What is Pharmacy Technology?
The Pharmacy Technician performs technical functions under the direction of a Registered Pharmacist; including prescription preparation, inventory, repackaging, and compounding.
The essential elements of this certificate program include the history of pharmacy, pharmacy law, medical terminology, drug classification and prescription preparation.
Laboratory experience and an externship under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist are required components of the program.
What are my career options?
A few examples of workplaces in your local area:
Pharmacy Technicians can work in either a community or institutional pharmacy. Community
pharmacies consist of chain, franchise, independent, and mail-order pharmacies. Institutional
pharmacies include hospital, home healthcare, long-term care facilities, and managed-care
pharmacies.
There is a need for Pharmacy Technicians in our area. As life-saving drugs continue
to get approved and the population continues to age, the need for pharmacy technicians
will continue. Statistics from the US Department of Labor show that employment of
pharmacy technicians is expected to grow much faster than average through 2028.
What are my degree, diploma, or certificate options?
Diploma
Certificate
Length of Program
The Advanced Pharmacy Technician Diploma program may be completed in three semesters while enrolled full-time. The Entry Level Pharmacy Technician program may be completed in two semesters while enrolled full-time.
This program may be completed online, but lab and externship hours are required to be in person.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
How do I apply?
Apply to Jefferson, then fill out the Pharmacy Technology Program application. This is a selective admission program, completed applications will be reviewed and students will be selected based on readiness (completion of communication, medical terminology, and digital literacy) and past healthcare experience. Not all applicants will be granted admission.