Pharmacy Technician Programs in Little Rock AR

Looking to jumpstart a career in healthcare?

Explore the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Little Rock AR.

This guide highlights top online courses, professional development options, and specialized training to help you make an informed choice.

Discover programs offering industry-recognized certifications and practical skills essential for success.

University of Arkansas at Little Rock – Online Pharmacy Technician Course

The Pharmacy Technician course at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is tailored to prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) National Certification exam.

Here are some key aspects to consider about this program:

• Curriculum: You will cover essential topics including federal and state laws, pharmacy law and ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, and the role of pharmacy technicians in the healthcare system.
• Externship Opportunity: After completing the coursework, you get the chance to complete a 100+ hour externship with a national pharmacy chain.
• Duration: The course can be completed in one year or less, excluding the externship and state licensure preparation.
• Certification: The program prepares you for the PTCB certification, which meets most state requirements.

The course is accessible online, offering the convenience of flexible learning. Instructors like Melissa Dunworth and Betty Stahl bring extensive expertise, ensuring you gain valuable knowledge and practical skills.

The Academy at Goodwill – Pharmacy Technician Program

The Pharmacy Technician Program at The Academy at Goodwill aims to equip you with the necessary skills for effective patient care.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Comprehensive Training Modules: The program includes PharmaSeer™ and PharmaSeer Math™ modules along with PersonAbility™ training for soft skills.
• Certifications and Exams: You’ll be prepared for the National Healthcareer Association® (NHA) exam with two attempts to pass.
• CPR Certification: You will receive CPR certification through The American Red Cross®.

The program emphasizes practical training with in-person classes and requires a high school diploma for enrollment. With a $100 registration fee and flexible payment options, financial aid may also be available for eligible students.

University of Arkansas – Pharmacy Technician Professional Development Course

The Pharmacy Technician Professional Development Course offered by the University of Arkansas addresses the growing demand for pharmacy technicians.

Key features of this program include:

• Curriculum: Topics such as pharmacy terminology, prescription interpretation, and differentiating between generic and brand-name drugs are covered.
• Hands-On Training: You get to engage in volunteer clinical externships or hands-on training with local organizations.
• Self-Paced Learning: This online, self-paced course costs $1,299 and offers six months of access, including e-textbooks.

Designed to prepare you for national certification exams like the PTCB or NWCA, this program covers ethical conduct, medication administration, pharmaceutical calculations, and more.

Arkansas Employment Career Center – Certified Pharmacy Technician Program

The Certified Pharmacy Technician Program at the Arkansas Employment Career Center prepares you for both the national Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam and the Arkansas state license.

Program highlights include:

1. Duration and Hours: The program runs for eight weeks with 96 hours of instruction.
2. Curriculum: Key areas include medication dispensing, ordering, processing, and lab skills.
3. Cost and Financial Aid: Tuition for the program is $1,499, and it is WIOA-approved, with scholarships available for qualifying students.

This program ensures that you are ready for immediate employment in various pharmacy settings, boasting an average hourly wage of $18.

For those interested in starting a career as a pharmacy technician, these programs offer valuable pathways to certification and practical experience.

UAMS – Nuclear Pharmacy Technician Education and Training

The Nuclear Pharmacy Technician Education and Training program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) stands out with its specialized focus within the pharmacy technician field.

Key Features:

• Blended Learning Approach: The course combines web-based learning with hands-on supervised training at local sites, providing a flexible yet thorough educational experience.
• Duration: The program includes a minimum of ten weeks of supervised training under an Authorized Pharmacist preceptor, ensuring students receive practical, real-world experience.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Subject matter covers basic to advanced areas of nuclear pharmacy, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and applied skills.
• Specialization: Ideal for those interested in a niche area within pharmacy, this program offers an additional layer of expertise beyond traditional pharmacy technician roles.

Engaging in such a specialized program affiliated with UAMS ensures high-quality education and equips students with unique skills that can significantly enhance their career prospects.

Arkansas State University-Beebe – Pharmacy Technician Science Program

Arkansas State University-Beebe offers a Pharmacy Technician Science program that benefits from full accreditation by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).

Key Features:

• Accreditation: This significant accreditation reflects the program’s high standard of education and adherence to national guidelines.
• Curriculum: The program uses a building block approach, including hands-on education to prepare students thoroughly for the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam. Courses cover essential topics such as Medical Terminology, Federal/State Pharmacy Law, Pharmacy Math, and Pharmacology.
• Duration: The program spans two years, offering clinical rotations in various pharmacy settings, thereby providing students with comprehensive practical experience.
• Degree Options: Students can pursue associate degrees, certificates, as well as non-credit training opportunities, allowing for flexible educational paths.

This program stands out due to its strong accreditation and structured approach that equips you with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience essential for a successful career as a pharmacy technician.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program

Selecting the right pharmacy technician program in Little Rock, AR, is a crucial step towards a rewarding career. Here are essential factors to help you make the best choice:

1. Reputation and Accreditation:
2. Curriculum Content and Learning Modalities:
3. Financial Investment:
4. Certification and Externship Opportunities:
5. Support Services:

By weighing these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career aspirations and provides a strong foundation for your future as a pharmacy technician.

Conclusion: Making the Best Choice for Your Future

Choosing the right pharmacy technician program in Little Rock, AR, is a significant decision that can set the course for your career. These programs offer a wide range of options to suit different needs and career goals. By considering factors like accreditation, curriculum content, financial investment, and certification preparation, you will be well-equipped to make an informed choice.

These programs also offer hands-on training and externships, which are invaluable for gaining practical experience. As you explore these options, think about the long-term benefits and how they align with your aspirations. Begin your journey today by selecting a program that offers the education and experience needed for a thriving career in pharmacy technology.