What is Pharmacy Technology?
This program prepares students with the skills and educational background needed to successfully pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). The pharmacy technician works under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist and assists in routine functions of the pharmacy ranging from ordering, stocking, inventorying, repackaging, compounding, and prescription preparation. Pharmacy technicians may be employed at various settings (e.g., hospitals, chain pharmacies, independent pharmacies, home health pharmacies, managed-care pharmacy services, and mail-order pharmacies).
The essential elements of the program include the history of pharmacy, pharmacy law, medical terminology, drug classification and prescription preparation. Laboratory experience and two externships under the supervision of licensed pharmacists are required components of the program. Effective January 1, 2020 completion of a PTCB-recognized education/training program or equivalent work experience will be required of new CPhT applicants.
What are my career choices?
Pharmacy Technicians have employment opportunities in community, home health, nuclear and hospital pharmacies.
What are my degree, diploma, or certificate options?
Advising Plans
Certificate
Location: Laurel North
| Class | Credit hours |
|---|---|
| COM 181 or COM 252 - Oral Communications | 3 |
| AHS 115, CLA 131, or MIT 103 - Medical Terminology | 3 |
| CIT 105 or Digital Literacy course | 0-3 |
| PHA 110 - Pharmacy Procedures and Skills | 6 |
| PHA 146 - Pharmaceutical Calculations | 3 |
| PHA 136 - Pharmacology I | 3 |
| PHA 150 - Pharmacy Experience I | 3 |
| Total | 21-24 |
*Certificate not accredited at this time
Diploma
| Class | Credit hours |
|---|---|
| COM 181 OR COM 252 - Oral Communications | 3 |
| AHS 115 OR CLA 131 OR MIT 103 - Medical Terminology | 3 |
| CIT 105 - Computer Literacy or Introduction to Computers | 0-3 |
| BIO 135 Anatomy & Physiology OR BIO 137 and BIO 139 | 4-8 |
| CPR 100 or equivalent | 0-1 |
| FYE 100 OR FYE 105 *not all students will need | 0-3 |
| Total | 10-21 |
| Class | Credit hours |
|---|---|
| PHA 110 - Pharmacy Procedures and Skills | 6 |
| PHA 146 - Pharmaceutical Calculations | 3 |
| PHA 136 - Pharmacology I | 3 |
| PHA 150 - Pharmacy Experience I | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
| Class | Credit hours |
|---|---|
| PHA 200 - Admixtures for IV Therapy | 3 |
| PHA 205 - Admixtures Preparations | 1 |
| PHA 236 - Pharmacology II | 3 |
| PHA 240 - Pharmacy Technician Career Planning | 3 |
| Total | 10 |
| Class | Credit hours |
|---|---|
| PHA 251 - Pharmacy Experience II | 3 |
| Total | 3 |
Total credit hours for diploma: 38-49
Admissions Process
The Pharmacy Technology program enrolls a new class each Fall and Spring semester.
View the Pre-Admission Conference below.
Pre-Admission Conference & Application
Additional Information
Progression in the Pharmacy Technician program is contingent upon achievement of a grade of “C” or above in each required course and maintenance of a 2.0 cumulative grade-point average or above (on a 4.0 scale).
Upon completion of the program, the individual can take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). When the student passes the exam, they are then granted the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). National certification exams are given by the “Pharmacy Technician Certification Board” (www.PTCB.org).
Reminder for all prospective students:
Illicit drug use, positive criminal background checks, and questionable/problematic
immunization status may prevent future employment as a pharmacy technician, and that
externship sites, employers, and State Boards of Pharmacy have regulations about drug
use and criminal backgrounds.
Program Requirements
- Complete online Pre-Admission Conference OR attend an in-person information session.
- Submit an application for selective admissions online or return a paper application to the program coordinator.
- Letter of intent
- Completion of MATH 65 or higher OR ACT MATH 16 or higher, or equivalent
College Requirements
- Application for admission to SCC.
- Official high school transcript or a passing GED official score report
- Transcripts of all post-secondary education or training
- Results of the ACT
Pharmacy Software
PioneerRx Pharmacy Software
Our pharmacy program utilizes the industry leading pharmacy software, PioneerRx. PioneerRx enhances the learning experience for our students by allowing them to simulate the functions and workflow processes associated in day to day pharmacy operations. To learn more about PioneerRx https://www.pioneerrx.com/.
Program Recognition
The Somerset Community College Pharmacy Technology program is recognized as an approved education program by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Length of Program
You can earn the Advanced Pharmacy Technician diploma in three semesters and the Entry Level Pharmacy Technician certificate in two semesters. You can additionally earn an associate in applied science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
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