Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians assist licensed pharmacists by performing duties that do not require the professional skills and judgment of a licensed pharmacist. Program graduates will be able to collect, organize, and evaluating information to assist the pharmacist; conduct and maintain drug inventory; receive and prepare prescription to be checked by pharmacist; provide customer service; collect payment and/or initiate billing for pharmacy services and goods; maintain confidentiality of patient information; and apply knowledge of working in a sterile/laboratory environment.

Career and Technical Education Option

Basic Certificate
- Pharmacy Technician (18 hours)
Request an advisement plan for the Pharmacy Technician Program - required if you want to apply to the program

Admission and Entry Requirements

Admission to the program is by application. Admission to Richland Community College does not guarantee acceptance to the program. Application period is from January 15 - March 15 for fall admission. Late applications will be accepted and reviewed until class enrollment is filled. For complete details see the Selective Admissions Process.

High school diploma or its equivalent is required. Students must take college placement examinations and meet admission requirements. Program admission is by application. After completion of the program, students may become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) by successfully taking the national certification examination offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

Length of Study

The pharmacy technician program is a certificate program consisting of two semesters. Courses include pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, computer information systems, pharmacy technician techniques, and laboratory/work.

Employment Outlook

Employment opportunities include working in hospital pharmacy, retail pharmacy, community/home care pharmacy, education, research, and pharmaceutical industry.