How to Become a Pharmacy Technician
Overview & Salaries
How Much Does a Pharmacy Technician Make?
$29,320 (national median salary)
Expected growth from 2012-2020:
+70,700
Specialization Options:
Analyst, compliance and medical dispenser.
Recommended Degree:
The right degree for you depends on the industry and company you apply for. Those looking for an entry positions need a high school diploma and on the job training. Most states also require that you pass an exam. If you are looking to get into a competitive or advance position, then a certificate or associates degree a can help you stand out in the hiring process. Learn more by clicking our “Education Required” tab up top.
(all information above provided by the 2012 BLS Pharmacy Technician page)
Discover the Best Places to Become a Pharmacy Technician
For pharmacy technicians, California offers practitioners the highest annual mean salary, coming in at $39,570, and employing 2.16 of those in the field per thousand jobs available. Texas also has high employment numbers for pharmacy technicians, with nearly 30,000 positions currently being filled by those in the career.
Employment and Salary Information by State for Pharmacy Technicians
Use our interactive map below to find out which areas of the United States are currently experiencing the greatest amount of growth and job availability for graduates looking for a career in Pharmacy Technician. All data is taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a highly credible government agency.
Employment and Information Data for Pharmacy Technician
Why Become a Pharmacy Technician?
As the healthcare system in the United States continues to expand, the need for pharmacy technicians will continue to grow. The pharmacy profession is evolving to promote the proper use of medication, and technicians are helping carry the increased workload. As a growing industry and an expanding career path, becoming a pharmacy technician is a reliable career with a promising future. If you have an eye for detail and a passion for helping people remain healthy, becoming a pharmacy technician is an excellent opportunity to entering the healthcare industry.
Recommended Courses to Help You Become a Pharmacy Technician
- Pharmacy Fundamentals
- Medical Terminology
- Pharmacy Practice
- Pharmaceutical Calculations
- Principles of Sterile Medication Preparation
- Pharmacology
- Pharmaceutical Compounding and Dispensing
- Anatomy and Physiology
Degrees for Pharmacy Technician Careers
Pharmacy technician degrees are typically not available at the Bachelor’s Degree level. However, there are several options in all 50 states at the AAS and Certificate Program range.
Pharmacy Technician Associate of Applied Science
An Associate of Applied Science is typically a two year program which prepares students for entry level positions in the pharmacy industry. A student who graduates with an AAS in pharmacy tech will be prepared to take on the rigorous daily tasks of a professional pharmacy technician.
Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
A Certified Medical Certificate typically takes between 9 to 12 months to complete and covers basic knowledge of the field, including reading prescriptions, order entry, IV medication prep, etc. A certificate in pharmacy tech will give you an edge to launching a career in the pharmacy industry.
