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##Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in North Dakota
Considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in North Dakota?
This guide explores the top Pharmacy Technician programs in the state, providing crucial insights into their unique offerings and how they can propel your career in healthcare.
Discover accredited programs, job placement rates, and hands-on training opportunities to make an informed decision.
North Dakota State College of Science – Pharmacy Technician Program
When considering a Pharmacy Technician program in North Dakota, the North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) Pharmacy Technician Program offers a robust educational foundation suitable for aspiring pharmacy professionals.
Program Overview and Structure
NDSCS provides two distinct pathways for students:
- A.A.S. Degree: Offering a more extensive educational journey, this program covers various aspects of pharmacy technology and includes general education courses. The degree is available in both Wahpeton and hybrid formats, which combine live video and in-person classes.
- Certificate Program: Spanning one year, this program focuses on core pharmacy technician skills and includes an eight-week internship. This practical experience in both community and hospital pharmacy settings prepares students for real-world scenarios.
Accreditation and Real-World Training
One of the notable features of NDSCS is its accreditation by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). This recognition ensures that the curriculum meets high standards of quality and relevance.
Coursework and Practical Skills
A pharmacy technician plays a pivotal role in the healthcare system. At NDSCS, you will be trained in:
- Medication Preparation: Learn to accurately prepare and dispense medications.
- Sterile Products Compounding: Gain skills in compounding sterile products, ensuring patient safety.
- Prescription Processing: Develop proficiency in handling prescriptions and managing pharmacy inventory systems.
In addition to classroom learning, NDSCS boasts a perfect pass rate for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and offers hands-on training with PioneerRx, a leading pharmacy management system.
Career Prospects
Given the growing demand for healthcare services, graduates from NDSCS have a high job placement rate. As a certified pharmacy technician, you will support pharmacists in healthcare delivery, offering a rewarding career path.
You can learn more about the NDSCS Pharmacy Technician Program here.
NDSCS – Pharmacy Technician Program for Military Service Members
The NDSCS Pharmacy Technician Program for Military Service Members uniquely caters to those who have served in the military, recognizing the value of their experience and training.
Program Benefits
NDSCS offers several advantages to military service members:
- Credit for Military Training: Army MOS and Army school training can be converted into academic credits. This allows you to leverage your previous experience and shorten your academic journey.
- Tailored Curriculum: Includes specific courses such as Customer Service and 14 General Education Electives. Recommended courses are Principles of Nutrition, Business, History/Literature, and Math.
Accreditation and Employment Success
NDSCS is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), ensuring rigorous educational standards. The program’s outstanding 100% job placement rate underscores the high demand for skilled pharmacy technicians.
Skills and Responsibilities
As a pharmacy technician, your tasks will include:
- Medication Management: Assist in preparation, compounding, and distribution of medications.
- Technical Support: Perform technical tasks to allow pharmacists to focus on clinical services and patient consultations.
Transitioning to Civilian Healthcare
This program provides a smooth transition from military to civilian healthcare roles, ensuring that your previous training is recognized and built upon, offering a rewarding and stable career.
You can learn more about the NDSCS Pharmacy Technician Program for Military Service Members.
North Dakota State University – Pharmacy Technician Program
North Dakota State University (NDSU) offers a unique pathway for certified pharmacy technicians to advance their careers through the NDSU Pharmacy Technician Program.
Program Pathways and Flexibility
NDSU provides several admission pathways to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program, each tailored to different educational and professional backgrounds:
- Certified Technicians: Requires certification from an ASHP accredited program and a national certification from an approved board.
- Bachelor’s Degree Pathway: Allows leveraging existing credits from accredited institutions to fulfill degree requirements, facilitating earlier graduation.
Curriculum and Educational Support
NDSU’s curriculum emphasizes research and practical experience, comprising:
- Research Opportunities: Engage in innovative research through the Center for Collaboration and Advancement in Pharmacy and the Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies in Pancreatic Cancer.
- Hands-on Learning: Gain experience in labs and other practical settings, enhancing your real-world skills.
- Application to Pharm.D Program: The final year includes applying for the Doctor of Pharmacy program, with a crucial deadline of March 1, 2024.
Financial and Academic Assistance
The program offers comprehensive support structures:
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Opportunities to help manage the cost of education.
- Pre-Pharmacy Advising: Personalized guidance to help navigate your educational journey.
Career Advancement
Graduating from NDSU can significantly elevate your career, preparing you for advanced roles within the pharmacy sector.
To explore more about advancing your career through the NDSU Pharmacy Technician Program, visit their official page.
Turtle Mountain Community College – Pharmacy Technician Associate Degree Program
Turtle Mountain Community College (TMCC) in Belcourt, North Dakota, offers a well-rounded associate degree in pharmacy technology, accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).
Program Highlights
At TMCC, you will receive training that equips you with the competencies necessary for supporting pharmacists while complying with state laws and regulations.
- Comprehensive Training: Courses cover essential topics like drug preparation, distribution, inventory management, and pharmaceutical calculations.
- Hands-on Experience: Emphasizes practical training to prepare you for various pharmacy settings, including retail and hospital environments.
- ASHP Accreditation: Ensures a curriculum that meets high educational standards.
Practical Skills and Knowledge
The pharmacy technician role involves several key responsibilities that this program addresses:
- Medication Preparation and Distribution: Learn the skills needed to assist pharmacists in preparing and distributing medications accurately.
- Inventory Management: Develop expertise in managing pharmaceutical inventory to ensure a steady supply of medications.
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Gain proficiency in performing calculations vital for patient safety and medication efficacy.
Career Outlook
Completing this program meets the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy requirements, including state registration and passing the PTCB exam. The demand for qualified pharmacy technicians is rising, offering promising job prospects. In North Dakota, the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians is $41,760, with 818 PTCB certified technicians currently practicing.
Explore more about TMCC’s Pharmacy Technician Associate Degree Program.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program involves weighing multiple factors to ensure it aligns with your career goals. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice:
- Accreditation:
- Curriculum:
- Internship Opportunities:
- Costs:
- Location:
- Job Placement Rates:
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Pharmacy Technician Career
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician program in North Dakota can significantly impact your career trajectory in healthcare. With accredited programs at institutions like North Dakota State College of Science, Turtle Mountain Community College, and North Dakota State University, you have multiple options to consider.
Evaluate each program’s curriculum, practical training opportunities, costs, and location to find the best fit for your professional goals. Armed with this information, you can confidently take the next steps toward a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician.
Explore the detailed offerings of each program through their respective links to make an informed decision and embark on your journey in the field of pharmacy technology.