Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our list of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Portland.
Want to start a rewarding career in healthcare?
Pharmacy Technician Programs in Maine offer a clear path to success. This article highlights top programs, online options, and key features to help you choose the right one.
Southern Maine Community College – SMCC Pharmacy Technician Online Training
Southern Maine Community College, a distinguished institution in Maine, offers an exceptional online training program for aspiring pharmacy technicians. The SMCC Pharmacy Technician Online Training is designed to prepare you thoroughly for certification.
Key Program Features:
- Personalized Learning: Continuous interaction with experienced instructors to tailor your learning experience.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers medication preparation, dosage calculations, prescription processing, insurance handling, and customer service.
- Certification Preparation: Upon completion, you will be eligible to take the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam and obtain State of Maine licensing.
- Flexible Online Format: The 14-16 week program is entirely online, allowing you to study at your convenience.
Graduates can look forward to careers in various settings, including hospitals, retail and supermarket pharmacies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and veterinary offices. Note that tuition does not include State of Maine licensing fees. For those aiming to further their education, SMCC also offers an array of Health Sciences degrees.
Learn more about the SMCC Pharmacy Technician Online Training
Maine JobLink – Pharmacy Technician Online Certification Training Program
Maine JobLink’s program is a robust option for becoming a qualified pharmacy technician. The Pharmacy Technician Online Certification Training Program addresses the increasing demand for skilled professionals in hospitals and retail settings.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Training: Materials include medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, and a virtual lab module.
- Hands-On Practice: Online lab component for real-world practice in retail pharmacy operations.
- Virtual Externship: Gain valuable experience through a virtual externship.
- Exam Preparation: Prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
The self-paced, 100% online course must be completed within 12 months and costs $2,495, including the PTCE registration fee. This program offers a nationally recognized certification and is WIOA approved.
Learn more about the Maine JobLink Pharmacy Technician Online Certification Training Program
York County Community College – Pharmacy Technician Training
York County Community College delivers an accelerated, all-expense-paid training program designed to prepare you for the pharmacy technician certification examination.
Program Benefits:
- Inclusive Education: Free for eligible Maine residents, including textbooks and certifications.
- Essential Skills: Comprehensive coverage of pharmacy law, medical terminology, medication calculations, and drug classification.
- Additional Training: Option for in-person BLS Training.
- Career Opportunities: Projected 4% job growth from 2020 to 2030.
Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
Learn more about York County Community College Pharmacy Technician Training
Stepful – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Stepful Pharmacy Technician Program is an efficient 4-month online course designed for those looking to become Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhT) in Maine.
Program Attributes:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Online instructor-led Zoom classes and clinical sessions.
- Certification Exam Prep: PTCB & NHA certification exam preparation.
- 1:1 Coaching: Personalized coaching to guide you through your training.
- Job Support Services: Job placement assistance and support services.
Students can also opt for an unpaid in-person clinical externship for practical experience. With the median salary for Maine pharmacy technicians at $37,140 per year, Stepful offers a money-back guarantee if you do not secure a job within six months. While certification isn’t required in Maine, the program prepares you for both the PTCB and NHA exams, boosting job market competitiveness.
Learn more about the Stepful Pharmacy Technician Program
These programs offer diverse pathways for becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Maine. Review each option carefully to find the one that best fits your goals and schedule.
Medical Field Careers – Pharmacy Tech Certificate Program
The Medical Field Careers Pharmacy Tech Certificate Program is a solid choice for those aiming to enter the field swiftly while ensuring they meet the necessary qualifications for licensure and certification in Maine.
Program Attributes:
- Structured Curriculum: Covers essential topics such as pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacology, pharmacy law, and inventory management.
- Flexible Learning: Available online to accommodate your schedule.
- Licensure and Certification: Prepares and qualifies you to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
- Comprehensive Resources: Includes study materials that ensure thorough preparation for the licensure and job requirements.
This 14-week program is designed to fit within a short timeframe without compromising on the thoroughness needed to grasp critical pharmacy skills. Upon completion, students receive a Certificate of Completion required for licensure. For more detailed information on tuition and associated costs, contacting Medical Field Careers directly is recommended.
Learn more about Medical Field Careers Pharmacy Tech Certificate Program
MSAD#1 Adult & Community Education – Pharmacy Technician Training
MSAD#1 Adult & Community Education offers a supportive and engaging Pharmacy Technician Training program that spans 14 weeks, focusing on preparing you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
Program Features:
- One-on-One Interaction: Personalized guidance from a dedicated trainer.
- Relevant Curriculum: Includes pharmacy operations, drug identification, basic science, and pertinent laws and regulations.
- Visual Aids: Enhances learning through the use of pill photos and other visual tools.
- Flexible Format: Online, with all study materials and application requirements provided upon registration.
This program is structured to build your communication skills, ensuring you are well-prepared to join the workforce. Specific tuition costs can be confirmed upon registration.
Learn more about the MSAD#1 Adult & Community Education Pharmacy Technician Training
Central Maine Community College – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Central Maine Community College (CMCC) offers an online Pharmacy Technician training program in partnership with ed2go, designed to provide comprehensive education through a 400-hour course.
Key Elements:
- Inclusive Study Materials: Features “The Pharmacy Technician: A Comprehensive Approach” among other resources.
- Extensive Curriculum: Covers medication safety, inventory management, pharmacy history, pharmacology, and pharmacy law.
- Virtual Learning: Provides online access to coursework and materials compatible with Windows operating systems.
- Certification Readiness: Includes practice tests for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
Students are equipped with the essential skills required for the role of a pharmacy technician. For detailed information on pricing and enrollment, contacting CMCC directly is advisable.
Learn more about the Central Maine Community College Pharmacy Technician Training Program
How to Choose the Right Pharmacy Technician Program in Maine
When considering a Pharmacy Technician program in Maine, several factors must be weighed to ensure the choice aligns with your goals and needs.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by relevant educational and professional bodies. This guarantees the program meets industry standards.
- Curriculum Coverage: Look for a curriculum that covers all necessary aspects of pharmacy technician work. This includes medication preparation, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy law, and hands-on practice.
- Program Cost: Compare how tuition fees, textbooks, certification exams, and any other expenses add up. Financial aid or scholarships may also be available.
- Flexibility: If you are balancing work or other commitments, online programs can offer a significant advantage. Check the format and duration to see how it fits your schedule.
- Career Support: Services such as job placement assistance can significantly enhance your prospects post-graduation. See if the program offers these supports.
- Externship Opportunities: Real-world experience is invaluable. Programs that offer externships provide you with practical, hands-on learning.
Researching these aspects will help you navigate your options and select a program that not only fits your current situation but also positions you for future success.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, Maine offers a variety of excellent Pharmacy Technician programs that cater to different needs, schedules, and budgets. Whether you prefer online coursework, in-person training, or a blend of both, there is a program that can help you achieve your career goals.
Start by evaluating the suggested programs from Southern Maine Community College, Maine JobLink, York County Community College, Stepful, Medical Field Careers, MSAD#1 Adult & Community Education, and Central Maine Community College. Consider the outlined factors to select the program that best fits your aspirations.
Now is the time to take the next step towards a fulfilling career as a pharmacy technician in Maine. Visit the links provided to learn more about each program and begin your journey today.
Explore more about these programs and start your journey to becoming a pharmacy technician in Maine.