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Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician program in Washington can be daunting.
This guide simplifies your search by highlighting top programs that offer the best training, flexibility, and career opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a certificate or an associate degree, these programs can help you kickstart a rewarding career in the pharmaceutical industry.
Washington Technical Institute – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
The Washington Technical Institute offers an adaptable and self-paced online Pharmacy Technician Certificate program. This program is accredited by the Middle States Association Commission on Secondary Schools, which ensures a high standard for its curriculum.
Key Features:
- Tuition: The cost is $899, with several payment options available.
- Course Length: Students have five months to complete the program.
- Course Access: The program is available online 24/7, providing flexibility for busy schedules.
- Curriculum: Includes pharmacy calculations, law, pharmacology, medical terminology, and sterile techniques.
- Certification: Prepares students for the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) national certification.
However, it is important to note that this program is not available for students residing in Washington state due to state restrictions on online pharmacy technician programs.
Upon completion, graduates can explore opportunities in retail pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. The program also provides digital textbooks and interactive learning sessions led by qualified instructors.
Renton Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Renton Technical College Pharmacy Technician program is designed to equip students with essential skills through comprehensive hands-on training. The curriculum covers compounding products, intravenous solutions, pharmaceutical calculations, and computer skills.
Key Features:
- Externship Opportunities: Includes real-world experience in both retail and hospital pharmacies.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates must pass a national certification exam for the Washington State Board of Pharmacy license.
- Tuition Grants: The program is TAA-eligible and available for veterans and their spouses through a grant.
- Admission Requirements: Students must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and be fluent in English. Additionally, a nationwide criminal background check and immunizations are required.
The program offers a Certificate of Completion, an Associate of Applied Science degree, and an AAS-Transfer degree. With a strong focus on practical training and career readiness, this program supports students in achieving their licensure and gaining employment in varied pharmacy settings.
North Seattle College – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
North Seattle College presents a robust Pharmacy Technician Certificate program with a certification exam pass rate of 99.6%. This program focuses on real-world skills through extensive hands-on training and practical experience.
Key Features:
- Class Schedule: On-campus classes held two days per week.
- Externships: Includes 432 hours of clinical experience at leading community sites.
- Curriculum: Emphasizes outpatient, aseptic inpatient settings, pharmacology, and pharmacy software (PioneerRx).
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy.
- Flexibility: Requires minimal prerequisites and offers evening classes.
The program is structured to ensure students gain the knowledge and experience needed to excel in the pharmacy technician field, making it a beneficial option for those seeking comprehensive and hands-on education.
Clover Park Technical College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Clover Park Technical College (CPTC) offers an ASHP/ACPE accredited Pharmacy Technician program with a strong emphasis on practical experience. The program prepares students for diverse roles in healthcare settings.
Key Features:
- Experienced Instructors: Instructors like Trisha Autry bring extensive industry experience to the classroom.
- Program Length: Choose between a three-quarter certificate program or a five-quarter Associate of Applied Technology degree.
- On-the-Job Training: Includes a three-month hands-on training period.
- Career Services: The program offers career services to assist with employment placement.
Both the certificate and associate degree programs are designed to meet industry needs, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to move forward in their careers.
Clark College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Clark College Pharmacy Technician Program offers two pathway options: a Certificate of Proficiency and an Associate in Applied Technology (AAT) degree in Pharmacy Technician Leadership.
Key Features:
- Hands-on Learning: Emphasizes practical experience in a mock pharmacy setting.
- Certification: The program is approved by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
- Leadership Training: The AAT degree includes courses on leadership, business relations, and professional development.
- Job Growth: Anticipates a 4% job growth by 2029 with median wages of $20.65 per hour.
- Vaccination Requirement: Students must be vaccinated against COVID-19.
Completion of this program ensures students are well-prepared for national certification exams and equips them with the skills needed for career advancement in a dynamic and growing field.
Charter College – Certificate in Pharmacy Technician
Charter College offers a well-structured 10-month Pharmacy Technician Certificate program, focusing on essential skills needed to excel in pharmacy technician roles.
Key Features:
- Program Duration: 10 months.
- Externship: Includes a 180-hour externship for real-world experience.
- Credit Hours: Requires completion of 63 credit hours.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for the national Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam and state licensure.
- Blended Learning Format: Provides flexibility with a combination of online and in-person courses.
This program is designed to provide students with the practical knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to succeed as a pharmacy technician.
By providing a range of learning formats, externship opportunities, and a focus on certification preparation, these programs ensure you are well-equipped for a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician.
Wenatchee Valley College – Pharmacy Technician Program
The Wenatchee Valley College Pharmacy Technician Program is accredited by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy, PTCB, and ASHP. The program provides both a one-year certificate and a two-year Associate of Applied Science-Transfer (AAS-T) degree.
Key Features:
- Program Duration: One year (Certificate), Two years (AAS-T)
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers drug products, calculations, dispensing techniques, inventory management, and Washington pharmacy law.
- Hands-on Training: Mix of classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical training.
- Certification Prep: Prepares students for the PTCE exam with high pass rates.
- Job Readiness: Meets state licensing requirements and emphasizes continuing education.
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for the PTCE exam and can meet state licensing requirements. To explore more about the program, visit Wenatchee Valley College.
Skagit Valley College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Skagit Valley College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that focuses on practical, hands-on experience with modern pharmacy operations.
Key Features:
- Practical Training: In-depth lab work and practicum in various pharmacy settings.
- Curriculum Coverage: Drug products, calculations, dispensing techniques, inventory management, and pharmacy law.
- Modern Software: Uses PioneerRx pharmacy management software for real-world training.
- Certification Readiness: Graduates are prepared for the National Certification Exam and state licensure.
This program is designed to equip you with the necessary skills and experience through a practical-oriented curriculum. For more details, visit Skagit Valley College.
Edmonds College – Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
Edmonds College offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician Certificate program, emphasizing practical and hands-on training.
Key Features:
- Extensive Training: Includes classroom, lab, and hands-on training.
- Curriculum Blocks: Organized into three thematic blocks, covering topics like medication administration, drug information research, and sterile compounding.
- Certification Focus: Prepares you for certification exams and licensure.
- Career Advancement: Supports further education, including transfer to Allied Health Education Associate degree programs.
The rich curriculum and hands-on training offer a strong foundation for your pharmacy career. Learn more about the program at Edmonds College.
Spokane Community College – Pharmacy Technician Program
Spokane Community College (SCC) offers an accredited Pharmacy Technician Program, combining classroom, lab, and clinical inpatient/outpatient pharmacy training.
Key Features:
- Program Length: Four quarters.
- Practical Experience: 352 hours of real-world practical experience in community and hospital settings.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers drug products, dosages, calculations, IV preparation, and pharmacy law.
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma/GED, a national background check, and an interview.
- Cost: Varies by residency status.
Graduates will be well-prepared for the National Certification Exam and state licensure requirements. For more information on the program, visit Spokane Community College.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pharmacy Technician Program
When selecting from the available Pharmacy Technician Programs in Washington, consider several key factors to ensure it aligns with your career aspirations and lifestyle:
- Accreditation:
- Program Length and Format:
- Tuition Costs and Financial Aid:
- Hands-on Training:
- Job Placement Support:
- Comprehensive Curriculum:
- Certification Preparation:
- Program Reputation:
Evaluating these factors thoroughly will help you choose a program that best supports your professional goals and personal needs.
Pharmacy Technician Programs By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
Choosing the right Pharmacy Technician program is crucial for your career success. Each of these Pharmacy Technician Programs in Washington offers a unique blend of practical training, flexibility, and career support. Consider what fits best with your career goals, financial situation, and personal schedule.
Remember to weigh the factors that matter most to you—whether they be accreditation, hands-on training, job placement, or program length. Visit the program websites provided to further explore your options and take the next step toward a rewarding career in pharmacy technology.
Empower yourself with the best education and training to become a skilled pharmacy technician in Washington. Your future in the pharmaceutical industry begins with the right choice.