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Are you looking to jumpstart your career as a pharmacy technician in Fresno, CA?
This article highlights the top pharmacy technician programs in Fresno, CA.
Whether you’re seeking hands-on training or hybrid models, we’ve curated the best options to help you make an informed choice and kickstart your journey in the pharmaceutical field.
Fresno City College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at Fresno City College offers a robust 268-hour course designed to prepare you effectively for licensure through the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Here’s what stands out:
- Classroom Instruction: The program includes 148 hours of classroom instruction that cover vital topics such as pharmacy math, pharmacology, and medication distribution.
- Clinical Experience: You’ll also gain 120 hours of clinical experience, essential for real-world application in retail and hospital pharmacy settings.
- Skill Emphasis: Courses are designed to enhance your math skills and understanding of retail and hospital pharmacy procedures.
- Requirements: To enroll, you need a high school diploma or GED and must pass a criminal record check.
- Cost: This fee-based program offers financial assistance options to help ease the burden of tuition.
Fresno City College ensures that students are well-prepared for successful careers in various pharmacy settings.
Sanger Adult School – Pharmacy Technician Certification Training Program
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Training Program at Sanger Adult School consists of 182 hours of classroom instruction plus a 120-hour externship.
What makes it compelling:
- Classroom Training: A thorough 182-hour curriculum covers essential areas of pharmacy procedures.
- Externship: The 120-hour externship provides substantial hands-on experience.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are well-prepped to take certification exams through the PTCB and NHA.
- Partnerships: Collaborations with CVS Pharmacy and WIOA approval ensure quality and accountability.
- Admission Requirements: You must have a high school diploma to enroll.
- Program Cost: At $2,995, the program includes CPR certification and externship placement.
With a structured curriculum and practical externship, Sanger Adult School equips students for varied roles in pharmacy settings.
CalRegional – Pharmacy Technician Program
CalRegional’s Pharmacy Technician Program in Fresno offers a hybrid learning model, marrying the convenience of online lectures with the practicality of hands-on lab work.
Highlights include:
- Hybrid Model: The program is composed of 50% online lectures and 50% lab work, ideal for balancing study with other commitments.
- Externship: A guaranteed 120-hour externship gives you real-world pharmacy experience.
- Certification Preparedness: You’ll be well-prepared for the NHA certification exam upon completion.
- Cost Coverage: Tuition fees cover both the program and certification exam costs.
- Earnings Potential: Given that the average pharmacy technician salary in California is $52,090, this program positions you for a lucrative career.
- Immediate Job Prospects: Immediate externship placement helps optimize your job search post-certification.
CalRegional provides a fast-track route to becoming a certified pharmacy technician, blending flexibility with hands-on training.
UEI College – Pharmacy Technician Diploma Program
UEI College’s Pharmacy Technician Diploma Program is designed with both theoretical and practical training elements to prepare you for various settings in the industry.
Noteworthy features:
- Program Duration: This 10-month program includes rigorous theoretical and practical training.
- Externship Experience: An externship ensures you gain real-world experience.
- Hybrid Flexibility: The program’s hybrid format offers convenience without sacrificing quality.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, ensuring high standards.
- Financial Aid: Options are available for students who qualify.
- Career Readiness: Graduates are equipped to work in retail, hospital, and compounding pharmacies.
UEI College focuses on delivering a quality education that meets the diverse needs of aspiring pharmacy technicians.
Edu2Go – Fresno Pharmacy Technician Certification Course
The Edu2Go Pharmacy Technician Certification Course offers a comprehensive mobile-ready program, preparing you thoroughly for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
Key points include:
- Certification Focus: The program aims to ensure you are well-prepared for the PTCE.
- Course Content: Covers reading prescriptions, pharmaceutical calculations, and ethical pharmacy practices.
- Accessibility: The mobile-ready course allows you to study anytime, anywhere.
- Cost and Payments: With a course fee of $3,000, installment payment options are available to ease financial pressure.
- Resources Included: The course includes video presentations, textbooks, and the opportunity for an optional externship.
Edu2Go’s program offers flexibility and comprehensive preparation for industry-recognized certification exams.
By focusing on these detailed features, each program ensures that you are adequately prepared for a thriving career as a pharmacy technician, equipped with the essential skills and knowledge required in the field.
San Joaquin Valley College – Pharmacy Technology Program
The Pharmacy Technology Program at San Joaquin Valley College is a great option for those looking to enter the pharmaceutical field quickly. This program stands out for several reasons:
- Program Length: The program can be completed in just 9 months, which allows students to enter the workforce promptly.
- Curriculum: It covers vital topics such as pharmacy math, clinical applications, and pharmacy law, ensuring a well-rounded education.
- Accreditation and Approval: The program is accredited by the WASC and approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), which guarantees that it meets high educational standards.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are prepared to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and HIPAA Certification, making them well-prepared for the job market.
- Hands-On Training: Practical training is a crucial component, which ensures that students are ready for real-life work environments.
San Joaquin Valley College is a solid choice for those who want comprehensive training and quick entry into the pharmacy technician field.
V-TECS – Pharmacy Technician Program
V-TECS provides a detailed Pharmacy Technician Program designed to prepare students for a fulfilling career in the field.
What you get:
- Extensive Training: The program consists of 760 hours, resulting in 34.5-semester credits.
- Diverse Curriculum: Covers essential areas like retail and hospital pharmacy procedures, pharmacology, and compounding.
- Quick Completion: Designed for a 10-month completion, this program is perfect for those who want to start working as soon as possible.
- Cost: Priced at $19,900, the program provides detailed and in-depth training.
- Comprehensive Education: The curriculum is tailored to ensure that you gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to excel in various pharmacy settings.
V-TECS offers an intense pharmacy technician training program that is thorough and well-rounded, making it excellent for students seeking quick career opportunities.
Institute of Technology – Pharmacy Technician Program
Institute of Technology’s Pharmacy Technician Program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training, designed to prepare you for a successful career.
Key aspects:
- Hands-On Training: Focuses on crucial skills like customer service, medication preparation, and understanding pharmacy law.
- Partnerships: The program partners with PioneerRx, ensuring that you are adept with the industry’s leading software.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are eligible to pursue national certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
- Track Record: With a 43% graduation rate and 67% employment rate, students have strong prospects for success post-graduation.
- Accessibility: Detailed information on program costs is available online, making financial planning straightforward.
The Institute of Technology equips students with essential skills and practical experience, making it a valuable program for aspiring pharmacy technicians.
College of the Sequoias – Pharmacy Technician Program
College of the Sequoias offers a robust Pharmacy Technician Program designed to thoroughly prepare students for the workforce.
Features include:
- Duration: The program spans two semesters, totaling 24 units.
- Externship: Includes a practical externship in the spring semester, providing hands-on experience in a real-world setting.
- Certification Preparedness: Graduates receive a Certificate of Achievement and are eligible for state licensure and Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exams.
- Partnerships: Trains students with PioneerRx, ensuring proficiency with top-notch pharmacy management software.
- Cost Transparency: Though specific program costs are not detailed online, the program focuses on providing an affordable and quality education.
The College of the Sequoias’s program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as pharmacy technicians.
What to Look for in a Pharmacy Technician Program
Selecting the right program can be overwhelming, but focusing on key aspects can help streamline your decision-making process. Here’s what to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies, such as the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Accreditation guarantees program quality and compliance with industry standards.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Look for programs that cover essential subjects like pharmacology, pharmacy law, and hands-on training. A well-rounded curriculum prepares you for various roles in the pharmacy field.
- Hands-On Training Opportunities: Externships and practical training are crucial. They provide real-world experience, making it easier to transition into your career.
- Job Placement Assistance: Programs that offer job placement services can significantly enhance your employment prospects post-certification. These services often include resume building, interview preparation, and job search assistance.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare costs and available financial aid options. Some programs might be more affordable than others, but also consider the quality of education and additional services offered.
By focusing on these factors, you can select a pharmacy technician program that meets your needs and sets you up for success.
Final Thoughts on Pharmacy Technician Programs in Fresno CA
Choosing the right pharmacy technician program is a crucial step toward a rewarding career in the pharmaceutical field. Each program listed here offers unique features and benefits, from fast-track options to comprehensive training programs. Take the time to assess your needs, compare the highlights, and choose the program that aligns with your career goals and lifestyle.
Explore the programs in detail by visiting their links provided, and take the first step toward becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Fresno, CA. Your future in pharmacy starts with the right education.