Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Providence and Warwick
Considering a career in healthcare and unsure where to start?
Pharmacy technician programs in Rhode Island offer a practical path into the medical field. This article guides you through the top courses available, detailing their unique features, costs, and requirements.
Get the essential information you need to make an informed decision for your future.
Community College of Rhode Island – Pharmacy Technician II Program
The Pharmacy Technician II Program at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) prepares you to excel in various pharmacy practice settings. With 180 hours of classroom training and a 120-hour externship, this program covers what you need to assist effectively in pharmaceutical preparations.
Key Components:
- Drug Classes and Interactions: Understand how medications interact and affect the body.
- Basic Physiology: Learn the basics of human anatomy and physiology as they relate to pharmacy.
- Daily Pharmacy Operations: Get to grips with the workflows of different pharmacy environments.
- Pharmacy Calculations: Build a solid foundation in pharmacy math, crucial for daily operations.
Supported by Real Jobs Rhode Island, the program removes financial barriers by offering free tuition. Additionally, it features a hybrid class format, combing online and in-person sessions over 11 weeks to fit various schedules.
To enroll, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Lifespan – Workforce STAT Pharmacy Technician Program
The Workforce STAT Pharmacy Technician Program by Lifespan, in collaboration with CCRI, aims to completely support unemployed or underemployed Rhode Islanders, offering comprehensive training and externships.
Key Elements:
- Classroom and Lab Work: In-depth classroom training combined with practical lab work at CCRI.
- Externship Opportunities: Hands-on externship at a Lifespan affiliate provides invaluable real-world experience.
- Work-Readiness Training: Structured workshops to enhance employability skills.
After successful completion, you’ll receive a Pharmacy Technician license and become eligible for employment within the Lifespan network, offering competitive benefits. To get started, submit the Workforce STAT Interest Form on the Lifespan website.
University of Providence – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
The Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program at the University of Providence equips you with the skills necessary to achieve national certification as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). The structured program blends online coursework, in-person skill labs, and internships, spread over 24 weeks.
Key Features:
- Earn-While-You-Learn Pathway: Work while studying to graduate debt-free.
- High Certification Exam Pass Rate: Achieve success with a 95% exam pass rate.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes Introduction to Pharmacy, multiple Pharmacy Practice courses, and an exam prep course.
Tuition rates stand at $1,264 or $804 for healthcare professionals, making this program both accessible and affordable.
Health and Home Care Training of New England – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Health and Home Care Training of New England offers a Pharmacy Technician Training Program designed for aspiring pharmacy technicians, with a focus on retail and institutional settings.
Key Program Attributes:
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health Approval: Ensures quality and industry relevance.
- Exam Preparation: Prepares you for the national certification exam effectively.
The program runs for 42 hours. However, for Rhode Island residents, it’s important to note that the 500-hour work requirement for licensure does not apply in your state. To understand exact hours and pricing, visit the course details on their website.
Each of these pharmacy technician programs in Rhode Island offers a unique blend of classroom learning, hands-on training, and career readiness, making them valuable options for starting your career in the healthcare field.
V-TECS – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at V-TECS in Providence, RI, aims to equip you with essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in pharmacy.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Classroom Instruction: 180 hours of coursework covering essential pharmacy topics.
- Hands-On Externship: Gain practical experience with a 120-hour externship.
- Affordable Tuition: The program is priced at $2,895 plus a $5 registration fee.
- VA Educational Benefits: Approved for veterans seeking to utilize their educational benefits.
Despite the lack of detailed information on schedules and additional costs like textbooks and certification exam fees, this program offers a structured path to becoming a pharmacy technician.
Sullivan University – Community Pharmacy Certificate
Sullivan University offers a Community Pharmacy Certificate and Pharmacy Technician Diploma Program, each designed to fast-track your career in pharmacy.
Program Highlights:
- Medication Dispensing: Learn the intricacies of dispensing medications safely and accurately.
- Pharmacy Calculations: Gain proficiency in pharmacy math and calculations.
- Inventory Management: Understand how to manage and control pharmacy inventory efficiently.
- Customer Service Skills: Enhance your customer interaction skills, essential for community pharmacy settings.
These programs offer flexible learning options, including online and on-campus courses. They also provide hands-on training through practical experiences and career support services. Details on fees and financial aid options can be found by exploring further.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pharmacy Technician Program
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program involves careful consideration of several factors. Here are some guidelines to help you make an informed decision:
- Accreditation:
- Comprehensive Curriculum:
- Costs and Hidden Fees:
- Program Duration:
- Externship Opportunities:
- Industry Connections:
- Pass Rates:
By evaluating these factors, you can choose a pharmacy technician program that not only meets your educational needs but also enhances your career prospects.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Wrapping Up Your Pharmacy Technician Journey
Embarking on a career as a pharmacy technician in Rhode Island can be both exciting and rewarding. With various programs available that offer a mix of classroom learning, hands-on training, and career readiness, you have ample opportunities to find the one that best suits your aspirations.
Whether you choose the structured approach of CCRI’s program or the hands-on training offered by Lifespan’s Workforce STAT program, you’re taking the first step towards a promising career in healthcare.
Choose wisely, invest in your education, and look forward to a fulfilling journey as a pharmacy technician in Rhode Island.