Due to the constant emergence of new drugs, national shortage of registered pharmacists, and an aging population, the need for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow by six percent through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
With positions in demand, Penn State Hazleton, in collaboration with Condensed Curriculum International (CCI), is offering a comprehensive 50-hour program designed to prepare students to gain employment in the field, take the Pharmacy Technician Certified Board (PTCB) to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician, and/or take the National Workforce Career Association Pharmacy Technician Exam.
Students are also be eligible for an optional 80-hour clinical externship.
Career Opportunities
Pharmacy technicians dispense prescription medication to customers and health care professionals under the supervision of a registered pharmacist in settings including hospitals, home infusion pharmacies, community pharmacies and other healthcare settings. Most work full time, but many are part time.
Key Course Topics
- Pharmacy calculations
- Medical terminology specific to the pharmacy
- Skills to read and interpret prescriptions
- Review of top 200 drugs
- Skills to identify drugs by generic and brand names
- Dosage calculations, I.V. flow rates, drug compounding, and dose conversions
- Dispensing of prescriptions, inventory control, and billing and reimbursement
Dates
To be announced.
Cost
$1,499 (textbooks included)
Registration
For additional information, contact the Continuing Education office at 570-450-3110 or complete the request information form.