SIC Offers Certified Pharmacy Technician Program in January

There is much more to being a pharmacy technician than filling prescriptions for patients. This is a fast-paced occupation working under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Jobs as pharmacy technicians are not limited to working in a community pharmacy, either. There are opportunities in hospitals, long-term care facilities, insurance companies and education amongst many others.

Southeastern Illinois College will once again offer a pharmacy technician program starting in January that is certified by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).  This certificate is intended to prepare students to function successfully in the role of pharmacy technician in both community and hospital pharmacies. There is also an emphasis on the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure medication safety in the pharmacy setting.

Students complete this certificate in only one semester by taking a seven-credit hour course. Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be eligible to apply for the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).

“The pharmacy technician course at SIC prepares students for an entry-level position under the direct supervision of a registered pharmacist,” said SIC Director of Nursing & Allied Health Amy Murphy. “Students gain the skills needed to serve patients in retail and acute care settings.”

One of SIC’s many goals through the pharmacy technician program is to not only help prepare the student for a job in the field, but to help them gain real world experience. This is done through job shadowing, which can then lead to job offers upon successful completion.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that from 2018 to 2028 employment as a pharmacy technician is projected to grow 7 percent, which is faster than average for all occupations. Median pay for 2018 was $32,700 per year.

For further details about SIC’s pharmacy technician program, visit www.sic.edu/pharmtech or contact an advisor at 618-252-5400 ext. 4130 or advising@sic.edu.

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