands-on experience, this program prepares you for national certification and entry-level positions in the pharmacy sector.
Program Structure:
- Two Levels:
- Completion Certificate: Awarded after successful completion of both levels.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers pharmacy careers, FDA and DEA regulations, prescription processing, pharmacy calculations, infection control, and more.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares for exams like EXCPT Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) from the National Healthcare Association.
With a focus on real-world applications through clinical hours and practical training, the West Potomac Academy program ensures you are job-ready upon graduation.
By understanding and engaging with these programs, you can confidently start your journey to becoming a skilled pharmacy technician in Alexandria, VA. Each program offers unique features and support to meet your educational and career goals. For more details, follow the links provided and take the next step in your healthcare career today.
APS Career Center – Pharmacy Technician Certification
The APS Career Center Pharmacy Technician Certification program offers a robust curriculum tailored to equip you with the essential skills needed in the pharmacy field. This one-year, 2-credit program is meticulously structured to align with Board of Pharmacy requirements.
Key Features:
- Core Topics: In-depth coverage of pharmacy terminology, drug classifications, common disease treatments, and basic microbiology and chemistry.
- Practical Learning: Classroom exercises and field trips to real-world pharmacy environments.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for state or national Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exams.
- Career Prospects: Opens multiple career pathways in hospital, retail, IV room, chemotherapy, nuclear, and specialized pharmacies.
The program emphasizes the growing demand for pharmacy technicians, projected to increase by 32% over the next decade. APS Career Center is committed to inclusiveness, ensuring equal access for all students.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
When searching for Pharmacy Technician Programs in Alexandria, VA, it’s essential to consider several vital factors to ensure the program aligns with your career goals and lifestyle.
- Accreditation:
- Program Length:
- Cost:
- Curriculum:
- Job Placement and Support Services:
Consider these factors to select a pharmacy technician program that best suits your educational needs and career aspirations.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician Program in Alexandria, VA, is a crucial step in your path toward a rewarding career in healthcare. Each program we discussed offers unique features and benefits tailored to prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exams and the workforce.
To further explore your options:
- Visit the program websites for more detailed information.
- Consider visiting campuses to experience the learning environment firsthand.
- Speak with current or past students to gain insights into the program’s strengths and challenges.
- Enroll in the program that aligns best with your personal and professional goals.
By taking these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling career as a pharmacy technician. Start your journey today and make an informed choice about your education and future career.