How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in High School? (2024)
Becoming a pharmacy technician can be a great career option for high school students who are interested in the healthcare field. Not only does it offer a rewarding and stable pharmacy technician job, but it also provides a valuable learning experience. If you're wondering how to become a pharmacy technician in high school, this blog post will provide you with all the information you need to get started.
Key Points
- To become a pharmacy technician, a high school diploma or equivalent is generally required, and certification may be needed depending on state regulations.
- Pharmacy technician training typically takes 6 to 12 months.
- The average pharmacy technician salary in the United States is $40,300 per year.
How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?
Becoming a pharmacy technician typically takes about 6 to 12 months, which includes completing a pharmacy technician training program, gaining hands-on experience, and passing the certification exam. This timeframe can vary based on the program's structure and whether you are studying full-time or part-time.
How much does a pharmacy technician make?
As of May 2023, the average annual salary for a pharmacy technician is $40,300, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific type of pharmacy setting.
What is the youngest age to be a pharmacy tech?
The minimum age to become a pharmacy technician varies by state, but generally, you must be at least 16 years old. Some states have a higher minimum age requirement, so it's important to check local regulations for specific age requirements.
What is the highest level of pharmacy technician?
The highest level of pharmacy technician typically involves advanced roles such as a Pharmacy Technician Supervisor or a Specialty Pharmacy Technician, which require additional training and experience. These roles involve overseeing other technicians or working in specialized areas of pharmacy practice.
What is the best online school for pharmacy technicians?
The best online school for pharmacy technicians depends on individual needs and preferences, but reputable options include schools that are accredited and offer comprehensive training programs.
Where is the highest paid pharmacy technician?
As of May 2023, the highest-paid pharmacy technicians are located in California, with an average annual salary of $55,710, reflecting the state's higher cost of living and demand for skilled professionals.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a pharmacy technician in high school can be a great way to kickstart your career in the healthcare industry. It offers valuable experience, job stability, and opportunities for growth. By understanding the requirements, developing essential skills, and utilizing resources like Dreambound to find classes or training programs, you can set yourself up for a successful career as a pharmacy technician.
Dreambound's extensive guides dig into the specific requirements and challenges that are different for each state in the US. Check out some of our other guides below:
Exploring diverse professional options? Dreambound has comprehensive guides to assist you in making well-informed decisions. Take a look at these resources:
Joanna Paragas is part of the Growth team at Dreambound. Her primary role involves creating various automation to streamline workflows and make tasks more efficient for the entire team. Beyond her professional endeavors, Joanna enjoys spending her free time playing with her dogs and enhancing her knowledge by enrolling in online courses.
