Not in Fort Smith? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Fayetteville, Jonesboro, Little Rock, Springdale, and across Arkansas.
Are you aspiring to become a pharmacy technician but unsure where to start? Look no further!
This guide to Pharmacy Technician Programs in Fort Smith AR outlines top-rated programs that can kickstart your healthcare career.
From course content to certification opportunities, we cover essential details to help you make an informed decision.
Petra Allied Health – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Petra Allied Health Pharmacy Technician Program is a well-structured course based in Fort Smith, AR. It is designed to prepare you for various settings such as independent pharmacies, drug store pharmaceutical departments, and hospitals.
- Curriculum: The program covers safe medication handling, understanding the job duties of a pharmacy technician, and preparation for state board requirements.
- Cost: The program’s fee structure includes a $50 non-refundable registration fee, $1,100 tuition, and a $145 textbook cost, amounting to a total of $1,295. Additional charges include certification fees of $106.25.
- Enrollment: To enroll, you must complete a Class Registration Form, agree to terms in the Program Bulletin, and pass state and federal background checks. Financial assistance and payment plans are available to ease financial strain.
- Duration: A 48-hour program designed to be intensive and comprehensive.
Petra Allied Health aims to equip you with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge to succeed in this growing field.
Fort Smith Public Schools – Pharmacy Technician Course
The Fort Smith Public Schools Pharmacy Technician Course offers a balanced blend of online and in-class training.
- Format: The course is 80% online and 20% hands-on lab work. It covers essential topics like computer skills, job search techniques, resume building, and basic software usage.
- Duration: You can complete the course in 8-12 weeks, making it suitable for varying schedules.
- Certification: Upon completion, you will receive a pharmacy technician license, enabling you to work in different pharmacy settings, including retail, clinical, and hospital environments.
- Unique Features: The program includes job shadowing and a collaborative six-week ETS Praxis exam preparation to enhance your reading, writing, and math skills.
- Cost: Directly contact the Fort Smith Adult Education Center for detailed information on expenses.
This course focuses on career-readiness, ensuring you acquire the knowledge and skills required to excel as a pharmacy technician.
CVS Health – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The CVS Health Pharmacy Technician Training Program in Fort Smith, AR, offers a comprehensive and supportive path to becoming a pharmacy technician.
- Training: CVS Health provides intensive training that covers managing pharmacy workstations, filling prescriptions accurately, and delivering excellent customer service.
- Ethics: Emphasis is placed on compassionate care, ethical conduct, and patient confidentiality.
- Certification: The program includes all necessary registration, licensing, and certification as per state guidelines, ensuring that you are fully prepared for the role.
- Career Advancement: CVS Health offers ongoing career development, with opportunities to advance in clinical, technical, and insurance areas.
- Employee Benefits: Employees gain access to well-being programs, education assistance, free development courses, and discounts.
CVS Health’s commitment to improving healthcare quality, access, and affordability makes this an excellent choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians looking to grow in their careers.
Next, let’s explore the factors you should consider when choosing the right pharmacy technician program.
Petra Allied Health – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
The Petra Allied Health (PAHI) Pharmacy Technician Certification Program delivers a well-rounded educational experience for aspiring pharmacy technicians in Fort Smith, AR.
- Curriculum: The program covers essential topics such as medication preparation and dispensing, pharmaceutical calculations, inventory management, pharmacy law and ethics, and patient communication.
- Hands-on Training: It includes classroom instruction coupled with clinical externships to provide real-world experience.
- Certification Prep: The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
- Format and Cost: The tuition fee for this course is $1,055 with an initial payment requirement of $527.50. Flexible scheduling supports diverse student needs, ensuring everyone can benefit from personalized instruction.
With a focus on practical training and theoretical knowledge, PAHI ensures you are well-prepared to enter the workforce.
How to Choose the Right Pharmacy Technician Program
Choosing the best pharmacy technician program in Fort Smith, AR is key to your career success. To guide your decision, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited. Accreditation indicates the program meets industry standards and can provide quality education.
- Curriculum: Evaluate the curriculum to confirm it covers essential topics such as medication handling, pharmacy law, and patient communication.
- Hands-on Training: Look for programs that offer practical training opportunities, including lab work and externships, to gain experience.
- Job Placement Rates: Assess job placement rates and career support services to improve your chances of employment after certification.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Consider the tuition costs, availability of financial aid, and payment plans to find an option that fits your budget.
- Duration and Flexibility: Evaluate the program’s duration and scheduling flexibility to accommodate your lifestyle and commitments.
By considering these factors, you are more likely to find a program that suits your needs and helps you achieve your career goals.
Final Thoughts on Pharmacy Technician Programs in Fort Smith AR
Finding the right Pharmacy Technician Program in Fort Smith, AR can set you on the path to a rewarding career. Whether you’re seeking programs with robust hands-on training like those offered at Petra Allied Health or more flexible options like the course at Fort Smith Public Schools, each program has unique benefits tailored to different learning styles and career ambitions.
Take the time to explore the options discussed, assess your individual needs, and make an informed decision that will set you on the path to success in the growing field of pharmacy technology.