Do You Need to Go to School to Become a Pharmacy Technician?

If you’re considering a career in healthcare but aren’t sure if pursuing a lengthy or costly degree program is right for you, becoming a pharmacy technician might be a perfect fit. Pharmacy technicians work closely with pharmacists to ensure patients receive the correct medications, proper dosages, and accurate guidance. They are critical in patient care, helping healthcare systems run smoothly and efficiently. Best of all, becoming a pharmacy technician without attending college or a formal two-year degree program is possible. In fact, many people find that they can start their careers faster and save money by pursuing a more direct route.

This article will explain why pharmacy technicians are in demand, the certification requirements, and the steps to becoming one without going to school.

Why pharmacy technicians are in demand

The healthcare industry is expanding rapidly, driven by an aging population and the growing demand for medical care. As a result, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians who can support pharmacists in dispensing medications is at an all-time high. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for pharmacy technicians are projected to rise steadily over the coming years. This rising demand means solid job security and a competitive salary for those who choose to enter the field.

Additionally, pharmacy technicians' roles have evolved from primarily clerical tasks to a wide range of responsibilities. They not only fill prescriptions but also administer immunizations, help maintain patient records, and communicate with insurance companies. Their versatile skill sets make them valuable in many healthcare settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, physician offices, and nursing homes.

Do you need a college degree to become a pharmacy technician?

Contrary to popular belief, you do not need a college degree to become a pharmacy technician. While some community colleges and vocational schools offer two-year associate degrees in pharmacy technology, this formal education level is not required. In most states, you can become a pharmacy technician by meeting just a few requirements. These typically include having a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a criminal background check, and obtaining a certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

In other words, you can save time and money by bypassing the traditional education route. Instead of spending two years in a classroom and thousands of dollars on tuition, many people choose to enroll in a PTCB-recognized online course. These courses can take just a couple of months to complete and are significantly less expensive than traditional schooling. This approach enables you to start working in the field much sooner while still earning the same certification.

Understanding state licensing requirements

Each state sets its own rules for becoming a pharmacy technician. These rules are determined by the state’s Board of Pharmacy, and they can vary widely. Common requirements include:
  • Minimum Education
    Many states require a high school diploma or GED, but most also allow students currently in high school to get licensed as pharmacy technicians. This allows them to gain hands-on healthcare experience before graduating.
  • Background Check
    Pharmacy technicians handle sensitive medications and patient data, so a clean criminal background check is usually required. This process helps ensure patient safety and maintains the integrity of the healthcare system.
  • Certification
    Most states require a certification before you can start working as a pharmacy technician. The certification proves your understanding of medications and pharmacy law and shows you know how to practice pharmacy.
State requirements for pharmacy technicians vary, so it’s important to check the rules in your state. Our State Requirements Guide is a great resource to help you get started. 

Earning the PTCB certification

The PTCB certification is the gold standard for pharmacy technicians. To earn this credential, you must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), a comprehensive test covering pharmacology, pharmacy law and regulations, medication safety, and quality assurance.

Before you can sit for the PTCE, you’ll need to meet the PTCB’s educational requirements, which can involve completing a recognized training program. These programs are designed to cover all of the topics on the PTCE, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for the test and your future career. They generally fall into two categories: traditional, in-person schooling and online courses.

Traditional schooling

Community colleges and vocational schools often offer pharmacy technician programs of varying lengths and costs. These classroom-based options are ideal for those who learn best through face-to-face interaction and structured schedules. Contacting local institutions can help you compare tuition, program length, and start dates.

Online programs

Online pharmacy technician programs are increasingly popular for their flexibility and convenience. Some follow a set schedule, while others are self-paced, allowing you to work through the material at your own speed. This path is perfect for those who prefer studying from home or have other commitments that make attending traditional classes challenging. 

Alternative options 

For seasoned pharmacy technicians who have already accumulated at least 500 hours of documented pharmacy experience, the PTCB provides an alternative route to certification. In this case, you may be eligible to take the exam without completing a formal training program.

The benefits of online courses 

Choosing not to attend a formal associate degree program to become a pharmacy technician offers several key advantages:
  • Cost Savings 
    Traditional higher education can be expensive. By opting out of a formal degree program, you can avoid thousands of dollars in tuition and related fees. The cost of PTCB-recognized online courses is generally much lower than a full-scale college program.
  • Speed 
    While associate degree programs typically take about two years to complete, many online courses can be finished in just a few months, allowing you to start your career much sooner.
  • Flexibility
    Online and self-paced courses allow you to create a schedule that fits around your work, family, or other commitments. This flexibility is especially appealing for those transitioning from another career or managing multiple responsibilities.
  • Same Certification
    Regardless of your education path, completing a recognized program and passing the PTCE will earn you the same Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.

A rewarding career

Becoming a pharmacy technician doesn’t require a formal degree or years of schooling. By passing the PTCB exam and meeting your state’s specific requirements, you can start your career in just a few months—earning a stable income, enjoying job security, and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Whether you work in a busy community pharmacy or a specialized hospital setting, your role will be vital to improving patient health and well-being as part of a healthcare team.

How Pharmacy Technician Academy Can Help

At Pharmacy Technician Academy, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve certification and succeed as a pharmacy technician. Our 1st Pass CPhT Course is a recognized program by the PTCB and designed to thoroughly prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). 

By completing the 1st Pass CPhT Course, you’ll meet the PTCB’s eligibility requirements to take the certification exam, even if you don’t have prior pharmacy experience. The course is structured to cover all the essential topics tested on the PTCE, including medication basics, pharmacy law, patient safety, and more—giving you the knowledge and confidence needed to pass on your first attempt. 

We’re here to support aspiring pharmacy technicians with everything they need to achieve certification and thrive in their careers.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a college degree to become a pharmacy technician?

No, a college degree is not required to become a pharmacy technician. While some community colleges and vocational schools offer two-year programs, most employers are primarily concerned with whether you are PTCB certified, regardless of the education path you take.

How long does it take to become a certified pharmacy technician?

The timeline varies depending on your chosen path. Online programs can often be completed in a couple of months, while associate degree programs take about two years. Once you meet educational requirements, passing the PTCB exam is the final step to certification.

Do you need to go to school to become a pharmacy technician?

No, attending school is not required to become a certified pharmacy technician. You can complete a PTCB-recognized online course to meet the eligibility requirements for the certification exam. After passing the exam, you’ll earn your CPhT credential.

Can you take the PTCB exam without completing a PTCB-recognized program?

If you already have at least 500 hours of documented pharmacy technician experience, the PTCB allows you to take the exam without completing a formal training program. This alternative pathway is designed for well-experienced pharmacy technicians with plenty of hands-on experience.