Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our list of Pharmacy Technician Programs in Burlington.
Thinking about becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Vermont? You’re in luck.
This guide highlights the top Pharmacy Technician programs in Vermont, breaking down the best options to jumpstart your healthcare career.
Vermont Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
The Vermont Technical College offers an online Pharmacy Technician Certification program designed to prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. This program is entirely online, providing flexibility and can be completed in one year or less. The curriculum includes courses on pharmacy law and ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, and the historical and contemporary roles of pharmacy technicians in healthcare.
Notable faculty members such as Melissa Dunworth, a certified pharmacy technician since 1997, and Dr. Betty Stahl, who has a doctorate in pharmacy from Shenandoah University, bring a wealth of experience to the program. One of the standout features is the opportunity for you to complete a 100+ hour externship with a national pharmacy chain, providing practical experience in a real-world setting.
This certification is recognized across many states, enhancing employability nationwide. There are no prerequisites for enrollment; however, you should verify state-specific certification requirements. With its flexible and thorough structure, Vermont Technical College’s program effectively equips you for successful careers in the pharmaceutical field.
Community College of Vermont – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Community College of Vermont (CCV) offers a Pharmacy Technician program tailored to equip you with the skills required to work under a licensed pharmacist’s supervision. This certificate program focuses on essential areas such as prescription filling, medication storage, and professional customer service. A unique aspect of this program is that its courses can be applied toward CCV’s Health Science (A.S.) program, offering you the chance to further your education.
The curriculum covers pharmacy law and ethics, mathematical calculations for prescription orders, and medical terminology specific to the pharmacy sector. Emphasizing quality customer service, the program trains you in clear communication, sensitivity to customer needs, and confidentiality maintenance. You will also learn about drug classifications and common drug interactions, crucial for safe medication handling.
With a total requirement of 24 credits, this program offers a structured learning path to ensure comprehensive education. CCV provides a supportive environment with resources like access to the library and supportive staff. It’s advisable to contact CCV directly for detailed information about program costs, class hours, and other specifics.
Overall, CCV’s program prepares you for a career as a pharmacy technician, with the added benefit of contributing toward an associate degree in health sciences.
The University of Vermont Health Network and the Community College of Vermont – Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship Program
The University of Vermont Health Network and the Community College of Vermont have introduced a Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship Program. This initiative responds to the growing demand for healthcare workers and offers you fully-funded coursework through CCV and full-time employment at either The University of Vermont Medical Center or Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC).
Starting at a minimum wage of $15.50 per hour, you receive pay increases upon program completion. The apprenticeship includes both classroom learning and on-the-job training, creating a robust foundation for a career in the healthcare sector. As a trainee, you will handle tasks such as medication preparation and inventory management for inpatient settings, and prescription order handling, patient assistance, and medication preparation for mail delivery in outpatient settings.
The program is part of the UVM Health Network’s Access Action Plan aimed at addressing staffing needs, enhancing technology, and building partnerships with local entities. Funded partly by a grant from the Vermont Department of Labor, this partnership is a powerful step towards empowering individuals and meeting local pharmacy needs.
The collaboration ensures a pathway to solid careers in the healthcare industry, addressing immediate workforce shortages and setting you up for long-term success.
Vermont Department of Labor – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Vermont Department of Labor offers an extensive training program for aspiring pharmacy technicians, accredited by the National Healthcare Association (NHA). This program equips you with comprehensive knowledge and skills tailored for work in various pharmacy settings such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
The curriculum spans several key areas:
- Pharmaceutical calculations: Learning precise calculations for dispensing medications.
- Medication preparation and dispensing: Gaining hands-on experience in preparing and dispensing medications.
- Inventory management: Understanding how to manage stock and maintain inventory levels.
- Customer service: Training in effective communication and customer support skills.
Students benefit from hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy environment, gaining practical skills essential for real-world application. The program boasts flexibility, with classes available during both day and evening to accommodate different schedules, typically lasting around 10 weeks.
Class sizes are kept small to ensure personalized attention, optimizing the learning experience. Prospective students should contact the Department for specific details concerning tuition fees and other costs.
Overall, the Vermont Department of Labor Pharmacy Technician Program stands out for its accredited, high-quality education and flexible, student-friendly training options, making it a viable choice for individuals pursuing a career in pharmacy.
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
The Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) provides an opportunity through its Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program for residents to embark on a career as certified pharmacy technicians. Funded by VSAC, this program covers crucial training areas such as:
- Medication dispensing
- Compounding
- Inventory management
- Customer service
Emphasizing hands-on learning, students participate in externships that provide practical experience in real pharmacy settings, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and professional practice. The program caters to individuals of all ages who meet VSAC’s eligibility criteria and can be completed in a short time frame, enabling graduates to enter the workforce quickly.
An attractive feature is its affordability, with tuition costs fully covered for eligible students. Prospective students should be prepared for the commitment required to adhere to the program’s schedule and academic standards to ensure successful certification.
This program offers a valuable pathway to a dynamic career in the pharmaceutical industry, underscoring the importance of practical experience and professional development.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Pharmacy Technician Program in Vermont
Selecting a pharmacy technician program is an important step in your career path. Here are some key factors to consider to ensure the program aligns with your goals:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA). Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards.
- Program Length and Curriculum: Assess if the program duration fits your schedule and whether the curriculum covers essential topics such as pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy law, medication preparation, and customer service.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Investigate the cost of the program and the availability of financial aid options. Some programs offer fully-funded training through grants or scholarships.
- Learning Format: Decide if you prefer an online, on-campus, or hybrid learning format. Online programs provide flexibility, whereas on-campus programs may offer more hands-on experience.
- Job Placement Assistance: Look for programs that offer job placement assistance upon completion. This can significantly improve your chances of securing a job post-certification.
- Student Reviews: Read student reviews to gain insights into the program’s effectiveness and faculty support. Reviews often highlight strengths and areas needing improvement.
- Externship Opportunities: Externships provide practical experience. Check if the program includes externship opportunities with reputable pharmacies or healthcare facilities.
- State-Specific Requirements: Verify that the program meets the certification requirements for pharmacy technicians in Vermont to ensure your qualifications are valid for employment within the state.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion: Start Your Journey as a Pharmacy Technician
Embarking on a career as a pharmacy technician in Vermont is an exciting opportunity. By choosing the right program, you set yourself up for success in this dynamic healthcare field. Evaluate programs based on accreditation, curriculum, cost, learning format, and job placement assistance to make an informed decision. Whether you prefer online flexibility, practical externships, or advancing your education with a degree, Vermont offers a range of programs to meet your needs. Start your journey today and make a positive impact in the pharmaceutical industry.