Pharmacy technician career growth is expected to be at least 4% over the next decade as the population grows and people continue to need prescriptions. A pharmacy technician works under a licensed pharmacist and helps fill medications, interpret orders, answer questions, and maintain electronic records. Many people who work in the field rate their job satisfaction as high. Today, people can enter this field by taking a pharmacy tech online program. It helps to know what to look for in advance and prepare them for their career. These are seven important considerations when choosing a study program.

1. Accreditation

Before enrolling in a program, it’s important to ensure that the college is accredited and that the program meets the requirements of the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or PTCB. The organization has the authority to grant certification to candidates who qualify and pass the certification exam after completing an approved course of study. If a program does not meet the board's requirements, a student will need additional education before taking the exam.

2. Learning Structure and Flexibility

Today, most pharmacy technician courses are offered online to give students more flexibility. Online programs are ideal for people who work, have a family, or have other commitments that require a significant amount of time. There are usually weekly deadlines with an online program, and students can complete their studies when they have time throughout the day. A pharmacy tech online program may be completed on a full-time basis or a part-time basis for added flexibility. People who prefer to learn in a classroom environment and have the time to attend classes can also find on-campus programs at technical or community colleges.

3. Costs

For most students, cost is a major factor. In some states, community colleges offer low tuition to in-state residents. Many online schools have affordable tuition as well. Some schools charge based on credits, and some schools have a flat cost for a program. It is important to find out if there are technology fees and how much books cost. Students who need to use federal loans should make sure that the school uses federal loans and grants. Some schools also offer scholarships. Be sure to speak with the financial aid department before selecting a program if loans, grants or scholarships are needed.

4. Strong Curriculum

A pharmacy technician needs to have a deep understanding of pharmacology, medical terminology, communication methods, pharmacy law, and ethics. The program should focus heavily on these and related subjects and should provide the student with a robust knowledge of how a pharmacy operates. It helps to read reviews of the program online. Today, there are plenty of third-party sites where unbiased reviews are posted of online schools and specific programs. If other students feel confident after finishing the program and have the skills needed to do their job, it is a good sign of a strong curriculum.

5. Certification Preparation

Every pharmacy technician must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam from the PTCB. A candidate must have already met the board's education requirements by completing an approved study program to sit for the exam. Also, the individual must meet the PTCB's other requirements, such as passing a background check and others. Candidates must also pay the fee to take the exam, which is under $150. After passing the exam, the individual earns a CPhT title and can work as an intern. The program should be designed to fully prepare the student for the exam. Some schools post the percentage of their students who pass the exam. A higher percentage is a good sign of a program that properly prepares students for this critical exam.

6. Entrance Criteria

Some programs may have more entrance requirements than others. For example, some schools may have an application fee, and other schools may waive fees. In some programs, students may need to pass a background check or present letters of reference for acceptance. Many programs may require an entrance essay in addition to other requirements. Most pharmacy technician programs require applicants to have at least a high school diploma or a GED.

The next step toward becoming a pharmacy technician is finding the right program for your individual needs. After choosing and enrolling in a pharmacy tech online program, people take their first steps toward an exciting and rewarding career.