In the heart of the southern United States, Mississippi is home to a thriving healthcare industry, with a growing demand for skilled pharmacy technicians. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, you'll want to explore the best pharmacy tech programs in Mississippi. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top programs in the state, including their curriculum, accreditation, and job placement rates.
Why Become a Pharmacy Technician?
Before we dive into the best programs, let's explore why becoming a pharmacy technician is a great career choice. Pharmacy technicians, also known as pharmacy techs, play a vital role in healthcare by assisting licensed pharmacists with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service. With the demand for healthcare services on the rise, pharmacy technicians are in high demand, and the job outlook is promising.
What to Look for in a Pharmacy Tech Program
When searching for a pharmacy tech program, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key things to look for:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Accreditation Commission for Health Education (ACHE).
- Curriculum: A comprehensive curriculum should include coursework in pharmacy law, pharmacology, and pharmacy operations, as well as clinical training.
- Job placement rates: Research the program's job placement rates to ensure graduates are successful in finding employment.
- Certification: Consider programs that prepare students for certification exams, such as the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam.
5 Best Pharmacy Tech Programs in Mississippi
After researching the top programs in Mississippi, here are our top picks:
1. University of Mississippi Medical Center (Jackson, MS)
The University of Mississippi Medical Center offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the ASHP. The program includes coursework in pharmacy law, pharmacology, and pharmacy operations, as well as clinical training in a variety of settings.
- Program length: 12 months
- Accreditation: ASHP
- Job placement rate: 90%
2. Hinds Community College (Raymond, MS)
Hinds Community College offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the ACHE. The program includes coursework in pharmacy law, pharmacology, and pharmacy operations, as well as clinical training.
- Program length: 12 months
- Accreditation: ACHE
- Job placement rate: 85%
3. Meridian Community College (Meridian, MS)
Meridian Community College offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the ASHP. The program includes coursework in pharmacy law, pharmacology, and pharmacy operations, as well as clinical training.
- Program length: 12 months
- Accreditation: ASHP
- Job placement rate: 80%
4. Itawamba Community College (Fulton, MS)
Itawamba Community College offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the ACHE. The program includes coursework in pharmacy law, pharmacology, and pharmacy operations, as well as clinical training.
- Program length: 12 months
- Accreditation: ACHE
- Job placement rate: 75%
5. Holmes Community College ( Goodman, MS)
Holmes Community College offers a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the ASHP. The program includes coursework in pharmacy law, pharmacology, and pharmacy operations, as well as clinical training.
- Program length: 12 months
- Accreditation: ASHP
- Job placement rate: 70%
Conclusion
If you're interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, Mississippi offers several excellent programs to choose from. By considering factors such as accreditation, curriculum, and job placement rates, you can make an informed decision about which program is right for you. We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the best pharmacy tech programs in Mississippi.
Gallery of Pharmacy Tech Programs in Mississippi
FAQ
What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Mississippi?
+The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Mississippi is promising, with a projected growth rate of 10% from 2020 to 2030.
How long does it take to complete a pharmacy technician program in Mississippi?
+Pharmacy technician programs in Mississippi typically take 12 months to complete.
What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in Mississippi?
+The average salary for pharmacy technicians in Mississippi is around $34,000 per year.