What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who assists Pharmacists in various tasks, such as preparing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service. Pharmacy Technicians work under the supervision of licensed Pharmacists and play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of pharmaceutical care.

Training Requirements

To become a Pharmacy Technician in North Carolina, you'll need to complete a Pharmacy Technician training program. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The training covers topics such as pharmacology, medication dispensing, record-keeping, and customer service.

Fastest Path to Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Charlotte

In Charlotte, you can become a Pharmacy Technician in as little as a few months. Many local colleges and technical schools offer Pharmacy Technician programs that can be completed in as little as 12 to 16 weeks. These accelerated programs provide the necessary training and prepare you to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).

Pharmacy Technician Classes in Charlotte

Here are some examples of Pharmacy Technician classes available in Charlotte:

Central Piedmont Community College:

• Program Length: 16 weeks
• Cost: Approximately $2,500
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: This program provides comprehensive training in pharmacy operations, medication preparation, and patient communication. Students gain hands-on experience in a simulated pharmacy environment.

Carolinas College of Health Sciences:

• Program Length: 12 weeks
• Cost: Approximately $3,000
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, background check, and drug screening
• Overview: This accelerated program focuses on the practical skills needed to work as a Pharmacy Technician, including medication safety, inventory management, and customer service.

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College:

• Program Length: 16 weeks
• Cost: Approximately $2,800
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, background check, and drug screening
• Overview: This comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program combines classroom instruction with clinical rotations in local pharmacies, providing students with a well-rounded education.

Exploring a Career as a Pharmacy Technician Outside Charlotte

For anyone looking to become a Pharmacy Technician but is in a different state, your opportunity to work as a Pharmacy Technician might be found in Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Little Rock, Salt Lake City, St. Louis. Should these not be viable options, Dreambound eases the process of discovering and comparing Pharmacy Technician classes with a zip code-based search. With the drive to succeed and the support of resources like Dreambound, anyone can forge a successful path in healthcare, no matter where they are.

Online and Free Options

In addition to the in-person Pharmacy Technician classes in Charlotte, there are also online options available for those who prefer a more flexible learning environment. Several online programs, such as those offered by Penn Foster Career School and Ashworth College, allow students to complete their training at their own pace.

For individuals looking for free or low-cost Pharmacy Technician training, the Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont offers a Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship Program. This program provides tuition-free training and on-the-job experience, making it an excellent option for those with financial constraints.

Certification Process

After completing a Pharmacy Technician training program, the next step is to obtain certification. In North Carolina, Pharmacy Technicians are required to pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) to become certified. Once certified, Pharmacy Technicians must maintain their certification by completing continuing education requirements and renewing their license every two years.

If you are a high school student wanting to enter the medical field, you can begin your journey to becoming a pharmacy technician in high school! Some steps you can take are taking extracurricular activities or volunteering in healthcare facilities, which are related to the tasks of being a pharmacy technician.

Job Environment in Charlotte

Charlotte is a thriving city with a growing healthcare industry, making it an excellent location for Pharmacy Technicians. Some of the potential employers for Pharmacy Technicians in Charlotte include:

• Atrium Health
• Novant Health
• Walgreens
• CVS Pharmacy
• Rite Aid
• Local independent pharmacies

Pharmacy Technicians in Charlotte can expect to work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, retail pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and specialty pharmacies. The job environment is fast-paced and requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a commitment to patient safety.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Charlotte is a great career choice for those interested in the healthcare field. With several Pharmacy Technician classes near you, accelerated training options, and a growing job market, you can quickly become a valuable member of the healthcare team. Whether you choose an in-person or online program, or even a free apprenticeship, there are plenty of opportunities to get started on your Pharmacy Technician journey in the Charlotte area.

Dreambound offers a window into various career paths, so if you're considering a shift in your career, browse through these articles:

• Psychiatric Technician Training in Charlotte
• Medical Transcriptionist Training in Charlotte
• Phlebotomy Training in Charlotte