Pharmacy Tech Schools
Pharmacy Tech Programs in New Hampshire
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in New Hampshire
Are you considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in New Hampshire? This guide will walk you through the steps to earn your Pharmacy Technician certification in the Granite State. Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in healthcare, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing excellent customer service. There are different paths to becoming a Pharmacy Tech, including formal education programs and on-the-job training.
Why Become a Pharmacy Tech in New Hampshire
New Hampshire, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities, offers a promising career outlook for Pharmacy Technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Pharmacy Technicians in New Hampshire is competitive, with projected job growth expected to rise in the coming years. The state’s commitment to healthcare excellence makes it an ideal place to start your career.
Prerequisites for Pharmacy Tech Programs
To enroll in a Pharmacy Tech program in New Hampshire, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Age Requirement: Be at least 16 years old for Registered Pharmacy Technicians and 18 years old for Certified Pharmacy Technicians.
- Education: Have a high school diploma or equivalent, or be working towards achieving one.
- Background Check: Not have been convicted of a drug-related felony.
- Other Requirements: Complete any required entrance exams, background checks, or medical status verifications.
Typical Program Curriculum
Pharmacy Tech programs in New Hampshire generally include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:
- Pharmacology: Understanding medications and their effects.
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Learning about regulations and ethical considerations.
- Medical Terminology: Familiarizing yourself with healthcare language.
- Practical Training: Gaining real-world experience in a pharmacy setting.
Programs typically last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you pursue a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.
Pharmacy Tech Programs in New Hampshire
Here are some top local schools offering Pharmacy Tech programs in New Hampshire:
- Manchester Community College
- Location: 1066 Front St, Manchester, NH 03102
- Program: Offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program with hands-on training.
- Cost: Approximately $4,500 for the entire program.
- Website: Manchester Community College Pharmacy Tech Program
- Nashua Community College
- Location: 505 Amherst St, Nashua, NH 03063
- Program: Provides a Pharmacy Technician certificate program that prepares students for certification exams.
- Cost: Around $4,200 for the full program.
- Website: Nashua Community College Pharmacy Tech Program
- White Mountains Community College
- Location: 2020 Riverside Dr, Berlin, NH 03570
- Program: Offers a Pharmacy Technician program with a focus on both theoretical and practical skills.
- Cost: Approximately $4,000 for the program.
- Website: White Mountains Community College Pharmacy Tech Program
Pharmacy Tech Employment Opportunities in New Hampshire
Several major healthcare facilities and pharmacies in New Hampshire offer employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians:
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
- Location: Lebanon, NH
- Description: A leading academic medical center known for its comprehensive healthcare services.
- Employment Opportunities: Dartmouth-Hitchcock Careers
- Elliot Hospital
- Location: Manchester, NH
- Description: A prominent hospital offering a wide range of medical services.
- Employment Opportunities: Elliot Hospital Careers
- Concord Hospital
- Location: Concord, NH
- Description: A regional health system providing high-quality healthcare.
- Employment Opportunities: Concord Hospital Careers
Pharmacy Tech Certification Requirements
In New Hampshire, you can become either a Registered Pharmacy Technician or a Certified Pharmacy Technician. Here are the specific requirements:
Registered Pharmacy Technician
- Age Requirement: Be at least 16 years old.
- Education: Have a high school diploma or equivalent, or be working towards one.
- Registration: Submit an application and pay the licensing fee (currently $128 for 2024).
- Training: Complete 80 hours of on-the-job training and register with the board within 15 days.
- Background Check: Not have been convicted of a drug-related felony.
- Identification: Wear a tag identifying yourself as a Pharmacy Technician while on duty.
- Supervision: Work under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
Certified Pharmacy Technician
- Age Requirement: Be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Certification: Obtain a CPhT designation from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or another approved organization.
- Exam: Pass the PTCB Certification Exam (PTCE) or the ExCPT exam.
- Training Program: Complete a PTCB-approved training program or have 500 hours of equivalent work experience.
- Compliance: Comply with all PTCB policies and disclose any criminal and state Board of Pharmacy license actions.
- Registration: Submit an application and pay the licensing fee (currently $128 for 2024).
- Continuing Education: Complete board-approved continuing education to maintain certification.
For detailed guidelines, visit the New Hampshire State Board of Pharmacy.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of Pharmacy Tech programs in New Hampshire ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the institution and program length. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. For more information on financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website.
Certification Reciprocity
New Hampshire does not permit reciprocity for pharmacy technician licenses but recognizes national certifications from organizations like the PTCB. For more information, consult the New Hampshire State Board of Pharmacy.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in New Hampshire is a rewarding decision. With various educational paths and ample employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Contact a local school today to start your journey towards becoming a certified Pharmacy Technician!