Pharmacy Tech Schools
Pharmacy Tech Programs in San Jose, California
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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in San Jose, California
Are you considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in San Jose, California? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to become a Pharmacy Tech, including the education paths available, certification requirements, and local training programs. Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in healthcare, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing customer service. Let’s explore how you can start your journey in this rewarding field.
About San Jose
San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is known for its innovation, cultural diversity, and vibrant neighborhoods. Home to landmarks like the Winchester Mystery House and the Tech Interactive Museum, San Jose offers a dynamic environment for aspiring Pharmacy Technicians. For more information about the city, visit the official San Jose website.
Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in San Jose, California
San Jose offers several reputable Pharmacy Technician programs to help you get started on your career path. Here are three local schools offering Pharmacy Tech programs:
- San Jose City College
- Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
- Description: San Jose City College offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The program prepares students for certification and entry-level positions in various pharmacy settings.
- Location: Downtown San Jose
- Program Link
- Evergreen Valley College
- Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
- Description: Evergreen Valley College provides a robust Pharmacy Technician program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The curriculum covers essential skills and knowledge required for the profession.
- Location: Evergreen neighborhood
- Program Link
- Carrington College
- Program: Pharmacy Technology Program
- Description: Carrington College offers an Associate’s Degree in Pharmacy Technology, combining theoretical education with practical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for national certification exams.
- Location: North San Jose
- Program Link
Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in San Jose
San Jose has a variety of employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians. Here are some major pharmacies and healthcare facilities in the area:
- Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center
- Description: A leading healthcare provider in the region, offering numerous job opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
- Location: Blossom Hill neighborhood
- Employment Opportunities
- El Camino Health
- Description: El Camino Health is a comprehensive healthcare system with multiple facilities in the San Jose area, providing various roles for Pharmacy Technicians.
- Location: Mountain View (near San Jose)
- Employment Opportunities
- CVS Pharmacy
- Description: With multiple locations throughout San Jose, CVS Pharmacy offers numerous positions for Pharmacy Technicians, providing opportunities for growth and development.
- Location: Various neighborhoods
- Employment Opportunities
Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs
To enroll in a Pharmacy Technician program in San Jose, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC, or CHSPE).
– Minimum Age: At least 18 years old.
– Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams.
– Background Checks: A background check may be required.
– Medical Status: Proof of immunizations and health screenings may be necessary.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California
In California, Pharmacy Technicians must meet specific certification requirements:
– Educational Requirements: Complete one of the following:
– An Associate’s Degree in Pharmacy Technology.
– Graduation from an ACPE-accredited school of pharmacy.
– Completion of a state-approved or ASHP-accredited training program.
– National certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
– Pharmacy technician training within a branch of the federal armed services.
– Certification Options:
– PTCB Certification: Complete a PTCB-recognized training program or gain at least 500 hours of practical experience, and pass the PTCB exam.
– ExCPT Certification: Enroll in a formal pharmacy technician training program or obtain 1 year of work experience with at least 1200 hours of supervised pharmacy-related work, and pass the ExCPT exam.
– Background Check: Complete a Live Scan for fingerprinting if you are a California resident, or submit two rolled fingerprint cards if you reside outside of California.
– Renewal: Renew your license every two years and complete at least one hour of participation in a cultural competency course for each renewal period starting January 1, 2024.
For more information, visit the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Licensure Requirements
To become a licensed Pharmacy Technician in California, you must:
– Application: Submit a completed application to the California State Board of Pharmacy.
– Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable application fee of $195.
– Documentation: Provide documentation of your high school transcript or equivalent, and proof of completing the required pharmacy technician education/training.
– Passport-Style Photo: Include a passport-style photo taken within 60 days of filing your application.
– Self-Query Report: Submit a sealed, original Self-Query Report from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) dated within 60 days of your application submission.
Licensure Reciprocity
California does not have formal reciprocity agreements for Pharmacy Technician licenses from other states. However, if you are already certified by the PTCB or NHA, you may be eligible to apply for licensure in California by meeting the state’s specific requirements.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in San Jose, California, is a rewarding and achievable goal. With the right training and certification, you can join the ranks of healthcare professionals making a difference in their communities. Contact a local school today to learn more about their Pharmacy Technician programs and take the first step toward your new career.