Not in East Los Angeles? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in El Monte, Elk Grove, Escondido, Fairfield, Fontana, Fremont, Fresno, Fullerton, Garden Grove, and across California.
Considering a career in pharmacy?
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician Program in East Los Angeles CA can set you on the path to success.
This article will highlight the best programs, focusing on their unique offerings, accreditation, and hands-on training opportunities.
Discover how to make an informed decision for your future in pharmacy technology.
East Los Angeles Occupational Center – Pharmacy Technician Program
Choosing the right training program is crucial in your journey to becoming a pharmacy technician. The East Los Angeles Occupational Center (ELAOC) offers a structured and accredited program designed to prepare you for work in various pharmacy settings.
Here’s what makes ELAOC’s program stand out:
- Accreditation: Recognized by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), ensuring high educational standards.
- Duration: One semester, encompassing 600 hours of training.
- Curriculum: Offers a broad spectrum of courses encompassing medication dispensing, pharmacy calculations, pharmacology, ethics, pharmacy law, and patient safety.
- Hands-On Training: Includes clinical externships in retail and hospital pharmacies under the supervision of licensed pharmacists.
- Certification Readiness: Successful completion qualifies you to register with the California State Board of Pharmacy and sit for the National Certification Exam.
- Experienced Faculty: Guided by instructors with extensive professional experience.
- Affordability: Financial assistance options are available for eligible students.
The pass rate and effectiveness of ELAOC’s program make it an excellent choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians in East Los Angeles CA.
Cal State LA Downtown – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Cal State LA Downtown offers a swift, 10-week accelerated Pharmacy Technician Program. This program is ideal if you want a faster route to entering the field.
Key features of Cal State LA Downtown’s offering include:
- Duration and Structure: A 10-week intensive program.
- Curriculum: Includes pharmacology, pharmacy law, compounding, medication safety, quality assurance, order entry, billing, and more.
- Certification Preparedness: Aligns with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) Blueprint, reinforcing the necessary skills.
- Delivery Mode: Fully virtual via live synchronous Zoom sessions.
- Cost: Priced at $1,399, with additional costs for textbooks.
- Recognition: Though not accredited, it is recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Without financial aid, the program offers free training opportunities through local workforce boards for those unemployed. This makes Cal State LA Downtown’s program accessible and efficient for quickly starting a career in pharmacy technology.
East Los Angeles College – Pharmacy Technology Program
The East Los Angeles College (ELAC) offers a robust Pharmacy Technology Program under the leadership of Monica Thurston, Ed.S., MBA, RHIA. ELAC’s emphasis on detailed curriculum and practical training makes it a compelling option.
Highlights of the ELAC program are:
- Curriculum: Courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Law and Ethics, and Pharmacy Calculations.
- Hands-On Training: Provides practical experience in multiple pharmacy settings.
- Faculty Expertise: Guided by knowledgeable professionals with real-world experience.
It should be noted that as of March 1, 2022, the program isn’t accepting new applications and is currently conducting a teach-out. Prospective students should contact the program director for further details. Despite this, ELAC’s program remains reputable for its intricate curriculum and practical training approach.
East Los Angeles College – Pharmacy Technology Program (iCanGoToCollege)
The East Los Angeles College Pharmacy Technology Program through iCanGoToCollege is a strong choice for students eager to become pharmacy technicians.
Key aspects of this program include:
- Curriculum: Covers pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, drug classification, medication safety, and pharmacy operations.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for the California State Board of Pharmacy registration and the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
- Hands-On Experience: Provides clinical externships at local pharmacies, enhancing practical skills.
- Flexible Scheduling: Designed to accommodate students’ varying schedules, typically completed in two semesters.
- Experienced Faculty: Instructors bring substantial industry knowledge to the classroom.
This program ensures a comprehensive education and practical experience, setting you up for a successful pharmacy technician career.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
Making a well-informed choice is crucial when selecting a Pharmacy Technician program. Here are essential factors to keep in mind:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by reputable organizations like the ASHP. Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards.
- Curriculum: Ensure the program covers key areas such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, medication safety, and inventory management.
- Hands-On Training: Clinical externships in real pharmacy settings provide invaluable practical experience.
- Faculty Expertise: Instructors with industry experience offer insights that can guide your educational journey and career.
- Cost: Consider the overall cost and explore financial assistance options. Value for money is important.
- Job Placement Rates: Investigate the program’s success in placing graduates in jobs, as this reflects the quality of education and training.
- Schedule Flexibility: Ensure the program offers schedules that fit around your other commitments, whether it’s work or family obligations.
Evaluating these factors can help you select a Pharmacy Technician Program that aligns with your goals and provides the necessary skills and knowledge for your career.
Conclusion
Selecting the right Pharmacy Technician Program in East Los Angeles CA is a pivotal step towards a fulfilling career in the pharmaceutical industry. Whether you choose the accredited and comprehensive training offered by the East Los Angeles Occupational Center, the accelerated and flexible program through Cal State LA Downtown, or the robust curriculum at East Los Angeles College, it’s essential to consider all factors to make the best decision.
Begin exploring your options today and take a significant step toward your new career as a pharmacy technician.