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How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician? This is a question we get a lot. The answer may surprise you!
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Introduction
It takes about nine months to complete the education and training required to become a pharmacy technician Some programs may be shorter and some may be longer, but most people can expect to spend about this amount of time in school. There are a few different ways to complete the education required, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
The Length of pharmacy technician Programs
There are many pharmacy technician schools that offer diploma, certificate, and associate degree programs. The length of the program depends on which type of credential you want to earn.
A diploma or certificate can be earned in as little as six months, while an associate degree takes around two years to complete. Once you have completed a pharmacy technician program you will need to pass a national certification exam to earn your credential.
Certification and Training
Certification and Training
Most pharmacy technicians obtain certification through professional organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA). Although certification is not required in all states, it may be necessary to obtain certain positions, and most employers prefer to hire certified technicians. Training programs can last anywhere from a few weeks to a year and are typically offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and private training companies.
The Job Market for Pharmacy Technicians
working as a pharmacy technician can be a great way to get started in the healthcare field. Pharmacy technicians work closely with licensed pharmacists to help dispense prescription medications to patients. They may also be responsible for tasks like answering phones, stocking shelves, and insurance paperwork.
So, how long does it take to become a pharmacy technician? The answer may surprise you—it can sometimes take as little as six weeks! Of course, the time it takes to become a pharmacy technician will vary depending on the program you choose and your prior experience. But even if you have no prior experience in the healthcare field, you can often complete a pharmacy technician training program in just a few short months.
Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll need to take and pass a national certification exam before you can start working as a pharmacy technician.After that, you’ll be ready to start applying for jobs!
With the aging Baby Boomer population and the increasing use of prescription medications, the job market for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of pharmacy technicians will grow 20% from 2018 to 2028—much faster than the average for all occupations. So now is a great time to start training to become a pharmacy technician!
Conclusion
In conclusion, it takes around two years to become a pharmacy technician. This process involves completing an accredited pharmacy technician program and passing the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE). Once you have become certified, you will need to keep your certification up-to-date by completing continuing education credits on a regular basis.
