Fall 2012 Pharmacy Technician

Course Description: This 60 hour career training program instructs students in the preparation of medications under the direction of a pharmacist. Students will learn to measure, mix, count, label, and record amounts and dosages of medications using generic and brand names. Additionally, students will learn medical terminology specific to the pharmacy, how to read and interpret prescriptions, define drugs by generic and brand names, calculate dosage and I.V. flow rates, drug compounding and dose conversion. Procedures regarding prescriptions, inventory control, billing, and insurance reimbursement will also be discussed.

A pharmacy technician receives written prescription or refill requests and verifies that information is complete and accurate; maintains proper storage and security for drugs; answers telephones and responds to customer questions and requests; fills bottles with prescribed medications; types and affixes labels; assists customers; prices and files prescriptions that have been filled; cleans and helps to maintain equipment and work areas; and sterilizes glassware according to prescribed methods.

This program involves a combination of didactic lecture, online lessons, and laboratory practice. This course prepares students to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) national certification exam.

Employment Outlook: Pharmacy Technicians work in a variety of environments including hospitals, pharmacies, and long term care facilities. Job prospects for Pharmacy Technicians are expected to be excellent due to the increasing needs of an aging population. The average hourly wage in Connecticut for a Pharmacy Technician is $15.38/hour. See the Bureau of Labor Statistics Fact Sheet

Course Requirements:Students convicted of a felony may not be eligible for certification as a Pharmacy Technician. Students must maintain a score of 75% or higher in this course.

Course Fee: $700—Includes BLS (CPR/AED) for Healthcare Providers— certification, textbook, and all course materials.

Course fees do not include the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) National Certification Testing fees (About $129).