Not in San Jose? Check out our lists of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Santa Ana, Santa Clara, Santa Clarita, Santa Maria, Santa Rosa, Simi Valley, Stockton, Sunnyvale, Temecula, and across California.
Want to jumpstart your career in healthcare?
Explore the top pharmacy technician programs in San Jose CA that can help you gain the skills needed in today’s fast-paced healthcare environment.
This article highlights the best schools, their unique offerings, and what you can expect from each program.
Get ready to find the perfect fit for your educational and career goals.
Mission College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Mission College in San Jose, CA offers a non-credit Pharmacy Technician Program that provides tuition-free courses to residents of the West Valley-Mission service area. This nine-month program includes both classroom and laboratory instruction, tutoring, and clinical externship training in a pharmacy setting.
The curriculum at Mission College covers:
- Pharmacy industry insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the pharmacy field.
- Ethics and integrity: Learn the ethical standards and accuracy required in this career.
- Interpersonal and communication skills: Develop critical skills for effective interaction with patients and healthcare professionals.
- Multitasking and computer literacy: Enhance your capabilities to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
- Externship training: Apply your knowledge in real-world pharmacy settings.
Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion, making them eligible for licensure by the California State Board of Pharmacy and for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. The program emphasizes hands-on training conducted by experienced pharmacists and certified pharmacy technicians, ensuring practical and relevant education.
Pros:
- Tuition-free: Accessible education for community residents.
- Hands-on training: Real-world experience through clinical externships.
- Experienced faculty: Learn from seasoned professionals.
- Job placement assistance: Support for employment post-completion.
Overall, the Mission College Pharmacy Technician Program offers valuable opportunities for those interested in pursuing a pharmacy technician career in the San Jose area.
Foothill College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Foothill College offers an ACPE/ASHP accredited Pharmacy Technician Program. This program provides comprehensive training for aspiring pharmacy technicians with a choice of entering in the fall quarter. It spans nine months, after which students can earn a Certificate of Program Completion.
The program features:
- Two program options: Choose between a one-year certification course or a two-year program leading to an Associate in Science Degree.
- Diverse curriculum: Topics include receiving, dispensing, compounding, and labeling pharmaceutical products.
- Class size: Limited to 24 students for personalized instruction.
- Hands-on training: Practical experience in various pharmacy tasks.
Graduates can apply for registration with the California State Board of Pharmacy and are eligible to take the PTCE for certification. The program costs approximately $1,400, and financial aid opportunities may be available.
Pros:
- Accreditation: ACPE/ASHP accredited, ensuring quality training.
- Comprehensive instruction: Covers all necessary skills for a pharmacy technician.
- Certification path: Prepares you for state and national certification exams.
- Small class size: Ensures individualized attention and support.
The Foothill College Pharmacy Technician Program provides a solid foundation for those seeking a well-respected career as a pharmacy technician.
San Jose State University – Online Pharmacy Technician Classes
San Jose State University offers online Pharmacy Technician classes designed for those seeking entry-level employment in pharmacies. This program prepares students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and equips you with essential knowledge and skills.
The curriculum includes:
- Core topics: Orientation to Pharmacy, Pharmacy Law and Ethics, Pharmacy Calculations, and Pharmacology.
- Practical experience: Online lab modules focusing on retail pharmacy procedures.
- Comprehensive training: Communication skills, billing, and body systems.
You will need a satisfactory background check, drug screen, professional liability insurance, and immunizations to participate. The cost of the program is $2,995, inclusive of course materials.
Pros:
- Flexible format: Complete coursework online at your own pace.
- Comprehensive coverage: A robust curriculum that prepares you for certification exams.
- Practical experience: Hands-on learning through online labs.
The San Jose State University Online Pharmacy Technician classes offer a convenient and effective pathway into the field of pharmacy.
Carrington College – Pharmacy Technology Program
Carrington College in San Jose, CA, offers a Pharmacy Technology Program that prepares students for a fulfilling career as pharmacy technicians. This program emphasizes hands-on training, covering essential areas such as pharmacy calculations, prescription processing, and retail operations.
Key features include:
- Real-world experience: Gain practical exposure through externships.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
- Convenient options: Multiple campus locations and online learning options.
- Career services: Post-graduation support in job placement.
The program delivers training by experienced professionals, ensuring quality education. Carrington College also offers financial assistance programs to support students in achieving their educational goals.
Pros:
- Hands-on training: Direct experience in real pharmacy settings.
- Accreditation: Assurance of a high-quality program.
- Job placement: Career services to help secure employment.
- Flexible learning: Online and campus-based options.
Overall, Carrington College’s Pharmacy Technology Program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and commitment to student success.
San Francisco State University – Pharmacy Technician Certification Course
San Francisco State University offers a Pharmacy Technician Certification Course available in two formats: an in-person/online hybrid course or a self-paced online course. Designed for flexibility, both formats prepare students for national certification exams, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge.
- Hybrid format: This option includes an 80-hour clinical externship, enhancing hands-on experience. All textbooks, materials, and the PTCB exam fee are included.
- Self-paced online course: Accessible for up to nine months, with an optional three-month extension, the online course provides the same comprehensive curriculum as the hybrid format.
The curriculum covers essential topics such as:
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Stay compliant with industry regulations.
- Pharmacy Calculations: Develop precise calculation skills.
- Medication Preparation: Learn proper medication handling and preparation.
Pharmacy Technicians work under a pharmacist’s direction, responsible for preparing medications in various settings like retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. The industry projects a 4% growth in employment by 2029, driven by an aging population and a shortage of registered pharmacists.
Pros:
- Flexible learning options: Choose between hybrid or self-paced formats.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Covers all necessary pharmacy technician skills.
- Included externship and exam fees: Added value for practical experience and certification.
For those looking for adaptable learning options, the San Francisco State University Pharmacy Technician Certification Course is a suitable choice.
Claremont Unified School District – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Claremont Unified School District Pharmacy Technician Program provides thorough training for entry-level positions. Offered in a hybrid format, it combines online and classroom instruction for maximum flexibility.
Program highlights include:
- Basic pharmacology: Understand drug classifications and purposes.
- Pharmacy calculations: Master essential mathematical skills.
- Medical terminology: Learn the language used in healthcare settings.
- Anatomy and physiology: Gain foundational knowledge of the human body.
- Pharmacy operations: Grasp the daily functions and responsibilities.
A 200-hour externship at a pharmacy provides real-world experience. The program costs $2,995 per term, with financial assistance available for eligible students.
Admission requirements include:
- Passing a pre-registration assessment: Measure your readiness for the program.
- Clean background check: Ensure eligibility for externships.
- Sealed high school diploma transcripts: Verify your educational background.
- COVID vaccination or exemption: Comply with health regulations.
Pros:
- Hybrid format: Combines online and in-person learning.
- Extensive curriculum: Covers essential skills and knowledge.
- Hands-on externship: Real-world experience in a pharmacy.
The Claremont Unified School District Pharmacy Technician Program prepares students effectively for a pharmacy technician career.
Dreambound – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
Dreambound offers an online Pharmacy Technician Certification Program, providing flexible and convenient learning options. The program is designed to cover essential aspects of pharmacy operations, preparing students for certification exams.
Key features include:
- Pharmacology: Understand various medications and their effects.
- Medication preparation: Learn proper techniques for handling and dispensing.
- Pharmacy law and ethics: Stay compliant with industry standards.
- Skills-based curriculum: Focus on essential competencies for the profession.
- Virtual or workplace practicum: Enhance practical skills through hands-on experience.
The program also requires clinical hours, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Although specific pricing and duration details are not provided, these can be obtained by contacting Dreambound directly.
Pros:
- Flexible learning options: Complete coursework online at your convenience.
- Hands-on training: Practical experience through clinical hours.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Covers all essential pharmacy technician skills.
For those seeking flexible learning solutions in pharmacy, Dreambound’s Pharmacy Technician Certification Program is a valuable option.
Choosing the Best Pharmacy Technician Program
Selecting the right pharmacy technician program is crucial for your career success. Consider these factors to make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by relevant bodies such as ACPE or ASHP, guaranteeing a high-quality education.
- Flexibility: Look for programs offering part-time, evening, online, or hybrid options to fit your schedule.
- Cost: Compare tuition fees and explore financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans.
- Career Support: Choose programs that offer job placement assistance, externships, and career counseling.
- Curriculum: Review the curriculum for hands-on training and certification exam preparation.
- Student Reviews: Read testimonials from past students to gauge the program’s effectiveness.
- Program Length: Align the duration of the program with your career timeline, whether short-term certifications or in-depth studies are preferred.
Understanding these factors will help you find the best pharmacy technician program that aligns with your career aspirations.
Conclusion
If you are searching for Pharmacy Technician Programs in San Jose CA, multiple reputable options provide the training and skills you need to pursue this healthcare career. Programs at Mission College, Foothill College, San Jose State University, Carrington College, San Francisco State University, Claremont Unified School District, and Dreambound each offer unique benefits. Take the time to review each program carefully to find the right fit for your needs and career goals in the thriving field of pharmacy.