Many pharmacy technicians acquire skills through on-the-job training. However, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), formal education from either traditional or online pharmacy technician schools is becoming more and more appreciated by employers. This article explores the details of the three main elements of an associate degree: pharmacy tech classes, laboratory work and internship. An associate degree program normally takes up to two years to complete.

Pharmacy Tech Training Curriculum

Pharmacy tech classes are a major part of the training. Students follow a set curriculum determined by the school and take courses in multiple areas, including “medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy record keeping, pharmaceutical techniques, and pharmacy law and ethics.” Additionally, students are required to complete several communication classes. The associate degree curriculum at Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) in Massachusetts, for example, includes two college writing courses. Communication is emphasized because pharmacy technicians interact on a daily basis with pharmacists and customers. The VA notes that employers favor workers with experience in customer service.