Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Edison, Elizabeth, Jersey City, Lakewood, Newark, Paterson, and Woodbridge.
Wondering how to jump-start your career as a pharmacy technician in New Jersey?
This article covers the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in New Jersey, breaking down the best options to help you choose wisely.
From flexible online courses to hands-on training, discover the programs designed to prepare you for certification and a successful career in the healthcare industry.
New Jersey City University – Online Pharmacy Technician Course
New Jersey City University’s Online Pharmacy Technician Course is an ideal choice for those looking to balance their studies with other commitments.
This fully online program prepares you to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) National Certification exam, a key credential for a career in pharmacy. The curriculum is thorough, covering:
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understand the legal and ethical standards.
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Master essential math skills.
- Pharmacology: Learn about various medications and their effects.
- Communication Skills: Develop effective interaction strategies with patients and healthcare providers.
- Insurance and Inventory Procedures: Gain insights into the administrative side of pharmacy work.
The course also includes clinical rotations in both retail and hospital settings. This hands-on experience is crucial for understanding real-world pharmacy operations. Additionally, the program offers a 100+ hour externship with a national pharmacy chain.
One of the standout features is its accessibility. There are no prerequisites required to enroll, making it a great option for anyone interested in starting a career in pharmacy.
Learn more about the New Jersey City University Online Pharmacy Technician Course here.
Rowan College at Burlington County – Pharmacy Technician Program
Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC) offers an excellent Pharmacy Technician Program designed to prepare you for the PTCB exam. The program’s comprehensive curriculum covers:
- Medical Terminology: Familiarize yourself with necessary medical language.
- Prescription Reading: Learn to interpret prescriptions accurately.
- Drug Identification: Differentiate between generic and brand-name medications.
The college provides several student support services, from campus tours to financial aid information. This is particularly beneficial for returning adults or those who need extra guidance.
An extraordinary aspect of this program is the availability of grant funding, which can make the entire program free for eligible students. This financial support can be a game-changer.
Check out the Rowan College at Burlington County Pharmacy Technician Program to find out more.
Ocean County College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Ocean County College boasts a nationally recognized Pharmacy Technician Program. It prepares you for the PTCB exam with a strong curriculum that includes:
- Drug Identification and Interactions: Know the essential details about various medications.
- Medical Terminology: Learn the specific language used in pharmacies.
- Medication Administration: Understand different routes and dosages.
- Compounding and Inventory Control: Gain practical skills for pharmacy operations.
The program costs $2,499, with additional expenses for textbooks, and requires a high school diploma or equivalent to enroll. Basic math proficiency is also required.
Graduates leave fully prepared to tackle the PTCB exam. The County College Contracts Law ensures the program adheres to professional standards.
For detailed information, visit the Ocean County College Pharmacy Technician Program page.
Brookdale Community College – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
Brookdale Community College offers a well-rounded Pharmacy Technician Certification Program. It is designed to thoroughly prepare you for the PTCB exam through:
- Prescription Basics: Learn how to handle prescriptions accurately.
- Pharmacy Calculations: Develop the necessary math skills.
- Pharmacology: Gain in-depth knowledge of medications and their uses.
- Pharmacy Law and Medication Compounding: Learn the legal requirements and techniques for mixing medications.
This program includes 144 classroom hours and 20 clinical externship hours, allowing you to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
An optional Accelerated Exam Prep is available for current technicians who wish to certify faster.
Visit the Brookdale Community College Pharmacy Technician Certification Program to learn more.
Hudson County Community College – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
Hudson County Community College’s Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program offers both theoretical and practical training. This ensures you are well-prepared for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) exam, helping you to achieve the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) title. The program covers:
- Pharmacy Fundamentals: Master the basics of pharmacy practices.
- Hands-on Training: Gain practical experience in a real-world setting.
- Exam Preparation: Focused preparatory sessions for the NHA exam.
To be eligible, you must have a high school diploma, be at least 18 years old, and possibly provide a satisfactory TABE Test score or GPA exemption. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are also required.
Graduates can move directly into the workforce, making this program an excellent entry point for an immediate career.
For further details, explore the Hudson County Community College Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program.
Bergen Community College – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
Bergen Community College offers a robust Pharmacy Technician Certification Program, making it a stellar option for those seeking to enter the field. The program spans multiple locations, providing flexibility and convenience for students.
The curriculum comprises comprehensive modules that cover critical areas such as:
- Drug Dosages: Learn how to calculate and administer correct dosages.
- Pharmacy Laws: Understand the legal framework governing pharmacy practices.
- Inventory Control: Master techniques to manage and control inventory efficiently.
- Pharmacy Calculations: Enhance your math skills pertinent to pharmacy tasks.
- Medication Safety: Learn best practices to ensure patient safety and proper medication handling.
The program thrives on hands-on training and offers guidance from experienced faculty, preparing you thoroughly for the PTCB exam. It is particularly well-suited for those who have attention to detail and possess excellent organizational skills.
For further information, schedules, and fees, visit the Bergen Community College Pharmacy Technician Certification Program.
Atlantic Health System – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at Atlantic Health System, located at Overlook Medical Center, is New Jersey’s first accredited program by the ASHP and ACPE. This distinction underscores the program’s quality and thoroughness.
The 14-week curriculum is designed for individuals looking to shift careers within the Atlantic Health System. Key aspects of this program include:
- Accredited Curriculum: Recognized by the ASHP and ACPE.
- Comprehensive Training: Covers the complete spectrum of pharmacy technician responsibilities.
- Career Development: Prepares you thoroughly for a career as a pharmacy technician.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Offers practical training in impressive settings.
Given the growing demand for pharmacy technicians, this program is an excellent choice if you’re aiming to join a high-standard healthcare institution.
Learn more by visiting the Atlantic Health System Pharmacy Technician Program.
County College of Morris – Pharmacy Technician Program
County College of Morris has created an effective pathway for aspiring pharmacy technicians. Their intensive 150-hour Pharmacy Technician Program includes a solid mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Highlights of their program include:
- Pharmacy Practice: Foundational training in routine tasks and responsibilities.
- Drug Identification: In-depth understanding of various medications.
- Pharmacy Calculations: Essential math skills for dosage and prescription preparation.
- Inventory Management: Effective management techniques for pharmacy stock.
- Patient Safety: Procedures to ensure safe dispensing of medications.
This $99 program offers financial aid to qualifying candidates, enhancing its accessibility. Completion leads to eligibility for the PTCB exam, making it a strong entry point for a pharmacy career.
To find more specifics, visit the County College of Morris Pharmacy Technician Program.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program in New Jersey
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program involves several considerations. Here are key factors to guide your decision:
- Accreditation: Choose programs accredited by recognized bodies like the ASHP or ACPE to ensure quality education.
- Program Length: Consider the program duration and ensure it fits your schedule and timeline for entering the workforce.
- Cost: Evaluate tuition fees and availability of financial aid or grants that can make the program more affordable.
- Curriculum: Ensure the curriculum is well-rounded, covering pharmacy law, calculations, pharmacology, and practical components like externships.
- Hands-on Training: Look for programs that offer practical training opportunities, like clinical rotations or externships.
- Certification Exam Preparation: Opt for programs that adequately prepare you for the PTCB or NHA certification exams.
- Reputation: Research the program’s reputation and its graduates’ success rates.
- Flexibility: If you have other commitments, choose a program with flexible class schedules or online learning options.
- Location: Proximity to potential externship or employment sites can be an added advantage.
Evaluating these factors will help you choose a program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion
Investing in a pharmacy technician program in New Jersey can pave the way for a fulfilling and stable career in healthcare. These institutions offer diverse and extensive programs that prepare you for certification and immediate entry into the workforce. Choose the one that fits your needs and take a step towards a promising future in the pharmaceutical field.