Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system, working closely with pharmacists to ensure the safe and effective distribution of medications. The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) offers a Pharmacy Technician Program that prepares students for this rewarding career. In this article, we will provide an overview of the program and its requirements.
Why Become a Pharmacy Technician?
Pharmacy technicians are in high demand, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 7% growth in employment opportunities through 2028. This growth is driven by the increasing need for healthcare services, particularly among the aging population. As a pharmacy technician, you will have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. The job is not only rewarding but also offers competitive salaries and benefits.
UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program Overview
The UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program is a 12-month certificate program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a pharmacy technician. The program is designed to meet the requirements of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy and is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).
The program consists of 34 credits, including both classroom and clinical training. Students will learn about pharmacology, pharmacy law, and pharmacy operations, as well as develop the skills necessary to work effectively in a pharmacy setting. The program also includes a clinical externship, which provides students with hands-on experience in a real-world pharmacy setting.
Program Requirements
To be eligible for the UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Students must be at least 18 years old to apply.
- Education: Students must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Background Check: Students must undergo a background check and provide documentation of a clear background check.
- Immunizations: Students must provide documentation of up-to-date immunizations, including hepatitis B, MMR, and varicella.
- Health Insurance: Students must have health insurance that covers them for the duration of the program.
- Prerequisites: Students must complete the following prerequisites before starting the program:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Math
- English
Curriculum
The UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program curriculum includes the following courses:
- Pharmacology: Students will learn about the different types of medications, including their uses, side effects, and interactions.
- Pharmacy Law: Students will learn about the laws and regulations that govern pharmacy practice.
- Pharmacy Operations: Students will learn about the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy, including dispensing medications and managing inventory.
- Clinical Externship: Students will participate in a clinical externship, which provides hands-on experience in a real-world pharmacy setting.
- Pharmacy Technician Skills: Students will develop the skills necessary to work effectively in a pharmacy setting, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Certification
Upon completion of the program, students will be eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. The PTCB exam is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates a pharmacy technician's knowledge and skills.
Career Opportunities
As a pharmacy technician, you will have a variety of career opportunities. Some of the most common career paths include:
- Retail Pharmacy: Working in a retail pharmacy, such as CVS or Walgreens.
- Hospital Pharmacy: Working in a hospital pharmacy, where you will be responsible for preparing and dispensing medications for patients.
- Clinical Pharmacy: Working in a clinical pharmacy, where you will be responsible for monitoring patient medications and providing education to patients.
- Pharmacy Management: Working in pharmacy management, where you will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy.
Conclusion
The UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program is a great opportunity for individuals who are interested in a career in pharmacy. The program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a pharmacy technician, as well as the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a real-world pharmacy setting. If you are interested in a rewarding career in pharmacy, we encourage you to apply to the UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program.
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FAQ Section
What is the length of the UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program?
+The UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program is a 12-month certificate program.
What are the prerequisites for the UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program?
+Students must complete the following prerequisites before starting the program: biology, chemistry, math, and English.
Is the UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program accredited?
+Yes, the UTRGV Pharmacy Technician Program is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).