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Want to become a pharmacy technician in Costa Mesa, CA?
Discover the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Costa Mesa, CA that can kickstart your career.
In this article, we highlight the best schools offering pharmacy technician programs with excellent training, experienced faculty, and strong job placement rates.
Get ready to find the perfect program that fits your career goals and start your journey in the healthcare industry.
Santa Ana College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Santa Ana College (SAC) offers an esteemed Pharmacy Technician Program that has been educating students since 1972. Located conveniently in Costa Mesa, CA, SAC has the distinction of being the first community college in the U.S. to receive accreditation from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) in 1984. This accreditation, which currently follows a six-year cycle, underscores the program’s high standards and commitment to excellence.
The curriculum at SAC is designed to thoroughly prepare you for employment across various pharmacy settings, including outpatient, inpatient, and home health care pharmacies. SAC’s program integrates PioneerRx software, allowing you to experience realistic and innovative pharmacy operations through simulated learning. This hands-on approach is invaluable for acquiring practical skills that you’ll need in the field.
- Program Length: The program can typically be completed in 12 months.
- Accreditation: ASHP-accredited, ensuring high educational standards.
- Training Focus: Emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through internships and use of PioneerRx software.
- Job Prospects: Forbes Magazine highlights pharmacy technician as a high-growth career, projecting a 30.6% increase in job openings in the coming years.
To get detailed and current information about tuition, schedules, and application requirements, visit the Santa Ana College website.
American Career College – Pharmacy Technician Program
American Career College (ACC) in Costa Mesa, CA offers a robust Pharmacy Technician Program. The coursework is specifically designed to provide you with both foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful career. You’ll benefit from a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, set within a simulated pharmacy environment. This dual approach ensures you’re well-prepared to handle real-world scenarios efficiently.
A notable feature of ACC’s program is the externship component, which allows you to apply your skills in an actual pharmacy setting. This externship is critical for gaining the confidence and experience employers value. Additionally, the program prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), a key requirement for certification and employment in many states.
- Program Length: Approximately 9 months, providing a quick path to employment.
- Key Training Areas: Medication preparation, prescription processing, inventory management, and customer service.
- Externship: Real-world experience through externships in actual pharmacy settings.
- Certification Focus: Preparation for the PTCE to help you become certified.
ACC also offers support through its career services, helping connect graduates to job opportunities. Financial aid options are available for those who qualify, making the program accessible to many aspiring pharmacy technicians. For more details on tuition, course specifics, and admission criteria, visit the American Career College website.
By exploring these top pharmacy technician programs in Costa Mesa, CA, you’re taking a significant step toward a rewarding career in the healthcare sector. Both Santa Ana College and American Career College offer unique features that cater to various needs and preferences, ensuring you find a program that aligns with your career aspirations.
California College of Medicine and Science (CCMCC) – Pharmacy Technician Program
California College of Medicine and Science (CCMCC) offers a flexible and rigorous Pharmacy Technician program in Costa Mesa, CA. Approved by the California State Board of Pharmacy, this program is designed to prepare you comprehensively for a career as a pharmacy technician.
Key Highlights of CCMCC’s Pharmacy Technician Program:
- Flexible Scheduling: Weekday and weekend classes available to accommodate different schedules.
- Accreditation: Recognized by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
- Hands-On Training: Clinical externships provide real-world experience in a pharmacy setting.
- Curriculum Focus: Coursework covers pharmacy calculations, prescription processing, medication dispensing, and pharmacy law and ethics.
CCMCC also offers training in various other healthcare programs such as Clinical Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, Medical Administrative Assisting, and more. This variety shows CCMCC’s commitment to diverse healthcare education.
For detailed information about tuition, schedules, and admission requirements, visit the California College of Medicine and Science website.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician program is crucial for your future career. While the programs mentioned above are among the best available in Costa Mesa, CA, you should consider several factors to make an informed decision.
1. Accreditation
Ensure the program is accredited by reputable organizations. Accreditation is important for validating the quality of education.
2. Curriculum
The curriculum should cover essential areas such as:
- Medication Dosage and Calculations
- Prescription Processing
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics
- Patient Care
- Inventory Management
Certification exam preparation, such as for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), is an added advantage.
3. Faculty Expertise
Look for programs with experienced instructors who have a professional background in pharmacy. They provide valuable insights and mentorship.
4. Hands-On Training
Programs that include clinical externships offer practical experience, making you job-ready.
5. Job Placement Rates
High job placement rates indicate a program’s success in helping graduates secure employment. Institutions that provide career services and have strong industry connections are beneficial.
6. Tuition Costs and Financial Aid
Review the total cost of the program, including additional fees. Financial aid options can alleviate the financial burden.
7. Flexibility
If you have other commitments, consider programs that offer flexible class schedules, such as evening or weekend classes.
8. Campus Visits and Testimonials
Visit campuses and speak with alumni or current students to gain personal insights into the program’s environment and effectiveness.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Selecting the right Pharmacy Technician program requires careful evaluation of various factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty, hands-on training, job placement rates, tuition costs, and flexibility. By researching and comparing these key elements, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your career aspirations.
For more detailed information and to explore your options further, visit the specific program websites provided above. Taking this step will bring you closer to embarking on a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician in Costa Mesa, CA.
Discover top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Costa Mesa, CA and start your healthcare career today!