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Pharmacy Tech Programs in San Francisco, California

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

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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in San Francisco, California

Are you considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in San Francisco, California? This guide will walk you through the steps to become a Pharmacy Tech, including the different education paths, training programs, and certification requirements. Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in healthcare, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing excellent customer service. Let’s explore how you can start your journey in this rewarding field.

About San Francisco

San Francisco, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and vibrant cultural scene, is a bustling city with a rich history. Nestled in Northern California, San Francisco offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, from the historic Mission District to the upscale Pacific Heights. For more information about the city, visit the official San Francisco website.

Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in San Francisco, California

San Francisco offers several reputable Pharmacy Technician programs to help you get started in your career. Here are three local schools offering Pharmacy Tech programs:

  1. City College of San Francisco (CCSF)
    • Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate
    • Description: CCSF offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in various pharmacy settings.
    • Location: Ocean Avenue Campus, Balboa Park
    • More Information: CCSF Pharmacy Technician Program
  2. American Career College (ACC)
    • Program: Pharmacy Technician Diploma
    • Description: ACC provides a robust Pharmacy Technician program that covers essential skills and knowledge required for the role. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical components.
    • Location: ACC Campus, South of Market (SoMa)
    • More Information: ACC Pharmacy Technician Program
  3. San Francisco State University (SFSU)
    • Program: Pharmacy Technician Training Program
    • Description: SFSU offers a training program designed to prepare students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). The program includes 240 hours of instruction and practical experience.
    • Location: Main Campus, Lake Merced
    • More Information: SFSU Pharmacy Technician Program

Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to numerous pharmacies and healthcare facilities where Pharmacy Technicians can find employment. Here are some major employers:

  1. UCSF Medical Center
    • Description: UCSF Medical Center is a leading hospital known for its cutting-edge research and patient care. It offers various employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Location: Parnassus Heights
    • More Information: UCSF Medical Center Careers
  2. Walgreens Pharmacy
    • Description: Walgreens is a nationwide pharmacy chain with multiple locations in San Francisco. They frequently hire Pharmacy Technicians to assist with daily operations.
    • Location: Multiple locations, including Union Square and the Financial District
    • More Information: Walgreens Careers
  3. Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center
    • Description: Kaiser Permanente is a well-known healthcare provider offering comprehensive services. They employ Pharmacy Technicians in various capacities.
    • Location: Geary Boulevard, Inner Richmond
    • More Information: Kaiser Permanente Careers

Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs

To enroll in a Pharmacy Technician program in San Francisco, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– High school diploma or GED equivalent
– Minimum age of 18 years
– Completion of an accredited pharmacy technician program or current PTCB or ExCPT certification
– Background check and possibly a drug screening
– Basic math and English proficiency

Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California

In California, Pharmacy Technicians must meet specific certification requirements:
Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old
Education Requirement: High school diploma or GED equivalent and completion of an accredited pharmacy technician program or current PTCB or ExCPT certification
Training Program Requirements: The program must be accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and include at least 240 hours of instruction
Licensing Requirements: Must obtain a pharmacy technician license from the California State Board of Pharmacy, with an application fee of $195. A sealed, original Self-Query Report from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) and a criminal background check via Live Scan or fingerprint cards are also required.

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

Licensure Requirements

Pharmacy Technicians in California must obtain a license from the California State Board of Pharmacy. The application process includes:
– Completing an accredited pharmacy technician program
– Submitting an application with a $195 fee
– Providing a Self-Query Report from the NPDB
– Undergoing a criminal background check

Licensure Reciprocity

If you are a licensed Pharmacy Technician in another state and wish to transfer your license to California, you will need to meet California’s specific requirements. This may include additional coursework or exams. For more information, contact the California State Board of Pharmacy.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in San Francisco is a rewarding decision. With the right training and certification, you can join a vital sector of the healthcare industry. Contact a local school today to learn more about their Pharmacy Technician programs and take the first step towards your new career.