Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Boise City, Meridian, and Nampa.
Are you seeking the best path to becoming a pharmacy technician in Idaho? Look no further.
This guide highlights the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Idaho, detailing courses that equip you with the skills and certification needed for a successful career in pharmacy.
The College of Western Idaho – Pharmacy Technician Program
The College of Western Idaho (CWI) provides a top-tier Pharmacy Technician program in collaboration with CareerStep. This program is perfect for those who want to dive into the high-demand career in pharmacy while maintaining flexibility in their studies. You can learn more about the program on their website.
Key Features
- Convenience and Flexibility: The program offers a self-paced learning structure, allowing you to complete it in as little as four months or extend it to twelve months depending on your personal schedule.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Topics like medication dispensing, pharmacy law and ethics, and patient interactions are thoroughly covered.
- Practical Experience: Gain hands-on experience through lab work and an externship in a community retail pharmacy like Walgreens.
- PTCB Exam Preparation: Graduates are well-prepared to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Exam, ensuring national certification.
- Affordable Cost: The program costs $3,899, which is quite reasonable considering the depth and breadth of education provided.
Graduates are equipped to excel in various pharmacy settings, meeting the growing needs of the healthcare industry. The program’s structure ensures that you are not only certified but also job-ready.
Idaho State University – Pharmacy Technology Program
Idaho State University’s (ISU) Pharmacy Technology program is designed to prepare you for a successful career in both retail and institutional pharmacy settings, supervised by licensed pharmacists. You can explore the ISU program here.
Notable Aspects
- Diverse Curriculum: Covering anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pharmacy law, and the therapeutic classification of top-200 prescription drugs.
- Hands-on Training: Includes laboratory demonstrations and practice, along with practicum/externship placements, providing real-world experience.
- Nationally Accredited: Accredited by ASHP/ACPE, meeting the rigorous standards for pharmacy technician training programs.
- Certification Preparation: The program prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician National Certification Exam.
- 53 Credit Hours: Includes prerequisites, with an intake of 12-14 students each fall, ensuring focused and effective training.
Completing this program not only provides top-notch entry-level education but also opens doors for career advancement within various health and business technology fields.
The College of Southern Idaho – Pharmacy Technician Course
The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) delivers an in-depth Pharmacy Technician course suitable for various learning preferences, from in-person to online. Find out more about the CSI course.
Highlights
- Flexible Learning Formats: Offers both in-person and online classes over a sixteen-week period.
- Extensive Topics: Includes Pharmacy Law, Ethics, Healthcare Systems, Medical Terminology, Pharmacology, Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmaceutical Calculations.
- Certification Eligibility: Prepares you for the National Certification Exam for Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT exam).
- Affordable Fees: At $425 per person, it’s an economical option for those entering the pharmaceutical industry.
- Funding Options: Approved for Idaho Launch funding, potentially providing scholarships to qualifying students.
- Practical Training: Opportunities for work-based learning enhance hands-on skills, led by a seasoned pharmacist.
Located at the Health Sciences and Human Services Building in Twin Falls, Idaho, the course is designed to pivot you into a rewarding pharmacy career, whether you’re new to the workforce or have prior experience.
Idaho Medical Academy – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at Idaho Medical Academy is an excellent choice for gaining comprehensive training. Renowned for its quality instruction, this program prepares you for the dynamic field of pharmacy. Discover more about Idaho Medical Academy here.
Program Details
- Expert Instructors: Educators with extensive real-world experience in the pharmacy field.
- Essential Topics: Includes roles and responsibilities of a pharmacy technician, medical math, legal and ethical issues, professionalism, pharmacology, and human physiology.
- Certification Preparation: Focuses on preparing you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the PTCB.
- 6-Month Course: Offers online materials, required drug tests, background checks, CPR training, and all necessary fees for the National Certification Exam.
- Flexible Payment Options: Tuition can be paid in monthly installments after an initial deposit.
Graduating from this program ensures you are fully equipped to support pharmacists and excel in the pharmaceutical industry.
This completes the detailed review of the available Pharmacy Technician Programs in Idaho. Selecting the right program is essential for your career development, so consider these comprehensive options to kickstart your journey in the healthcare field.
Medical Career Academy – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Medical Career Academy offers a dynamic Pharmacy Technician Program that prepares students to support pharmacists effectively. This program is tailored for those looking to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. You can explore more details about the program here.
Program Highlights
- Hybrid Learning Model: Combines 4 hours of weekly in-class hands-on training with online educational materials.
- Comprehensive Skills Training: Teaches crucial skills such as vaccine administration techniques, pharmacy calculations for medication dosing and drug dilutions, and awareness of pharmacy law and ethics.
- Certification Preparation: Equips students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam, an essential step for entering the field.
- Program Duration and Cost: Completes in 5 months with a total fee of $2,500, including online course material and BLS CPR training.
- Financial Assistance: Approved training provider through the Idaho Department of Labor, offering financial help for eligible students.
Located in Meridian, Idaho, this program offers a well-rounded education and practical experience, paving the way for a successful career in pharmacy. For more information, visit their Pharmacy Technician Program page.
Stepful – Pharmacy Technician Program
Stepful’s Pharmacy Technician Program provides a fully online, streamlined educational path, preparing students for the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam. Learn more about Stepful’s Pharmacy Technician Program.
Key Features
- Fully Online: Allows you to learn at your own pace with instructor-led Zoom classes and clinical sessions, all from the comfort of your home.
- Comprehensive Prep: Prepares you for the PTCB and NHA certification exams through engaging coursework and practical clinical sessions.
- Job Assurance: Offers a money-back guarantee, assuring a full tuition refund if you don’t receive a job offer within 6 months of certification.
- Hands-on Externship: Includes an in-person, unpaid clinical externship in Idaho to provide real-world experience.
- Flexible Payment Plans: Tuition is divided into 8 monthly installments of $249, making it accessible for many budgets.
- Career Support: Dedicated 1:1 coaching and job support services to help you secure employment upon graduation.
With the median salary for pharmacy technicians in Idaho standing at $38,300 per year, the Stepful program’s combination of online flexibility and career support is an excellent option for aspiring pharmacy technicians. For full details, visit their program webpage.
Carrington College – Pharmacy Technology Program
Carrington College offers an accredited Pharmacy Technology Program designed to provide students with the skills necessary for a successful career as a pharmacy technician. Explore more about Carrington’s Pharmacy Technology Program.
Program Highlights
- Diverse Curriculum: Covers pharmacy calculations, pharmacology, prescription processing, and retail operations, including pharmacy software systems.
- Hands-on Externship: Offers practical experience through externships in real-world pharmacy settings.
- Flexible Options: Programs are available both on-campus and online, enabling you to choose the most convenient learning format.
- Accredited Institution: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, ensuring a high standard of education.
- Certification Readiness: Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) national certification exam, broadening their career opportunities.
While the tuition costs can vary, Carrington College provides a supportive learning environment with knowledgeable faculty. Prospective students are encouraged to contact their Student Finance Department for personalized financial plans. For more information, visit their program page.
How to Choose the Best Pharmacy Technician Program in Idaho
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program is crucial for your academic and career success. Here are some factors to consider to make an informed decision:
Key Considerations
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited. Accreditation means the institution meets high educational standards necessary for effective training and future employment.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Verify that the program covers essential topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, medical terminology, and pharmaceutical calculations.
- Hands-on Training: Look for programs that offer internships or externships. Practical experience is invaluable and enhances learning.
- Program Duration: Consider the length of the program and if it fits your schedule. Some programs offer flexible, self-paced options, while others have more rigid timelines.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Understand the total program fees and explore financial aid options or scholarships that might be available.
- Job Placement Rates: Check the program’s job placement rates to gauge how effective it is in helping students secure employment post-graduation. Higher rates often indicate strong industry connections.
- Student Testimonials and Reviews: Research what other students have to say about the program. Positive testimonials and reviews can give insights into the quality of education and support services provided.
Choosing the right pharmacy technician program involves considering these factors carefully to align with your career goals and personal circumstances.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion: Advancing Your Career as a Pharmacy Technician
Selecting the best Pharmacy Technician Program in Idaho is a pivotal step toward a rewarding career in the healthcare field. Each of the highlighted programs offers unique benefits and opportunities designed to prepare you thoroughly for certification and employment. Take the time to explore these options, consider your personal and professional needs, and invest in a program that will set you up for success.
By making an informed choice, you not only enhance your educational experience but also open the door to meaningful career opportunities in the thriving healthcare industry.