Are you interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, but don't want to spend years in school? Consider becoming a pharmacy technician! Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system, working under the supervision of licensed pharmacists to prepare and dispense medications, manage patient records, and provide excellent customer service. One of the top programs for pharmacy technician training is the Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program. In this article, we'll provide an in-depth overview of the program, including its curriculum, admission requirements, and career prospects.
Why Choose the Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program?
Ivy Tech Community College is one of the largest and most respected institutions of higher education in Indiana. With over 40 locations throughout the state, Ivy Tech offers a range of academic programs, including the Pharmacy Technician Program. This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and training needed to succeed as a pharmacy technician.
Curriculum Overview
The Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program is a 24-credit hour certificate program that can be completed in just two semesters. The program's curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in pharmacy technology, including:
- Pharmacy operations and management
- Pharmaceutical calculations and measurements
- Pharmacy law and ethics
- Medication safety and error prevention
- Patient assessment and communication
- Sterile compounding and IV admixture preparation
Students in the program will also complete a clinical practicum, where they will gain hands-on experience working in a pharmacy setting.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program, students must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam
- Complete a background check and provide proof of immunizations
Students who are accepted into the program will be required to attend a mandatory orientation session before the start of classes.
Career Prospects
Pharmacy technicians are in high demand, and the job outlook is excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
Graduates of the Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program can expect to find employment in a variety of settings, including:
- Retail pharmacies
- Hospital pharmacies
- Clinic pharmacies
- Long-term care facilities
- Pharmaceutical companies
Median salaries for pharmacy technicians vary depending on location and employer, but the national median salary is around $35,000 per year.
Certification and Licensure
While certification is not mandatory for pharmacy technicians in Indiana, it is highly recommended. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, which is recognized nationally.
To become certified, students must pass the PTCB exam, which is administered at the end of the program. Certification demonstrates a level of competence and expertise in pharmacy technology, and can be beneficial for career advancement.
What to Expect from the Program
The Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in pharmacy technology. Here's what you can expect from the program:
- Hands-on training: Students will complete a clinical practicum, where they will gain hands-on experience working in a pharmacy setting.
- Expert instruction: Students will be taught by experienced instructors who are experts in the field of pharmacy technology.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including a mock pharmacy lab.
- Small class sizes: Class sizes are small, which allows for personalized attention and instruction.
- Flexible scheduling: The program offers flexible scheduling, which allows students to balance work and family responsibilities.
Program Format
The Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program is offered in a hybrid format, which combines online and on-campus instruction. Students will complete online coursework, as well as attend on-campus classes and clinical practicum.
Financial Aid and Tuition
Ivy Tech offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Tuition for the Pharmacy Technician Program varies depending on residency status and other factors.
Here are the estimated tuition costs for the program:
- In-state tuition: $134 per credit hour
- Out-of-state tuition: $268 per credit hour
Conclusion
The Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program is a top-notch program that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and training needed to succeed as a pharmacy technician. With its comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and hands-on training, this program is an excellent choice for anyone interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy technology.
If you're interested in learning more about the program, we encourage you to visit the Ivy Tech website or contact the program director directly.
Gallery of Pharmacy Technician Program
FAQ
What is the duration of the Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program?
+The program can be completed in just two semesters.
What is the admission requirement for the program?
+Students must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, take the TEAS exam, and complete a background check and provide proof of immunizations.
What kind of jobs can I get with a pharmacy technician certification?
+Graduates can expect to find employment in retail pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, clinic pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and pharmaceutical companies.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Ivy Tech Pharmacy Technician Program. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about the program, please don't hesitate to contact us.