Not in Sacramento? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in San Bernardino, San Buenaventura (Ventura), San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, San Mateo, Santa Ana, Santa Clara, Santa Clarita, and across California.
Looking for the best Pharmacy Technician programs in Sacramento, CA? We’ve got you covered.
Our guide highlights top programs that offer hands-on training, esteemed accreditations, and strong career support.
Start your journey to becoming a certified pharmacy technician with the right program tailored to your needs.
Cosumnes River College – Pharmacy Technology Program
The Pharmacy Technology program at Cosumnes River College (CRC) in Sacramento provides you with an Associate in Science degree and a Certificate of Achievement in Pharmacy Technician.
The program is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council of Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE). This ensures that you receive an education that meets national standards.
Core Components of the Program
- Didactic Instruction: Engage in classes that teach federal, state, and local pharmacy laws, regulations, and professional standards.
- Laboratory Training: Practice skills in a controlled environment before entering real-world settings.
- Practicum Experience: Gain hands-on experience in various pharmacy settings.
Curriculum Highlights
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Learn how to accurately calculate medication dosages.
- Information Management: Understand how to handle patient and medication data effectively.
- Sterile Product Preparation: Master the packaging and labeling of sterile products.
- Externships: Complete practical placements in various pharmacy environments.
Graduates are well-prepared for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and can readily secure entry-level positions in retail and hospital pharmacies.
Charles A. Jones Career and Education Center – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Charles A. Jones Career and Education Center offers a 36-week, 1080-hour program designed to set you on a successful career path in the pharmaceutical field.
The program stands out with its eligibility for veterans’ education benefits, helping veterans of the U.S. armed forces access quality education.
Program Features
- Medication Dispensing: Learn the proper methods for dispensing medications.
- Accuracy in Calculations: Develop skills to ensure precise medication measurements.
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understand the legal and ethical standards guiding pharmacy work.
- Inventory Control: Master techniques for managing pharmacy inventory.
- Medical Terminology: Gain a strong foundation in pharmacy-specific language and terms.
This curriculum helps you excel in essential pharmacy tasks and prepares you for certification exams and employment.
Carrington College – Pharmacy Technology Program
The Carrington College Pharmacy Technology program in Sacramento offers a solid pathway into the field. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges and approved by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy, the program ensures you meet high educational standards.
What You Will Learn
- Prescription Information Collection: Gather necessary details for processing prescriptions.
- Medication Measurement: Understand precise methods for measuring medication amounts.
- Prescription Packaging and Labeling: Learn how to properly package and label medications.
- Inventory Organization: Effectively manage pharmacy stock.
- Payment and Insurance Processing: Handle payments and insurance claims accurately.
- Patient Data Entry: Enter patient information into computer systems efficiently.
The program prepares you to take the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) national certification exam and to thrive as a pharmacy technician.
UC Davis – Pharmacy Technician Extern Training Program
The UC Davis Pharmacy Technician Extern Training Program collaborates with the Charles A. Jones Career and Education Center to offer a rigorous 6-week externship experience.
Program Structure
- 30 Weeks of Didactic and Lab: Engage in classroom instruction and lab practice focusing on core pharmacy skills.
- Two 120-hour Externships: Apply your knowledge in real healthcare settings at UC Davis Health.
Program Benefits
- Hands-On Experience: Gain practical skills under the supervision of seasoned professionals.
- Advanced Resources: Access UC Davis Health’s cutting-edge resources and diverse patient population.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with faculty, pharmacy technicians, and healthcare professionals, enhancing your job prospects.
This program blends academic excellence with practical experience, providing you with a rounded education in pharmacy technology.
UEI College – Pharmacy Technician Program
UEI College in Sacramento offers a 10-month hybrid Pharmacy Technician program. This flexible format allows you to balance online learning with hands-on training.
Key Features
- Dosage Calculations: Master the skills needed to calculate proper dosages.
- Solution Preparations: Learn how to prepare various types of medications.
- Medication Preparation: Gain experience working in sterile and non-sterile environments.
- Patient Information Management: Understand how to enter and handle patient data efficiently.
- Pharmacy Billing and Insurance: Get trained in processing pharmacy billing and insurance claims.
- Externship Experience: Apply your skills in a real-world setting with an approved local employer.
Financial Aid and Enrollment
- Financial Assistance: Financial aid options are available for those who qualify.
- Entry Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is necessary for enrollment.
The program equips you with the skills needed for entry-level pharmacy technician positions and offers practical experience to enhance your employability.
By considering these diverse and well-structured Pharmacy Technician programs in Sacramento, CA, you are placing yourself on the path to a rewarding and dynamic career in pharmacy technology.
Asher College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Asher College offers a flexible Pharmacy Technician program tailored to meet diverse career goals, whether you aim for career advancement or entrepreneurship in the pharmacy field.
Program Highlights
- Pharmacy Practices: Gain a strong foundation in the daily operations and responsibilities of a pharmacy technician.
- Pharmacy Operations: Learn about the essential administrative and operational aspects of working in a pharmacy environment.
- Pharmacology: Understand various medications and their effects on the human body.
- Calculations: Master the accurate calculation of medication dosages.
- Laboratory Skills: Develop hands-on skills in a controlled lab setting.
- Real-World Training: Utilize PioneerRx Pharmacy Software, which is widely used across independent pharmacies, to hone practical skills.
Certification and Licensure
The program prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and supports you through the state licensure application process. With personalized attention and a supportive learning environment, Asher College places you in the optimal position for career success.
For more information about enrolling in Asher College’s program, visit their official webpage.
Futuro Health – Pharmacy Technician Program
Futuro Health offers a 3-4 month Pharmacy Technician Program, integrating online and in-person training to provide a robust education for aspiring pharmacy technicians.
Key Components
- Hands-On Training: Obtain practical skills by performing tasks such as counting pills, labeling, and packing medications.
- Career Advancement: Explore further career opportunities, including the path to becoming a certified compounded sterile preparation technician (CSPT).
- Micro-Credentials: Earn various micro-credentials that enhance your employability and skill set.
- Job Growth and Salary: Benefit from the promising job outlook with a projected 13% growth in California (2018-2028) and a median annual salary of $45,090.
This program ensures that you are ready for diverse roles within the pharmacy sector. For more details, visit Futuro Health’s program page.
InterCoast Colleges – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at InterCoast Colleges provides a comprehensive education designed to meet industry standards and certification requirements.
Program Curriculum
- Patient Records Management: Learn to accurately enter, update, and maintain patient records.
- Pharmacy Software: Get familiar with industry-driven computer software used in pharmacies.
- Prescription Pharmacology: Gain an understanding of various drug classes and their effects on patients.
- Medication Requests: Develop the skills to handle medication requests efficiently.
InterCoast Colleges, with locations in Fairfield and Rancho Cordova, offers convenient study options for students in the Sacramento area. The program prepares you for state and national certification exams, positioning you for success in this growing field.
Learn more by visiting the InterCoast Colleges’ program page.
California Nurses Educational Institute – Pharmacy Technician Program
The California Nurses Educational Institute (CNEI) offers a 540-hour Pharmacy Technician program, comprising lab instruction and a real-world externship.
Program Details
- Lab Instruction: Engage in comprehensive lab activities that cover core pharmacy skills.
- Externship: Complete a 240-hour externship to gain valuable hands-on experience in pharmacy settings.
- Core Topics: Study areas include pharmacy law, calculations, non-sterile and sterile compounding, billing, and inventory management.
- Licensing and Certification: Graduates are ready to apply for California State Board of Pharmacy licensing and national certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
The CNEI program provides a solid foundation for roles in both institutional and community pharmacy settings and includes robust career services to help you secure employment.
More details are available on their program page.
Choosing the Best Pharmacy Technician Program in Sacramento
When selecting a Pharmacy Technician program in Sacramento, several crucial factors should guide your decision.
Key Considerations
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by relevant bodies, reflecting high educational standards.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Look for programs covering regulatory standards, medication preparation, and patient interaction.
- Hands-On Training: Check for externships or practical training opportunities that offer real-world experience.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the overall costs, including tuition and additional fees, and explore financial aid options available.
- Career Support: Look for programs offering career services that include job placement assistance and professional development resources.
Making an Informed Choice
- Research Schools: Contact the schools directly to understand the specifics of each program.
- Visit Campuses: If possible, visit the campuses to get a feel of the learning environment.
- Read Reviews: Look for student testimonials and alumni reviews to gain insight into their experiences.
- Compare Programs: Analyze and compare program details to find the one that aligns best with your career goals and personal circumstances.
Selecting the right Pharmacy Technician program sets the foundation for a successful career in pharmacy technology.
Conclusion
Pharmacy Technician Programs in Sacramento, CA, offer varied options tailored to different career aspirations. Whether seeking flexibility, hands-on experience, or advanced training, each program has distinct strengths. Make an informed choice to embark on a rewarding career in pharmacy technology.
Explore the detailed program links provided for each institution to gain more insights and take the next step towards becoming a pharmacy technician.