How Long Does It Take To Become a Pharmacy Technician
Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician? Wondering how long it takes to become one? Look no further! In this article, we'll explore the common duties of a pharmacy technician, how long pharmacy technician classes usually are, the time you need to prepare for your pharmacy technician exams, and more! Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to switch careers, we've got you covered.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE):
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Offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
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It is a computer-based test consisting of 90 multiple-choice questions. The exam fee is $129.
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You must complete a state-approved training program or have at least 500 hours of work experience to be eligible.
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The unofficial score report is available immediately after the exam. This score report shows whether you passed or failed the exam. Official score reports will be available three weeks after the exam date. Your official score report, certificate, and wallet card are accessible through your PTCB account.
Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT):
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Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
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You can take the exam online or in person, and it consists of 100 questions in total.
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You must complete a state-approved training program or at least 1,200 hours of supervised pharmacy-related work.
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The NHA will send an email notification once the test results are available, and you need to log in to your NHA account. If you pass, your certificate will be available after the exam. You must download the NHA handbook for more details about the exam process and requirements.
Both certifications confirm your knowledge and competence as a pharmacy technician. Your choice may depend on factors such as your preferences and the requirements of potential employers or state regulations. Feel free to read our blog post on becoming a pharmacy technician to learn which states require certification or licensing.
How much does a Pharmacy Technician make?
As of May 2022, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the annual salary for pharmacy technicians can range from $29,640 to $50,640. The hourly wage, on the other hand, can range from $14.25 to $24.35. About job opportunities, the BLS projects a 6 percent growth for employment of pharmacy technicians from 2022 to 2032. On average, there are about 44,900 job openings for pharmacy technicians each year!
What is the job outlook for Pharmacy Technicians?
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is exceptionally promising, making it an ideal career choice for aspiring medical professionals. With the demand for prescription medications on the rise, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians continues to grow! To help you further increase your awareness about the job outlook of this field, we have written a blog discussing the job outlook of a pharmacy technician.
Final Thoughts
You can enjoy a stable and fulfilling job helping others manage their medication as a pharmacy technician without having to go through years of studying. With the help of Dreambound, finding suitable healthcare classes becomes more accessible. Take the time to explore the options and ensure you meet the requirements to embark on your journey toward becoming a CPhT. Remember to research and compare programs to find the best fit for your goals and needs!
If you're exploring options in this field in various locations, Dreambound's extensive guides are a great resource. We've got detailed insights for numerous cities. Check out some additional guides below:
Fel is a student support representative who guides enrollees to the right program and answers their queries. She's committed to helping students and takes pride in her work. In her free time, she enjoys sightseeing and hanging out with loved ones.
