Pharmacy Technician prepares students for entry-level employment as pharmacy technicians. The curriculum combines didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory training, and supervised lab practice to support both educational and career goals. Pharmacy technicians are skilled technical health workers who prepare medications under the direction of a licensed pharmacist and perform a variety of pharmacy-related duties in retail, hospital, and other healthcare settings.
Typical responsibilities may include measuring, mixing, counting, labeling, and recording dosages according to prescription orders; receiving and verifying prescription and refill requests; pre-packing bulk medications; filling bottles with prescribed drugs; typing and affixing prescription labels; and assisting customers by answering basic questions, locating products, or referring them to the pharmacist for more complex medication information. Students will also gain experience in maintaining patient profiles, processing insurance claims, taking inventory, and stocking medications.
Successful completion of the program qualifies students to apply for licensure with the California State Board of Pharmacy and equips them with the knowledge and experience needed to pursue entry-level positions in the field. Clinical externship may require updated vaccinations including flu and covid vaccines. A background check may be required for participation at select clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination for Pharmacy Technicians.
Please note: The California State Board of Pharmacy may deny licensure to individuals with convictions.
Program Learning Outcomes
Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) are statements of the kind of learning a program hopes a student will achieve. The PLOs describe the knowledge, skills, problem-solving, communication, and values that apply to all certificates and/or degrees within that program.
Upon completion of this program, students should be able to:
- Solve sample pharmaceutical dosing and calculation questions.
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of federal and state laws and ethical leadership required for the healthcare professional.