Pharmacy Technician Programs in Oakland CA

Are you searching for the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Oakland CA but overwhelmed by the options?

You’re in the right place.

This article narrows down top-rated programs that offer quality education, hands-on experience, and strong job placement rates.

Discover where to kick-start your career as a pharmacy technician with these standout Oakland programs.

San Francisco State University – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program

For a blend of flexibility and structured learning, the San Francisco State University Pharmacy Technician Certification Program offers excellent options. Choose between an in-person/online hybrid or a fully online, self-paced course.

Key Features:

• Flexible Learning Options: The hybrid course combines in-person classes at the Downtown San Francisco campus with online learning, suitable for those needing some in-person contact. The fully online option allows you to progress at your own pace.
• Clinical Externship: An 80-hour clinical externship provides real-world experience in various pharmacy settings, such as retail and hospital pharmacies.
• PTCB Exam Preparation: The program includes preparation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. The exam fee is integrated into the course cost.
• Affordability: Both the hybrid and online courses are priced at $1,499.
• Duration: The hybrid course spans two to three months, while the self-paced online course allows up to nine months for completion, with a possible three-month extension.

The program’s comprehensive curriculum covers medication preparation, drug administration, and inventory management. This training ensures you’re well-prepared for the PTCB exam and various pharmacy roles.

Cal State East Bay – Pharmacy Technician Program

The Cal State East Bay Pharmacy Technician Program stands out for its flexible, self-paced online course and strong industry connections.

Key Features:

• Experienced Instructors: Learn from seasoned pharmacists and pharmacy technicians like Melissa Dunworth, Betty Stahl, and Lorraine C. Zentz. Their expertise enriches the learning experience.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Modules cover federal and state laws, HIPAA requirements, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacology, and essential communication skills.
• Externship Opportunities: The program boasts national contracts with major pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS. Students gain real-world experience through clinical rotations in retail and hospital settings.
• Certification and Recognition: Completing the course earns you a Certificate of Completion from Cal State East Bay, adding valuable credentials to your resume.
• Job Market Relevance: With an estimated 8.1% job growth in the field from 2022 to 2032, graduates are well-positioned for employment in various healthcare settings.

The total program cost is $3,025. While financial aid is not available for non-degree programs, the investment is worthwhile for those seeking to enter a growing industry.

Foothill College – Pharmacy Technician Program

The Foothill College Pharmacy Technician Program offers a rigorous nine-month curriculum, accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).

Key Features:

• Accreditation: Accreditation by ASHP and ACPE ensures the program meets high educational standards, preparing you effectively for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
• Curriculum Flexibility: Students can earn either a basic or an advanced certificate, tailoring their education to specific career goals.
• Affordable Tuition: At $1,400, the program is cost-effective and includes essential training components.
• Limited Class Size: With a maximum of 24 students per cohort, instructions are personalized and engaging.
• Hands-On Experience: Clinical rotations and internships provide practical training, enhancing your readiness for the workplace.

A prerequisite course, PHT 200L: Pharmacy Technician as a Career, offers a comprehensive overview of the profession, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the main program. Upon graduation, you receive a certificate of program completion, boosting your employment prospects and earning potential.

By focusing on these key programs, you can make an informed decision and kickstart your pharmacy technician career with confidence.

CalRegional – Salinas Pharmacy Technician Program

The CalRegional Salinas Pharmacy Technician Program adopts a hybrid model to balance flexibility and hands-on training. This method encompasses 50% online lectures and 50% lab work.

Key Features:

• Hybrid Learning: Blend online, instructor-led lectures with hands-on lab sessions for a well-rounded learning experience that adheres to the California State Board of Pharmacy’s training guidelines.
• Immediate Externship Placement: Unlike many programs that delay externship placements, CalRegional ensures immediate placement, providing quick real-world experience.
• Broad Training Scope: Prepare for roles in diverse environments, from retail and hospital pharmacies to sterile compounding settings.
• Certification Preparation: The program prepares students for the national Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The program boasts a certification passing rate of 91%.
• Cost: The program costs $2,995, which includes the certification exam fee, making it an economical option for comprehensive training.

Graduates are well-prepared to work under licensed pharmacists in various healthcare environments, securing positions in retail drug stores, hospitals, and more. With over 5,000 pharmacy technician jobs available in California and an average salary of $52,090, this program offers a solid path into the pharmacy field.

How to Choose the Best Pharmacy Technician Program

Selecting the best pharmacy technician program is crucial for your future career. Evaluating programs based on various factors will help you make an informed decision.

Key Considerations:

1. Accreditation: Verify that the program is accredited by recognized organizations such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). This ensures a high standard of education.
2. Curriculum Quality: A comprehensive curriculum should cover essential topics, including:
3. Facility Quality: Programs should boast state-of-the-art facilities equipped with modern lab apparatus to provide hands-on training and simulation experiences.
4. Instructor Experience: The caliber of the academic faculty impacts the quality of education. Experienced instructors with background knowledge and real-world experience can make a significant difference.
5. Externship and Job Placement Rates: Evaluate programs based on their externship partnerships and job placement rates. A program with high placement rates and strong industry connections can enhance your job prospects post-graduation.
6. Cost and Financial Aid: While affordability is essential, it should not compromise the quality of education. Look into financial aid options to ease the financial burden.
7. Program Duration: The time required to complete a program should align with your personal schedule and career goals. Some programs offer flexible durations that accommodate different learning paces.
8. Location and Learning Mode: Assess whether the program offers online, in-person, or hybrid learning models and how these fit into your lifestyle and learning preferences.

By carefully considering these aspects, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.

Conclusion: Start Your Career as a Pharmacy Technician Today

Pursuing one of the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Oakland CA can open doors to a rewarding career. Programs like those at San Francisco State University, Cal State East Bay, Foothill College, and CalRegional offer varied approaches, each with its strengths. By selecting a program that fits your needs, learning style, and career goals, you can take a significant step towards becoming a pharmacy technician. Begin your journey today and embark on a fulfilling and impactful career in the healthcare industry.