Online Pharmacy Degree
Whether you’re in need of a career path or are looking for a change of direction, there are several reasons why you should consider earning a pharmacy degree. And thanks to the incredible abilities of the internet, you can now get it online.
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Before delving into the specifics of the online degree programs, it’s important to understand the role of a pharmacy technician and why it’s a good idea to pursue a degree in this particular field. Firstly, Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by assisting pharmacists in dispensing prescription medications to patients. They work in various settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities. Their responsibilities include verifying prescription information, managing inventory, interacting with patients, and ensuring the accuracy of medication dispensing. Secondly, as the demand for pharmacy technicians continues to rise, the availability of online pharmacy technician degree programs provides aspiring individuals with the flexibility to pursue their education without compromising their existing responsibilities.
In this article, we will explore the top seven online pharmacy technician degree programs, providing a comprehensive overview of each program, including features, suitability and length of study. Additionally, we will discuss what to look for when choosing a program to ensure a well-informed decision.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College - Pharmacy Technology Program
Minnesota State Community and Technical College offers a comprehensive online 60-credit Associate Degree and a 36-credit Diploma course in Pharmacy Technology. The program is ASHP accredited and provides real-time lab experiences in a state-of-the-art facility.
This course is highly suitable for individuals seeking in-depth knowledge and skills in pharmacy technology, with a focus on real-world lab experiences. Total length of study varies based on the chosen program (Associate Degree or Diploma).
Penn Foster Career School - Pharmacy Technician Online Certificate Program
With a rich history in distance education, Penn Foster offers a comprehensive online Pharmacy Technician Certificate program. The program includes hands-on learning experiences through internships at prominent pharmacy chains.
This is a suitable option for individuals looking for a flexible and supportive learning environment with personalized coaching and career services. The program can usually be completed in a short timeframe, plus it offers mobile-friendly courses.
San Francisco State University - Online Pharmacy Technology Course
San Francisco State University offers a self-paced online course in pharmacy technology, providing interactive learning modules and 24/7 instructor support. The program also includes an 80-hour clinical externship at a healthcare provider.
Go for this degree course if you are seeking a flexible, interactive online learning experience with a focus on real-life clinical exposure. Length of study is approximately six months, with convenient self-paced learning options to reduce student stress.
Vincennes University - Online Certificate and Associate Degree in Pharmacy Technology
Vincennes University provides both a Certificate and an Associate Degree program in pharmacy technology in an online mode of study. Both programs are ASHP accredited and prepare graduates for the PTCB certification exam.
Overall, this is an excellent choice for individuals interested in pursuing a comprehensive pharmacy technician education, with a primary focus on medication preparation and dosage calculations. The Certificate program takes one year to complete, while the Associate Degree program spans two years.
University of Alaska Anchorage - Occupational Endorsement Certificate in Pharmacy Technology
If you’re looking to get a degree as quickly as possible, check out The University of Alaska Anchorage. They offer a 16-credit occupational endorsement certificate in pharmacy technology, which is available in an online mode. The program emphasizes core subjects such as Introduction to Pharmacy and Pharmacology.
This is the best choice for individuals seeking a shorter, more focused program in pharmacy technology with an emphasis on core pharmacy subjects. Believe it or not, this program can be completed in just two semesters, providing a quick pathway to acquiring essential pharmacy knowledge and skills.
Ashworth College - Pharmacy Technician Program
Ashworth College, a pioneer in distance education, offers an affordable pharmacy technician program designed to prepare graduates for the PTCB and NHA certification exams. The program also includes hands-on learning experiences through externships at CVS and Walgreens.
If you’re seeking a flexible, self-paced online program with a focus on job readiness and certification preparation, then this is the program for you. The program can usually be completed within an open timeframe, providing flexibility for students.
Martinsburg College - Online Pharmacy Technician Program
Martinsburg College provides an online pharmacy technician program with a history of offering distance learning programs. The program focuses on preparing students for a successful career as pharmacy technicians, including certification exam preparation.
This is a great choice for those seeking a comprehensive online program, specifically with a focus on job readiness and certification preparation. Better yet, the program offers a self-paced learning approach, allowing students to progress at their own speed.
Choosing the Right Program
When considering an online pharmacy technician degree program, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure the best fit for your educational and career goals:
1. Accreditation: Look for programs that are accredited by recognized organizations, such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
2. Program Length: Consider the duration of the program and whether it aligns with your schedule and timeline for completing the degree.
3. Cost: Evaluate the overall cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and any additional expenses, to ensure it fits within your budget.
4. Support Services: Assess the availability of student support services, such as career guidance, resume writing assistance, and job placement support.
5. Flexibility: Consider the flexibility of the program, including self-paced learning options, virtual discussions, and hands-on training opportunities.
6. Certification Preparation: Lastly, check that the program adequately prepares students for certification exams, such as the PTCB exam, which is highly valued by employers.
