Pharmacy Tech Schools
Pharmacy Tech Programs in Aurora, Illinois
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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Aurora, Illinois
Are you considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Aurora, Illinois? This guide will walk you through the steps to become a Pharmacy Technician, including the different education paths, certification requirements, and local training programs available in Aurora. A Pharmacy Technician, also known as a Pharmacy Tech, plays a crucial role in assisting pharmacists with dispensing medications and providing customer service in various healthcare settings.
About Aurora
Aurora, Illinois, known as the “City of Lights,” is the second-largest city in the state and offers a vibrant community with rich cultural heritage. Located in the Chicago metropolitan area, Aurora is home to numerous landmarks such as the Paramount Theatre and the Phillips Park Zoo. For more information about Aurora, visit the official city website.
Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Aurora, Illinois
If you’re looking to become a Pharmacy Technician in Aurora, several local schools offer comprehensive training programs. Here are three notable options:
- Waubonsee Community College
- Location: Sugar Grove, IL (approximately 10 miles from Aurora)
- Program: Waubonsee offers a Pharmacy Technician Certificate program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The program prepares students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
- Waubonsee Community College Pharmacy Technician Program
- College of DuPage
- Location: Glen Ellyn, IL (approximately 20 miles from Aurora)
- Program: The College of DuPage provides a Pharmacy Technician Training program that covers essential skills and knowledge needed for the role. The program includes externship opportunities for practical experience.
- College of DuPage Pharmacy Technician Program
- Midwestern Career College
- Location: Naperville, IL (approximately 10 miles from Aurora)
- Program: Midwestern Career College offers a Pharmacy Technician Diploma program designed to prepare students for certification and employment in various pharmacy settings.
- Midwestern Career College Pharmacy Technician Program
Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Aurora
Aurora offers a variety of employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians in both retail and healthcare settings. Here are some major employers in the area:
- Rush Copley Medical Center
- Location: Near East Side, Aurora
- Description: A leading healthcare facility providing comprehensive medical services, including a pharmacy department.
- Rush Copley Medical Center Careers
- Walgreens Pharmacy
- Location: Multiple locations across Aurora
- Description: A well-known retail pharmacy chain offering numerous job opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
- Walgreens Careers
- CVS Pharmacy
- Location: Multiple locations across Aurora
- Description: Another major retail pharmacy chain with various positions available for Pharmacy Technicians.
- CVS Health Careers
Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs
Before enrolling in a Pharmacy Technician program, you must meet certain prerequisites, which typically include:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent, or actively working towards these credentials.
- Age: Must be at least 16 years old for a Registered Pharmacy Technician and 18 years old for a Registered Certified Pharmacy Technician.
- Background Check: Must undergo a criminal background check and drug screen.
- Good Moral Character: Must demonstrate good moral character as determined by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in Illinois
In Illinois, Pharmacy Technicians must meet specific certification requirements:
- Registration: Register with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
- Certification Exam: Pass an accredited exam such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the ExCPT exam.
- Training Program: Complete a standardized nationally accredited education and training program or have 500 hours of work experience as a pharmacy technician.
- Continuing Education: Obtain 20 hours of Continuing Education (CE) during the 2-year re-certification cycle, including 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety.
Licensure Requirements
Pharmacy Technicians in Illinois must also meet licensure requirements:
- Application: Submit an online application and pay the licensing fee ($40 for 2024).
- Renewal: Renew registration every two years and complete continuing education hours.
Licensure Reciprocity
If you are a licensed Pharmacy Technician moving to Illinois, you may need to transfer your license. Illinois has specific requirements for licensure reciprocity, which can be found on the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Aurora, Illinois, is a rewarding and achievable goal. With the right training and certification, you can join the healthcare field and make a positive impact on your community. Contact a local school today to begin your journey towards becoming a Pharmacy Technician.
For more information on the job outlook for Pharmacy Technicians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.