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Pharmacy Tech Programs in Oceanside, California

Get your Pharmacy Tech degree in Oceanside, California - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Oceanside, California

Are you interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Oceanside, California? This guide will walk you through the steps to start your career in this rewarding field. A Pharmacy Technician, also known as a Pharmacy Tech, plays a crucial role in assisting pharmacists with dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service. There are various education paths you can take, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and on-the-job training.

About Oceanside

Oceanside, California, is a beautiful coastal city located in San Diego County. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant downtown area, and historic landmarks like the Oceanside Pier and the California Surf Museum, Oceanside offers a great quality of life. For more information about the city, visit the official Oceanside website.

Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Oceanside, California

If you are looking for Pharmacy Technician programs in Oceanside, here are some local options:

  1. MiraCosta College
    • Location: Oceanside, CA
    • Program: MiraCosta College offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program that prepares students for certification and employment. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
    • Website: MiraCosta College Pharmacy Technician Program
  2. Palomar College
    • Location: San Marcos, CA (approximately 10 miles from Oceanside)
    • Program: Palomar College provides a Pharmacy Technician program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The program includes coursework and practical experience.
    • Website: Palomar College Pharmacy Technician Program
  3. UEI College
    • Location: Oceanside, CA
    • Program: UEI College offers a Pharmacy Technician diploma program that includes both theoretical and practical training. The program is designed to prepare students for certification exams.
    • Website: UEI College Pharmacy Technician Program

Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Oceanside

Oceanside has several major pharmacies and healthcare facilities where Pharmacy Technicians can find employment. Here are some notable options:

  1. Tri-City Medical Center
    • Location: Tri-City neighborhood
    • Description: Tri-City Medical Center is a full-service, acute-care hospital offering a wide range of healthcare services. Pharmacy Technicians can find various opportunities within the hospital’s pharmacy department.
    • Website: Tri-City Medical Center Careers
  2. CVS Pharmacy
    • Location: Multiple locations in Oceanside
    • Description: CVS Pharmacy is a well-known retail pharmacy chain that offers numerous employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians. CVS provides on-the-job training and career advancement options.
    • Website: CVS Pharmacy Careers
  3. Walgreens
    • Location: Multiple locations in Oceanside
    • Description: Walgreens is another major retail pharmacy chain with several locations in Oceanside. Walgreens offers a supportive work environment and opportunities for career growth.
    • Website: Walgreens Careers

Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs

To enroll in a Pharmacy Technician program in Oceanside, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC, or CHSPE).
Age: While not specifically defined by pharmacy law, most programs require you to be at least 18 years old.
Background Check: Some programs may require a background check and drug screening.
Medical Status: Proof of immunizations and a physical exam may be required.

Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California

In California, Pharmacy Technicians must meet specific certification requirements:
Education: Complete a Pharmacy Technician training program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), or obtain an associate degree in Pharmacy Technology.
Certification: Obtain national certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA) (ExCPT).
Application: Submit a full application to the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Application Fee: $195, non-refundable.
Fingerprinting: Live Scan for California residents, or fingerprint cards for out-of-state applicants.
Self-Query Report: Sealed, original report from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), dated within 60 days of application submission.

For more information, visit the California State Board of Pharmacy.

Licensure Requirements

Pharmacy Technicians in California must be licensed. The licensure process includes:
Application: Complete and submit the application form to the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Fees: Pay the application fee of $195.
Fingerprinting: Complete Live Scan fingerprinting for background checks.
Continuing Education: Complete at least one hour of participation in a cultural competency course for each renewal period, effective January 1, 2024.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years.

Licensure Reciprocity

California does not have reciprocity agreements with other states for Pharmacy Technician licensure. If you are moving to California from another state, you will need to meet California’s specific requirements and apply for licensure through the California State Board of Pharmacy.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Oceanside, California, is a rewarding choice. With the right training and certification, you can join this growing field and make a positive impact on your community. Contact a local school today to learn more about their Pharmacy Technician programs and take the first step toward your new career.