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Looking for the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Kent, WA?
You’re in the right place. This article highlights top-rated programs, comparing their key features to help you choose the ideal path for your career.
Find options that offer hands-on training, flexible schedules, and strong job placement support.
Read on to discover your future in pharmacy.
Renton Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at Renton Technical College is designed for those who are eager to start a rewarding career in pharmacy. This program equips you with essential skills, ensuring you’re ready for the job market upon completion.
- Practical Skills: You’ll learn to compound products, prepare intravenous solutions, calculate dosages, and use computers for order processing and record-keeping.
- Hands-On Training: Gain real-world experience with externships in retail and hospital pharmacies.
- Certification: Graduates need to pass the national certification exam to obtain a Washington State Board of Pharmacy license.
- Flexible Education Paths: Choose from a Certificate of Completion, an Associate of Applied Science degree, or an AAS-Transfer degree.
- Support for Veterans and TAA-eligible Workers: Benefit from specialized grants supporting your education.
The program’s clinical placements require proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Admission prerequisites include being over 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and fluency in English. You must also pass a nationwide criminal background check.
Courses cover:
- Pharmacy Fundamentals and Ethics: Understand the basics and ethical considerations.
- Pharmacology: Learn about different medications and their effects.
- Pharmacy Preparations: Develop hands-on skills for pharmacy tasks.
- Medical Terminology: Master the language of the field.
- Pharmacy Law and References: Stay informed about legal aspects and reference sources.
- Leadership and Customer Service: Enhance your professional demeanor.
The program is working on updating its accreditation with ASHP but remains recognized by the WA Department of Health and the Washington Pharmacy Board.
For the latest tuition details, connect with an adviser at Renton Technical College. This program is designed to deliver industry-standard training at an affordable cost, helping you achieve your career goals effectively.
North Seattle College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at North Seattle College is one of the most respected in the region, boasting an impressive 99.6 percent pass rate for its certification exam. Their approach blends comprehensive classroom instruction with extensive hands-on experience.
- High Pass Rate: Join a program where nearly every student passes the national certification exam.
- Extensive Externships: Engage in 432 hours of externship at community sites including retail and hospital pharmacies, specialized pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare services.
- State Accreditation: This program is accredited by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy.
- Modern Training: Utilize PioneerRx Pharmacy Software, used widely in independent pharmacies, to enhance your clinical and functional skills.
- Flexible Schedule: Classes are on-campus just two days a week during the second and third quarters, facilitating a good balance between studies and personal commitments.
The program supports professional growth through its alliance with the American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT) and the formation of the Washington State Association of Pharmacy Technicians (WSAPT).
Highly experienced faculty, all actively employed in pharmacies, bring current industry practices into the classroom. North Seattle College’s program meets all educational requirements for licensing/certification in Washington State.
Prospective students should contact the program directly to verify the latest information on program lengths and updates. By choosing North Seattle College, you’re ensuring a solid educational foundation and practical experience, setting you up for success as a pharmacy technician.
Both of these programs offer excellent opportunities to become a certified pharmacy technician, providing thorough training and practical experience.
Pima Medical Institute – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at Pima Medical Institute in Kent, WA is notable for its focus on both professional and clinical training. By offering real-world practice through hands-on learning, the program ensures students are well-prepared for their careers.
Key Program Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy laws and regulations, medication safety, and pharmacology.
- Certifiable Outcomes: Prepares you for the national certification exam, essential for employment.
- Accreditation: Pima Medical Institute is a recognized accredited institution.
- Career Services: Provides job placement support to help you find opportunities post-graduation.
- Flexible Learning: Specific program duration and class schedules aren’t listed online; contact the institute for more details.
Prospective students should communicate directly with Pima Medical Institute for detailed information on tuition, fees, and financial aid options. This program combines essential knowledge and practical experiences, setting up students for success in the pharmacy sector.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
Choosing the right pharmacy technician program involves evaluating several crucial factors. Here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited. Accreditation validates that the program meets industry standards, making you eligible for national certification exams.
- Hands-on Training: Look for programs that offer practical training. Externships or clinical placements help you gain real-world experience.
- Support Services: Opt for programs with strong job placement support. They can assist in securing positions shortly after graduation.
- Location: Consider the commute for on-campus training and the geographic reach of the program’s affiliations.
- Cost: Evaluate all expenses, including tuition, books, supplies, and certification exam fees. Financial aid and scholarships can be crucial.
- Flexibility: Assess whether the program offers part-time or evening classes, allowing you to manage personal or work commitments alongside your studies.
- Reputation and Reviews: Research testimonials and reviews from past students. Positive experiences from others can indicate the program’s effectiveness.
By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose a program that aligns with your professional goals and personal circumstances.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Embarking on a career as a pharmacy technician in Kent, WA starts with selecting the right educational program. The Renton Technical College Pharmacy Technician Program, North Seattle College Pharmacy Technician Program, and Pima Medical Institute Pharmacy Technician Program each offer unique features designed to prepare you for success in the field.
Next Steps:
- Research the programs in detail by visiting their official websites.
- Contact program advisers to ask specific questions and request additional information.
- Compare the key factors we’ve outlined to determine which program best meets your needs.
- Begin your application process once you’ve decided on the right program for you.
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling career as a pharmacy technician in Kent, WA.