Help registered pharmacists prepare medications.
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.
Getting Started
What are my degree, diploma, and certificate options?
How Do I Pay For This?
How Do I Apply?
The Pharmacy Technology program enrolls a new class each Fall and Spring semester.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
Program Recognition
The Somerset Community College Pharmacy Technology program is recognized as an approved
education program by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
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.
Length of Program
You can earn the Advanced Pharmacy Technician diploma in three semesters and the Entry Level Pharmacy Technician certificate in 16 weeks.
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.
