Certified Pharmacy Technicians are experiencing ‘unprecedented high demand’ in the Chattanooga area according to Dr. Nancy Watts, director of Chattanooga State’s Pharmacy Technician Program, now celebrating its twentieth year. “The duties and responsibilities of pharmacy technicians are continuing to expand and technicians are being more highly utilized, especially in Tennessee,” states Watts.
Pharmacy technician’s work under the supervision of a pharmacist, must be willing to take directions, and be able to work competently without constant instruction by the pharmacist.
Because of the critical nature of many pharmacy duties, pharmacy technicians must perform precise work and be detail-oriented.
Chattanooga State offers a 12-month technical certificate course in addition to an associate of applied science degree (A.A.S.) in Health Sciences. Graduates are prepared for various pharmacy settings including community, hospital, long-term care, and insurance companies. The Pharmacy Technician Program boasts an impressive 100 percent job placement rate.
To be eligible for the program, students must be at college-level for reading, writing and preferred math, as well as having successfully passed a criminal background check and drug screening. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to increase by nine percent through 2024, which is faster than average for all occupations. The current average median salary is $30,000 per year.
Looking ahead to the future, “In 2020, applicants registering for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) national exam must have graduated from an American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists (ASHP) accredited program,” says Watts.
Applications are being accepted now and will continue to be accepted until the class is filled. TN Promise students are welcome. Financial aid is available to qualified students.
An upcoming information session has been scheduled for Wednesday, June 29 at 10 a.m. in the Health Sciences Center building, room 2118. No reservations are needed and attendance is not required; but strongly encouraged. The information session addresses the application process, admission requirements, selection, program details, curriculum, overview, and career opportunities.
For more information on the Pharmacy Technician program or information session, call 423.697.2690 or visit https://www.chattanoogastate.edu/pharmacy-technician-certificate for online applications and complete program information.