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Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician in Rochester, NY, but unsure which program to choose?
This article will guide you through the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Rochester NY, highlighting their unique features and benefits.
Whether you’re looking for hands-on training or flexible learning options, find out which program fits your career goals best.
Bryant & Stratton – Pharmacy Technician Program
If you’re aiming to become a pharmacy technician in Rochester, NY, the Bryant & Stratton Pharmacy Technician Program offers a well-rounded education to prepare you for both clinical and retail settings. The program provides options for both online and on-campus learning, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your schedule.
Program Features
- Online Program: This self-paced option can usually be completed in 12 months or less. Course topics include pharmacy law and ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, and pharmacology. The program concludes with a 100-hour externship at a local pharmacy, offering you practical, hands-on experience.
- On-Campus Program: Exclusively available in Buffalo and Rochester, the on-campus program covers 160 hours of study, divided equally between classroom learning and clinical externships. These hands-on experiences are vital for preparing you to sit for the national Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
Curriculum & Training
The curriculum is designed to cover essential skills such as:
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical considerations in pharmacy practice.
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Gaining proficiency in medication dosages and prescription interpretations.
- Pharmacology: Learning about various medications, their uses, and side effects.
Externship & Certification
A notable aspect of this program is the mandatory externship, which not only provides real-world practice but also positions you to take the PTCE, conducted by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). It’s important to note that background checks and drug screenings are required for all externship placements.
For more information, visit the Bryant & Stratton Pharmacy Technician Program.
Genesee Community College – Pharmacy Technician Certification Course
Genesee Community College offers a thorough Pharmacy Technician Certification Course aimed at meeting the growing demand for skilled pharmacy technicians in Rochester, NY. This program equips you with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed in this high-demand field.
Program Highlights
- Certification Preparation: This course gears you up for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam and other national certifications like the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) and the National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Pharmacy Technician Associate Certification (PTAC).
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Key subjects include pharmacy terminology, prescription interpretation, generic and brand name drugs, and much more. The program also includes a volunteer externship to provide practical experience.
Key Courses
Some of the essential topics covered in the curriculum are:
- Ethics and Laws in Pharmacy Practice
- Pharmaceutical Calculations
- Patient Communication
- Insurance Billing and Inventory Control
Delivery Format & Costs
The course is delivered online, making it a convenient option for those balancing other commitments. It includes mobile-ready video lessons and 24/7 learner support. The cost of the course is $1,299.00. Enrollment requires a high school diploma or GED, and there is a return policy that allows for requests within 30 days of purchase, provided you haven’t exceeded 10 hours of content usage.
Genesee Community College even provides support through a Program-Marketing Specialist, ensuring you have guidance throughout your learning journey.
For more information, visit the Genesee Community College Pharmacy Technician Certification Course.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program takes careful thought. Various factors can impact the quality of your education and future career prospects.
Key Factors to Consider
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body like the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) to meet industry standards and boost employment prospects.
- Curriculum: Look for courses covering important topics such as pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy law and ethics, medication administration, and patient communication.
- Certification Preparation: The program should prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or other national certifications.
- Externship Opportunities: Hands-on experience is invaluable. Programs that include externships provide practical skills essential for future employment.
- Delivery Format: Decide if you prefer an online, on-campus, or hybrid format based on your personal schedule and learning style.
- Cost: Evaluate the total program cost, including tuition, books, and certification exam fees. Check if financial aid or payment plans are available.
- Support Services: Look for career counseling, job placement assistance, and additional resources that can help you succeed during and after the program.
By evaluating these factors, you can find a pharmacy technician program that aligns with your career goals and sets you up for success in a promising healthcare field.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program in Rochester, NY, is a crucial step toward your career in healthcare. Here are key considerations to make when choosing a program that aligns with your career goals.
Accreditation
Accreditation is fundamental. Ensure the program is recognized by a credible body such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). This guarantees that the program meets industry standards, which can enhance your employment opportunities significantly.
Curriculum
Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it covers essential topics. These should include:
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Proficiency in medication dosages and interpretations.
- Pharmacology: Comprehensive learning about various medications, their uses, and side effects.
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical considerations in pharmacy practice.
- Medication Administration: Knowledge of drug delivery methods.
- Patient Communication: Effective ways to interact with patients.
Certification Preparation
Make sure the program prepares you for recognized certifications such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or other national certifications. This preparation is critical for your credibility and career advancement.
Externship Opportunities
Externship opportunities are invaluable. Hands-on experience in a real-world setting helps you gain practical skills essential for future employment. Look for programs that include externships as part of their curriculum.
Delivery Format
Decide whether you prefer an online, on-campus, or hybrid format. Each has its own set of advantages. Online programs offer flexibility, while on-campus options may provide more direct access to resources and networking opportunities.
Cost
Consider the total cost of the program. This includes tuition, books, certification exam fees, and any additional expenses. Some programs offer financial aid or payment plans to make the cost more manageable.
Support Services
Look for programs that offer comprehensive support services such as career counseling, job placement assistance, and additional resources. These services can significantly impact your success during and after the program.
By evaluating these factors, you can select a pharmacy technician program that aligns with your career goals and sets you up for success.
Monroe Community College – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
The Monroe Community College (MCC) offers a well-rounded Pharmacy Technician Certification Program aimed at equipping students with the skills needed to excel in various pharmacy settings.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: Recognized for delivering quality education, ensuring graduates meet industry standards.
- Curriculum: Encompasses pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy law, ethics, and pharmacology.
- Externship: Hands-on experience through local pharmacy placements.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for the PTCE and other national certifications.
Curriculum and Training
The program’s curriculum is designed to provide thorough training in key areas:
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Ensures proficiency in medication dosages.
- Pharmacology: Comprehensive knowledge of various medications.
- Patient Communication: Effective interaction skills with patients.
- Inventory Management: Understanding inventory systems and control.
Externship
MCC’s program includes an essential externship component. This practical training helps students gain real-world experience, which is vital for career readiness.
Delivery Format
The program offers a hybrid format, combining both online and on-campus learning. This flexibility allows students to balance their studies with other commitments.
For more information, visit Monroe Community College Pharmacy Technician Certification Program.
Finger Lakes Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) offers a focused Pharmacy Technician Program suited for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field.
Program Features
- Accreditation: Meets industry standards for pharmacy technician education.
- Curriculum: Covers vital areas such as pharmacy law, ethics, and pharmaceutical calculations.
- Externship: Provides hands-on training in local pharmacies.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for national certification exams.
Curriculum
FLCC’s curriculum includes:
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Mastering medication dosages.
- Pharmacology: Understanding drug interactions and side effects.
- Pharmacy Law: Knowledge of legal regulations in pharmacy practice.
- Customer Service: Developing skills to enhance patient interaction.
Externship Opportunities
The program’s externship component places students in local pharmacies, giving them practical experience and a better understanding of their roles as pharmacy technicians.
Delivery Format
The program is offered in a flexible format, allowing students to choose between online and on-campus options.
For more information, visit Finger Lakes Community College Pharmacy Technician Program.
Career Outcomes and Job Placement
Completing a pharmacy technician program in Rochester, NY, opens up a range of career opportunities. Many programs provide job placement assistance, helping graduates secure positions in various settings such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics.
Employment Opportunities
- Retail Pharmacies: Work in drugstores and supermarkets.
- Hospitals: Assist in hospital pharmacies to manage medications.
- Clinics: Support clinic operations by handling prescriptions and patient interactions.
- Mail-Order Pharmacies: Manage prescriptions through online or phone orders.
Job Placement Services
- Resume and Interview Preparation: Assistance in creating professional resumes and preparing for job interviews.
- Job Fairs and Networking: Opportunities to meet potential employers and network within the industry.
- Job Search Assistance: Guidance in finding job openings that match your skill set and career goals.
By completing a pharmacy technician program, you position yourself for a fulfilling career with various job opportunities.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pharmacy technician program in Rochester, NY, is a significant step toward a rewarding career in healthcare. Whether you opt for Bryant & Stratton’s robust training or Genesee Community College’s thorough certification course, each offers essential components to ensure your success. Make an informed decision, and you’ll be well on your way to a promising career as a pharmacy technician.
For more detailed information on each program, visit the Bryant & Stratton Pharmacy Technician Program and the Genesee Community College Pharmacy Technician Certification Course.
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with these or other pharmacy technician programs in Rochester, NY, in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!