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Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician in Columbus, OH?
Discover the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Columbus OH to kickstart your journey.
This article reviews top-rated programs, highlighting their unique features and benefits, helping you make an informed choice for your future career.
Columbus State Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Columbus State Community College
Columbus State Community College offers a well-rounded Pharmacy Technician Program designed to prepare you for both outpatient and inpatient pharmacy settings. This program is a great option for those looking to gain comprehensive skills and knowledge quickly.
The curriculum covers essential topics such as:
- Medical Abbreviations: Learn to accurately interpret medical shorthand.
- Prescription Writing and Interpretation: Understand the ins and outs of prescription documentation.
- Drug Forms: Gain knowledge about different pharmaceutical forms and their uses.
- Non-Sterile and Sterile Compounding: Master techniques in both forms of compounding.
The program typically takes two semesters to complete, spanning 26 to 32 weeks for full-time students. It includes didactic learning, simulated activities, and a 140-hour externship period required for ASHP accreditation. This externship ensures you get hands-on experience, solidifying what you’ve learned in a real-world setting.
Application deadlines are:
- Autumn Semester: August 1st
- Spring Semester: December 15th
Enrollees must undergo a background check and drug screening. Plus, updates to the plan of study ensure the program meets both state and federal requirements.
Columbus State Community College’s Pharmacy Technician Program prepares you thoroughly for various employment opportunities and certification exams. For more details, visit the official Columbus State Community College Pharmacy Technician Program page.
Central Ohio Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Certificate
Central Ohio Technical College offers a Pharmacy Technician Certificate program aimed to equip students with the necessary skills for pharmacy work. However, potential students should note that this program is currently being deactivated, and new applicants are not being accepted. Therefore, exploring alternative pharmacy technician programs in Columbus OH is advisable.
While the specifics of the curriculum are not detailed, students were previously required to achieve a minimum grade of C in technology courses aligned with the plan of study. Accreditation and education quality are paramount, so researching other operational programs that meet industry standards is essential.
For more information, you can visit Central Ohio Technical College Pharmacy Technician Certificate.
Ross Medical Education Center – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at Ross Medical Education Center offers extensive training aimed at preparing you for immediate employment in pharmacy settings. The program is structured to balance classroom instruction with practical, hands-on learning.
The curriculum includes:
- Pharmacy Calculations: Learn to perform accurate pharmaceutical calculations.
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understand the legal aspects and ethical considerations in the field.
- Medication Distribution Systems: Get acquainted with various methods of medication distribution.
- Sterile and Non-Sterile Compounding: Master the essential compounding techniques required by the industry.
- Medication Safety: Understand safety protocols to prevent medication errors.
One of the significant benefits of this program is its focus on externship opportunities, giving you real-world experience. The program also preps you for national certification exams, enhancing your credentials and job readiness.
Ross Medical Education Center supports its students with job placement assistance and career services, guiding you through the job search process.
For more details, check out the Ross Medical Education Center Pharmacy Technician Program.
Fortis College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Fortis College provides a specialized Pharmacy Technician Program aimed at preparing students for diverse roles in health care settings. The program spans over 35 weeks and includes both academic and experiential learning components.
The curriculum covers:
- Pharmacology: Learn about drug classifications and mechanisms of action.
- Patient Interaction: Training on effective communication and managing patient care.
- Pharmacy Operations: Operational skills in pharmacy software systems.
- Regulatory Compliance: Stay updated with the laws and regulations governing pharmacy practice.
- Inventory Management: Learn to manage pharmacy inventory and supplies efficiently.
The program includes an externship period, offering you hands-on experience essential for transitioning into the workforce. Fortis College ensures that students are well-prepared for certification exams, fostering better career prospects.
Visit the official page for more information: Fortis College Pharmacy Technician Program.
Franklin University – Pharmacy Tech Specialist Certificate
Franklin University offers a Pharmacy Tech Specialist Certificate tailored for those seeking flexibility in their education. This fully online program is designed to provide you with the requisite skills to excel in pharmacy settings and prep you for the PTCB exam.
Key aspects of the program include:
- Prescription Processing: Learn to accurately process prescriptions.
- Pharmacy Nomenclature: Get familiar with terminologies used in the pharmacy field.
- Dosage Calculations: Understand and perform complex dosage calculations.
- Advanced Roles: Topics like Medication Therapy Management and Chronic Care Management.
- Pharmacy Business Operations: Gain insights into HIPAA compliance, inventory management, and documentation.
The program is delivered through HD-quality video-based instruction, virtual simulations, games, and animations. It culminates in a shareable certificate and personalized support from a Student Success Advisor and Career Coaches, ensuring you’re job-ready upon completion.
Check out Franklin University’s Pharmacy Tech Specialist Certificate for more details on their official webpage.
For those seeking high-quality pharmacy technician programs in Columbus OH, these options provide a diverse array of learning experiences, practical training, and support services aimed at ensuring your success in the field.
Columbus Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Columbus Technical College provides a robust Pharmacy Technician Program that readies students with the necessary skills for various healthcare environments like community and institutional pharmacies. The program’s strong curriculum ensures a quality education that meets industry standards.
The coursework includes:
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Training to perform precise pharmaceutical calculations.
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understanding legal regulations and ethical issues in pharmacy.
- Medication Distribution Systems: Knowledge about different medication distribution systems.
- Sterile Compounding: Learning to create sterile pharmaceutical products.
- Medication Safety: Ensuring the safe handling and distribution of medications.
The program features clinical rotations where students gain real-world experience, applying their theoretical knowledge. Experienced faculty members provide support and guidance, while the college’s modern facilities offer hands-on training with up-to-date tools and technology.
This program also prepares students for national certification exams, which can greatly enhance employability and career growth opportunities. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students, making this program accessible to many.
For more information, visit Columbus Technical College Pharmacy Technician Program.
Delaware Area Career Center – High School Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Delaware Area Career Center offers a one-year Pharmacy Technician Training Program for high school students, recognized by the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy. This program prepares students for certification and employment in various pharmacy settings, including outpatient and inpatient hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities.
Key curriculum elements include:
- Drug and Medical Terminology: Mastering terminology used in the pharmacy field.
- Pharmacy Calculations: Training in essential pharmacy-related calculations.
- Dispensing Processes: Learning the steps involved in dispensing medications.
- Basic Pharmacology: Understanding the basics of pharmacology.
- Non-Dispensing Duties: Training in essential non-dispensing roles within the pharmacy.
Students complete certifications such as the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians, HIPAA Training Certificate, CPR First Aid, Fraud, Waste & Abuse Certificate, and OSHA 10-Hour Healthcare Credential.
This program incorporates hands-on learning, including First Aid, CPR, and AED training, and teaching students about commonly prescribed interventions, over-the-counter medications, and unit dose systems.
For more information or to schedule a campus tour, contact Mariellen Murray or visit the Delaware Area Career Center Pharmacy Technician Program.
How to Choose the Right Pharmacy Technician Program in Columbus OH
Choosing the best pharmacy technician program can shape your future career. Here are essential factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Verify that the program is accredited by reputable organizations like ASHP. Accreditation ensures that the curriculum meets industry standards.
- Curriculum: Examine the curriculum to make sure it covers critical areas such as pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy law and ethics, medication dispensing, and compounding.
- Hands-on Experience: Ensure the program includes externships or clinical rotations, providing practical experience in real pharmacy settings.
- Support Services: Evaluate the support services like career counseling, job placement assistance, and academic advising provided by the institution.
- Certification Preparation: Look for programs that prepare you for national certification exams like the PTCB, which can boost your employment prospects.
- Flexibility: Consider the flexibility of the program, especially if you have other commitments. Online programs can offer more flexibility to balance work, study, and personal life.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and explore financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and payment plans.
- Reputation: Research the program’s reputation through reviews, checking graduation and employment rates, and speaking with alumni.
Taking these factors into account will help you choose a pharmacy technician program in Columbus OH that aligns with your career aspirations and prepares you for success.
Conclusion: Steps to Your Future in Pharmacy
If you are ready to embark on a rewarding career in healthcare, selecting the right pharmacy technician program is the first step. Evaluate each program based on accreditation, curriculum, practical experience, support services, and cost. With the information provided, you can confidently choose a program that fits your goals and sets you on the path to becoming a skilled pharmacy technician in Columbus, OH. Get started today and take the next step towards your future in pharmacy.
By following the recommendations and exploring the top pharmacy technician programs in Columbus OH listed above, you are well on your way to finding the perfect fit for your educational and professional aspirations. Each program offers a unique mix of knowledge, skills, and experience, tailored to prepare you for a successful career in the healthcare industry.