FAQs
Q. What is a Pharmacy Technician?
A pharmacy technician is a skilled healthcare professional who works under the supervision of licensed pharmacists. Pharmacy technicians can find employment in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and compounding pharmacies.
A pharmacy technician's responsibilities can vary based on the work setting. In hospitals, pharmacy technicians may compound sterile products, prepare IV medications, automated medication dispensing equipment, stock crash carts, make trays and kits emergencies and surgeries, and manage inventory. They may also work with investigational drug services, assist in clinical trials, and compile accurate medication histories for patients.
In a retail setting, pharmacy technicians are responsible for preparing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, processing prescriptions, and interacting with patients and healthcare providers. They handle tasks such as measuring medications, packaging prescriptions, maintaining records, and operating specialized pharmacy equipment.
This career combines elements of healthcare, technology, and customer service. It offers opportunities in various environments, including neighborhood pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, clinics, nursing homes, prisons, the military, and veterinary practices.
Q. How can one work as a Pharmacy Technician in California?
To work as a pharmacy technician in California, individuals must obtain a license from the California State Board of Pharmacy. For more details regarding licensing requirements, visit the California State Board of Pharmacy website.
Q. Where can a pharmacy technician find employment?
Pharmacy technicians have a wide array of employment opportunities, from retail pharmacies to hospitals and long-term care facilities. They can also explore unique settings such as mail-order pharmacies, compounding pharmacies, prisons, the military, veterinary practices, or government agencies. For those interested in the business side, pharmaceutical companies and insurance companies are also viable options. The field is diverse, with opportunities in home health care services, nuclear pharmacies, and specialty pharmacies.
Q. What is the hourly mean wage in California?
- Hourly mean wage in California: $ 26.79 per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information.
Note: The salary and employment outlook is for California and will vary depending on skill, experience, employer, and geographic location.
Q. How can I become a Pharmacy Technician at College of the Canyons? How long does the program take to complete?
At College of the Canyons, we understand the importance of flexibility. Our 18-unit certification program for pharmacy technicians is designed to be completed in just two semesters, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments. The program is delivered in a blended format, combining online classes with on-campus laboratory sessions. Students can earn either a Certificate of Completion or pursue an Associate of Science (AS) degree using these credits and completing general education requirements. You can apply for a license from the California State Board of Pharmacy upon completion.
Q. How do I get started? What are the prerequisites for the program?
Submit an online application for the Pharmacy Technology program within the application period. (Link coming Soon!)
The Pharmacy Technology program does not require any prerequisite courses for enrollment. However, prospective students must attend and complete the mandatory program orientation. This orientation provides detailed information about the program, clinical experience, ACPE/ASHP accreditation, licensing, and careers in pharmacy. Fluency in written and verbal English is essential, and basic math skills are necessary for successful program completion. Although there are no specific prerequisites, students must meet California's minimum high school graduation requirements for public schools, ensuring a foundational level of education for this program.
- Highly Recommended: Have basic English language reading, writing, and speaking skills, and/or be at an ESL Intermediate High level
- Highly Recommended: Have basic math skills
* College of the Canyons offers several non-credit classes in English and math free of charge. Students who may not meet the required English and basic math skills for the Pharmacy Technology program are encouraged to take these classes prior to enrollment to improve their proficiency and increase their chances of success in the program.
Q. What other important information do I need to know?
Background Screening, Substance Testing, and Vaccination Requirements: Your eligibility for clinical experience placement and future employment as a pharmacy technician may be affected by the following:
- History of illegal drug use
- Criminal record
- Immunization status
These factors are subject to regulations set by externship sites, employers, and State Boards of Pharmacy. The program curriculum includes a mandatory clinical externship. Participation in the program requires passing a criminal background check and a comprehensive 10-panel drug screening, which includes testing for marijuana, as mandated by the hosting agency. Failure to meet these requirements will result in ineligibility for clinical placement, preventing you from continuing the program.
If you have any questions or concerns about passing a criminal background check, please contact the program director for more information and guidance.