Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Little Rock, and Springdale.
Looking to enter the healthcare field in Arkansas but unsure where to start?
Pharmacy Technician Programs in Arkansas offer excellent opportunities for a rewarding career.
This article highlights the top programs that provide the right mix of online and hands-on training to jumpstart your career as a certified pharmacy technician.
Discover the options available and choose the best fit for your goals.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock – Online Pharmacy Technician Course
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) offers an Online Pharmacy Technician Course that is ideal for remote learners aiming to break into the healthcare field. This course stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum, providing the foundational knowledge you need to become a pharmacy technician.
Key Features and Curriculum:
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
- Flexible Learning: Fully online, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Topics include pharmacy law, ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, and the role of pharmacy technicians in healthcare.
- Hands-On Experience: Includes an externship to provide real-world experience.
- Preparation for Certification: Prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
The program’s duration is adaptable, typically completed within a year or less. It is also competitively priced, making it accessible for many aspiring pharmacy technicians. For more details or to enroll, visit the UALR Online Pharmacy Technician Course.
University of Arkansas – Pharmacy Technician Online Training Program
The University of Arkansas (UARK) Pharmacy Technician Online Training Program is a self-paced course designed to help you master the skills required in a pharmacy setting.
Course Highlights:
- Duration: Six-month course.
- Self-Paced Learning: Allows you to complete the program at your own speed.
- Core Topics: Includes pharmacy terminology, prescription interpretation, medication administration, and inventory control.
- Certification Prep: Prepares you for national exams like PTCB and NWCA.
- Clinical Externship: Offers an optional volunteer clinical externship for hands-on experience.
- Inclusive Materials: The course fee includes e-Textbooks.
This program costs $1,299 and does not offer payment plans, but it covers crucial knowledge and skills required for a pharmacy technician role. Explore the program further at the UARK Pharmacy Technician Online Training Program.
NorthWest Arkansas Community College – Pharmacy Technician Course
The NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) Pharmacy Technician Course provides an extensive online curriculum tailored to prepare you for the PTCE and to earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.
Key Highlights:
- Accreditation: Aligns with PTCB standards.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers pharmaceutical terminology, anatomy, pharmacology, pharmacy laws, and pharmaceutical calculations.
- Hands-On Training: Includes a lab module for practical learning.
- Externship Opportunity: Offers an on-site practicum experience as an option.
- Instructional Materials: Required materials are included in the course fee.
This course offers robust training to make students well-equipped for certification and real-world scenarios. Learn more at the NWACC Pharmacy Technician Course.
SAU Tech – Pharmacy Tech Degree Program
SAU Tech offers a Pharmacy Tech Degree Program that provides rigorous training to prepare you for various roles within a pharmacy setting.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Training: Covers dispensing information, processing prescriptions, and preparing medications including IV medications.
- Core Skills: Students learn compounding, customer interaction, and automated dispensing.
- Career Pathways: A stepping stone for those planning to advance into nursing or other health sciences fields.
This program ensures you gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, making you job-ready upon graduation. For more details, visit the SAU Tech Pharmacy Tech Degree Program.
Goodwill – PharmaSeer Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Goodwill PharmaSeer Pharmacy Technician Training program combines traditional classroom experience with innovative online training.
Key Features:
- Hybrid Learning: Includes hands-on classroom training and access to PharmaSeer™ and PharmaSeer Math™.
- Additional Certifications: CPR certification and PersonAbility™ training for soft skills.
- Exam Preparation: Prepares you for national certification exams with two testing attempts included.
- Enrollment Requirement: A high school diploma copy is required.
- Financial Aid: Available for those who qualify.
This program offers a well-rounded approach to pharmacy technician training, equipping you with the skills you need to excel. Visit the Goodwill PharmaSeer Pharmacy Technician Training page for more detailed information.
Arkansas State University – Beebe Pharmacy Technician Program
The Arkansas State University – Beebe Pharmacy Technician Program is ideal if you seek a blend of classroom learning and real-world practice. This program is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), ensuring you receive quality education.
Program Highlights:
- Program Options: Offers a Certificate of Proficiency, Technical Certificate, and Associate of Applied Science.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers theory and practical aspects, including dispensing medications, managing inventory, and customer service.
- Job Placement: Boasts a 100% job placement rate, helping graduates secure employment.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students thoroughly for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
- Hands-On Experience: Real-world practice integrated into the curriculum with clinical externships.
This program equips you with the skills needed to excel in various pharmacy settings. For more information, visit the Arkansas State University – Beebe Pharmacy Technician Program.
Arkansas Tech University – Certificate of Proficiency in Pharmacy Technician
The Arkansas Tech University program offers a focused approach to becoming a certified pharmacy technician. This Certificate of Proficiency provides all the essentials to prepare for the PTCE.
Program Highlights:
- Credit Hours: 15 credit-hour curriculum designed for quick completion.
- Core Subjects: Includes medical terminology, pharmacology, and anatomy, ensuring a solid foundation.
- Accreditation: Meets the accreditation standards of the Higher Learning Commission.
- Skills Development: Emphasizes the practical skills needed to assist pharmacists and handle prescriptions.
- Flexible Learning: Designed for individuals needing an accelerated program.
This program is ideal if you want a quicker pathway into the pharmacy technician field. Visit the Arkansas Tech University page for more details.
Penn Foster – Pharmacy Technician Career Diploma
The Penn Foster Pharmacy Technician Career Diploma is an online, self-paced program accredited by ASHP/ACPE. It provides the necessary training and hands-on experience to become a certified pharmacy technician.
Program Highlights:
- Self-Paced: Allows flexibility to complete the program at your own pace.
- Accreditation: ASHP/ACPE-accredited program ensures high-quality education.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Topics range from pharmacology and pharmacy law to calculations and lab simulations.
- Externship: 130-hour externship at partner pharmacies like CVS for hands-on experience.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for the PTCE and ExCPT exams.
- Flexible Payment Options: Various tuition payment plans to accommodate different budgets.
This diploma program is ideal for those seeking flexibility. More information is available at the Penn Foster Pharmacy Technician Career Diploma.
Black River Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Black River Technical College offers a 14-week online Pharmacy Technician Program designed to prepare you for both the Arkansas Pharmacy Tech licensure exam and the PTCB certification.
Program Highlights:
- Program Length: 14-week duration for quick learning.
- Core Topics: Includes pharmacy calculations, medical terminology, inventory control, and billing.
- Affordability: Program cost is $800, including textbooks.
- Exam Preparation: Prepares students for licensure and certification exams.
- Practical Knowledge: Focuses on skills needed for immediate entry into the pharmacy field.
This program is an excellent choice for those looking for a short, intensive training period. Visit the Black River Technical College Pharmacy Technician Program for more details.
Tips for Choosing the Best Pharmacy Technician Program
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician Program in Arkansas can significantly impact your career trajectory. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a reputable body such as the PTCB or ASHP. This guarantees that the program meets industry standards.
- Curriculum Relevance: Look for a curriculum that prepares you for certification exams and includes practical skills training. A comprehensive course that covers pharmaceutical calculations, law, and anatomy is essential.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare the costs of various programs and explore financial aid options. Some programs offer flexible payment plans or scholarships, which can make education more affordable.
- Flexibility: If you have other commitments, such as work or family, consider programs that offer online or self-paced learning options.
- Hands-On Training: Practical experience through externships or lab modules is crucial. It helps you apply theoretical knowledge and enhances your job readiness.
By evaluating these factors, you can choose a program that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion: Start Your Pharmacy Technician Career in Arkansas
In conclusion, Pharmacy Technician Programs in Arkansas offer numerous pathways to embark on a rewarding healthcare career. Whether you prefer online flexibility, intensive short-term courses, or comprehensive degrees, there is a program to suit your needs. Explore the highlighted options and make an informed choice to kickstart your journey in the pharmacy field today.