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Want to become a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio?
Explore the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Ohio to kickstart your career in healthcare.
This article highlights the best programs, including details on curriculum, certification, and hands-on training opportunities.
Find the right fit for your career goals and make an informed decision without scrolling through endless options.
Columbus State Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Columbus State Community College offers a detailed and structured Pharmacy Technician Program. This program spans two semesters and prepares you thoroughly for a career in healthcare.
Features of the Program:
- Pharmacy Technician Skills: You will learn about medical abbreviations, prescription reading, and various drug administration forms.
- Hands-On Training: The curriculum includes both non-sterile and sterile compounding.
- Externship Requirement: Complete a 140-hour externship, essential for ASHP accreditation.
- Deadlines: Apply by August 1st or December 15th for the relevant semester start.
- Certification and Career Readiness: Graduates are eligible for national certification and entry-level positions.
- Admission Requirements: A background check and drug screening are mandatory.
The program was updated in Spring 2019 to align with state and federal regulations.
Cuyahoga Community College – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
The Cuyahoga Community College offers a Pharmacy Technician Certificate program aimed at providing hands-on practical experience through its day and evening classes.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible Timings: Options for day and evening classes.
- Transferable Credits: Earn credits that can be applied towards an Associate of Applied Science degree in Pharmacy Technology.
- In-Depth Curriculum: Study pharmacy calculations, law and ethics, and drug classification.
- Clinical Practice: Affiliate with over 40 pharmacies in Northeast Ohio for practicum experience.
- Exam Eligibility: Graduates can sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
The program is set to be discontinued after Fall 2024; potential students should take note of this timeline.
Terra State Community College – Online Pharmacy Technician Program
Terra State Community College provides a fully online Pharmacy Technician program designed to prepare you for the PTCB National Certification Exam.
Key Aspects of the Program:
- Online Flexibility: Complete the program remotely, ideal for balancing other commitments.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Learn about pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacology, communication skills, and inventory procedures.
- Duration: The program can be completed within one year.
- Expert Instruction: Courses taught by certified pharmacy technicians.
Ensure to verify enrollment information, including pricing, and externship placements directly with Terra State Community College.
University Hospitals – Pharmacy Technician Trainee Program
The University Hospitals offer a 16-week paid Pharmacy Technician Trainee Program.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Training: Involves 500 hours of didactic training.
- Rotation Through Different Settings: Includes hospitals and community pharmacies.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you for the PTCB exam.
- Eligibility Requirements: Must have a high school diploma, be 18 years or older, and pass interviews and background checks.
This program encompasses in-class and on-site hours and requires reliable transportation for rotation sites.
Sinclair Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Sinclair Community College offers an in-depth Pharmacy Technician Program. This program is designed for training in various pharmacy settings, including retail and hospitals.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Pharmacology Training: Includes drug preparation and record-keeping.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain 80 hours of simulated lab experience and 210 hours in a real-world pharmacy setting.
- Accreditation: Accredited by ASHP/ACPE, ensuring high-quality education.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you for the national Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
- Admission Requirements: Verification of specific admission requirements and program costs with the college’s admissions department is advised.
This program is tailored to provide you with the skills you need for a successful pharmacy technician career.
Central Ohio Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) offers a Pharmacy Technician Certificate that provides a balanced curriculum and hands-on experience. This program prepares students with the necessary skills needed for success in pharmacy environments.
Program Essentials:
- Skill Development: Courses focus on medication dispensing, inventory management, and customer service.
- Relevant Curriculum: Topics include pharmacy calculations, terminology, drug classification, and pharmacology.
- Clinical Externships: Hands-on experience through externships helps bridge classroom learning with real-world application.
- Academic Requirements: A grade of C or better is required in all program courses to ensure proficiency.
Keep in mind that this program is being phased out, so stay updated on its availability and alternative options.
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital offers an entry-level Pharmacy Technician Training Program designed to rigorously prepare you for certification and employment.
Notable Program Features:
- Accredited Training: The program is ASHP and ACPE accredited, ensuring education standards are met.
- Structured Education: Includes didactic coursework, simulations, and experiential training spanning three to four months.
- Cost Coverage: Training costs are covered with a one-year employment commitment post-graduation.
- Certification Prep: The program prepares you thoroughly for the PTCB exam.
Applicants must comply with work commitments post-training or repay program costs. Classes are rotational with varying shifts.
North Central State College – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
North Central State College offers an online Pharmacy Technician Certificate program ideal for those seeking flexibility in their education.
Key Program Details:
- Course Structure: The program includes two principal courses—PHRM 2100 and PHRM 2200—and encompasses a possible practical experience.
- Regulations Education: Focuses on Ohio-specific and federal pharmacy regulations.
- Certification Eligibility: Graduates can sit for the PTCE upon program completion.
- Prerequisites: Requires courses in English, Mathematics, and Chemistry for entry.
The program collaborates with the Pioneer Career and Technology Center for advanced certification prospects.
Franklin University – Pharmacy Tech Specialist Certificate Online
Franklin University offers a 16-week online Pharmacy Tech Specialist Certificate program, providing extensive education and flexibility.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Learning: Covers human anatomy, medical terminology, prescription processing, and biopharmaceutics.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you for the PTCB certification exam.
- Flexible Online Education: Enables you to balance the program with other commitments.
- Career Coaching: Offers personalized career coaching included in the program.
- Convertible Credits: Opportunity to convert the certificate into college credits.
With a program cost of $2,700, ensure to verify state-specific credentialing requirements.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pharmacy Technician Program
When selecting Pharmacy Technician Programs in Ohio, consider the following essential factors to match your career aspirations:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited to meet educational standards and credentialing requirements.
- Curriculum: Look for programs that offer a blend of didactic and practical learning experiences.
- Duration: Choose a program that fits your timeline and career goals.
- Cost: Compare tuition costs and explore financial aid options.
- Training Format: Decide between online and in-person training based on your schedule and learning preferences.
- Externships and Hands-On Experience: Ensure the program provides adequate practical experience opportunities.
- Certification Preparation: Opt for programs that prepare you for certification exams like the PTCB.
Taking these factors into account will help you find a program that aligns with your needs and sets you on a path to a rewarding career.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion: Start Your Pharmacy Technician Career
In summary, Ohio offers a variety of quality Pharmacy Technician programs, each with unique strengths and opportunities for hands-on training, certification, and career advancement. Whether through Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, or any other listed program, you are equipped to choose the best fit. Take the next steps by researching further, contacting admissions offices, and preparing for enrollment. Certification as a Pharmacy Technician can open doors in the growing healthcare field and help you achieve professional success.