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Want to become a pharmacy technician in San Antonio TX but not sure where to start?
Discover the best Pharmacy Technician Programs in San Antonio TX, carefully selected to jumpstart your career.
We cover essential details like program strengths, certification prep, and hands-on experience to help you make an informed choice.
Alamo Colleges District – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Alamo Colleges District offers a Pharmacy Technician Program that sets you up for success in the healthcare industry. This program is delivered online, providing flexibility for you to complete your coursework at your own pace.
Learn more about the Alamo Colleges District Pharmacy Technician Program
Key highlights of this program:
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understanding federal and state regulations and ethical practices.
- Pharmaceutical Calculations: Learning essential math skills for accurate medication dispensing.
- Pharmacology: Gaining knowledge of different drugs and their effects.
- Communication Skills: Developing effective communication strategies.
- Insurance and Inventory Procedures: Managing pharmacy operations efficiently.
- Clinical Rotations: Hands-on experience in real-world settings.
The program also prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), a nationally recognized certification. This ensures you meet most states’ licensure or registration requirements. You can also secure a 100+ hour externship at a national pharmacy chain, providing valuable on-the-job training.
San Antonio College, part of the Alamo Colleges District, has been recognized as the top community college in the nation by the Aspen Institute and one of the Top 10 colleges for Hispanics by Hispanic Outlook Magazine, which speaks to the quality of the program.
University Health – Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The University Health Pharmacy Technician Training Program offers a robust pathway to becoming a certified pharmacy technician. The program includes 480 hours of training, covering patient care and medication safety, among other essential skills.
Find out more about the University Health Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Here are key features of this program:
- Paid Position: Enroll as a Registered Pharmacy Technician Trainee and get paid.
- Hands-On Training: Gain valuable hands-on experience while employed by University Health.
- Flexible Sections: The program is divided into four sections, conducted during daytime weekdays.
- Preparation for Certification: Focus on preparing for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
- Growing Demand: Responding to the increased demand for pharmacy technicians, with a projected 5% job growth by 2031.
- No Initial Employment Requirement: Suitable for both current employees and new applicants.
Applicants must submit an application, a letter of interest, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and fulfill HR requirements set by University Health. The program ensures compliance with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy and prepares you thoroughly for your certification exam.
CalRegional – Pharmacy Technician Program
CalRegional offers a hybrid Pharmacy Technician Program in San Antonio, TX that perfectly balances flexibility with hands-on training. This program adheres to training guidelines authorized by the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Explore the CalRegional Pharmacy Technician Program
Important aspects of this program include:
- Hybrid Learning: A blend of 50% online and 50% in-person labs.
- Immediate Externship Placement: Start your externship right after coursework completion.
- High Certification Passage Rate: A notable 91% certification passing rate.
- Externship: Guaranteed 120-hour externship for practical experience.
- Broad Curriculum: Includes compounding and IV preparation using the aseptic technique.
- Job-Ready Graduates: Prepares you for roles in various settings including hospitals, retail drug stores, and clinics.
The tuition is $2,995 or less, with payment plans available. Graduates can find a plethora of job opportunities in different regions, with competitive salaries. This program provides a swift and thorough pathway into the pharmacy field.
University of the Incarnate Word – Pharmacy Technician Program
The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) Feik School of Pharmacy presents a detailed Pharmacy Technician Program tailored for a successful career in pharmacy. It combines traditional education methods with hands-on experience.
Get more details about the UIW Pharmacy Technician Program
Program features include:
- Two Program Lengths: Choose from a 45-week entry-level course or a 65-week complete program.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers anatomy, physiology, pharmaceutical calculations, compounding, and more.
- Certification Preparation: Focus on passing the PTCE.
- College Credit Hours: Earn 27-41 transferable college credit hours.
- Hands-On Training: Gain experience at local hospitals and pharmacies.
- Convenient Class Schedules: Evening classes to accommodate working students.
Accreditation candidacy by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) ensures high academic standards. A strong PTCE pass rate of 90% and excellent placement rates further underscore the program’s effectiveness.
The College of Health Care Professions – Pharmacy Technician Program
The College of Health Care Professions (CHCP) offers a succinct Pharmacy Technician Program in San Antonio, TX, enabling you to become a pharmacy technician in less than a year. This program is well-suited for those looking to enter the workforce quickly.
Discover the Pharmacy Technician Program at CHCP
Key elements of this program:
- Quick Completion: Finish your training and start working in less than a year.
- Blended Learning: A mix of online and in-person classes.
- Extensive Curriculum: Includes pharmacy calculations, medication administration, microbiology, and more.
- Hands-On Experience: Involves a pharmacy technician externship for real-world practice.
- Certification Preparation: Includes a course to review clinical skills and prepare for the certification exam.
- Real-World Pharmacy Dynamics: Understand retail pharmacy operations and patient care.
Prerequisites include a high school diploma or GED and the ability to read and write in English. Students must also pass a criminal background check. The program prepares you for the certification examination and positions you for entry-level jobs in a growing field projected to expand by 5% by 2031.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your pharmacy technician career, these programs provide the training and support you need for success. Explore each option to find the best fit for your needs.
Southwest Schools – Pharmacy Technician Program
Southwest Schools offers a Pharmacy Technician Program in San Antonio, TX, designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the pharmacy industry. The program’s objective is to provide a solid foundation in various critical areas, preparing you to excel in your role.
Learn more about the Southwest Schools Pharmacy Technician Program
Key features of this program:
- Pharmacology Skills: Training in basic pharmacology skills and the preparation of medications for dispensing.
- Pharmacy Operations: You will learn about the operational aspects of a pharmacy, including labeling, refill authorization, and transcription of physician’s orders.
- Computer Applications: Gain proficiency in business communication and computer applications vital for pharmacy operations.
- Certification Preparation: The program prepares you for the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam.
- On-The-Job Training: Includes a 125-hour externship at a pharmacy, hospital, or healthcare facility.
The length of the program varies based on your schedule:
- Day Classes: 33 weeks of classroom study followed by 5 weeks of externship.
- Night and Weekend Classes: 49 weeks of classroom study followed by 5 weeks of externship.
Graduates are prepared for roles in different settings, such as retail and hospital pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities.
UIW Feik School of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Pharmacy Technician Program at the UIW Feik School of Pharmacy offers extensive hands-on training for your pharmacy career. It prepares you for certification by combining coursework with real-world experience.
Learn more about the UIW Feik School of Pharmacy Pharmacy Technician Program
Program highlights include:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Topics covered include anatomy, physiology, pharmaceutical calculations, and compounding.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCB).
- On-Site Training: Provides practical experience through training at local hospitals and pharmacies.
- Program Lengths: Choose between a 45-week entry-level program and a 65-week complete program.
- College Credit Hours: Earn 27-41 transferable college credit hours.
Tuition for the entry-level program is $13,325, and it is eligible for VA education benefits. The program is renowned for its high PTCE pass rate and quality training.
Pima Medical Institute – Pharmacy Technician Program
Pima Medical Institute in San Antonio, TX, offers a Pharmacy Technician program designed to give you the skills needed for a successful career in various pharmacy settings. The program emphasizes hands-on training and preparation for the national certification exam.
Read more about the Pima Medical Institute Pharmacy Technician Program
What you’ll gain:
- Medication Preparation: Training in the preparation, compounding, and labeling of medications.
- Pharmacy Operations: Learn about inventory management and patient care.
- Hands-On Training: Includes lab time to simulate real-world settings.
- Career Support: Pima Medical Institute offers career services to help you find job opportunities and prepare for interviews.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you for the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (CPhT) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Graduates can pursue various roles such as pharmacy technician or IV-certified pharmacy technician in hospitals, retail pharmacies, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
How to Choose the Right Pharmacy Technician Program
Choosing the right pharmacy technician program in San Antonio, TX, can feel overwhelming. Consider these factors to find the best fit for your needs:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Pharmacy Technician Accreditation Commission (PTAC). Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards.
- Program Length and Format: Depending on your schedule, you might prefer a program that offers day, evening, or weekend classes, and that matches the pace at which you wish to complete the training.
- Curriculum: Look for programs that cover essential topics such as pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacology, and hands-on training through externships.
- Certification Preparation: Opt for programs that prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or other recognized certification exams.
- Career Services: Programs that offer job placement assistance, resume writing workshops, and interview preparation can significantly enhance your job prospects.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition fees and explore financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and payment plans. Some programs may also be eligible for VA education benefits.
- Externship Opportunities: Externships provide hands-on experience in actual pharmacy settings, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
Using these factors, you can evaluate and compare different programs, making it easier to find one that aligns with your career goals and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts on Pharmacy Technician Programs in San Antonio TX
San Antonio, TX, offers several excellent options for aspiring pharmacy technicians. Whether you’re looking for a flexible online program, hands-on training, or a combination of both, there’s a program to suit every need. Explore these quality pharmacy technician programs to kickstart your rewarding career in the healthcare industry. Your journey towards becoming a certified pharmacy technician begins here.