Certified pharmacy technicians work under the direct supervision of licensed pharmacists to perform routine tasks to help prepare prescribed medication, such as counting tablets and labeling bottles. They also perform administrative duties, such as answering phones, stocking shelves, organizing inventory, processing insurance claims, and computer entry of customer information. Technicians refer any questions regarding prescriptions, drug information, or health matters to a pharmacist.
This program is offered in spring, summer, and fall semesters. For detailed information on course start and end dates, call 860 773-1448 or e-mail [email protected] and request a registration packet.
Refunds may be obtained only if your written withdrawal is received by the Continuing Education Office three business days prior to the first class session.
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Employment Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of certified pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026. They can work in retail or mail-order pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted-living facilities. Most work full-time, but many work part-time. Increased demand for prescription medications will lead to more demand for pharmaceutical services. The median annual wage for certified pharmacy technicians in Connecticut is $38,070.
Certified Pharmacy Technician Program Description
This comprehensive 84-hour course will prepare students for an entry-level position in a community, hospital or long-term care setting. It is also an excellent review for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) national certification exam. Topics include medical terminology specific to the pharmacy; reading and interpreting prescriptions; and defining drugs by generic and brand names. Students will learn dosage calculation; I.V. flow rate; drug compounding; and dose conversion. Dispensing of prescriptions; inventory control; billing, and insurance reimbursement will also be discussed. A grade of 70 or higher and 85% attendance is required to successfully complete the program. It is not required that a Certified Pharmacy Technician be certified, but it is a good credential to have to secure employment. Students sit for the PTCB after course completion. Instructors provided by the Connecticut Pharmacists Association.
The Essential Job Skills & Career Development course is required to receive a certificate of completion for this program.
Please be advised that if you have been convicted of a felony, you may not be eligible for clinical experiences, internships, externships or certifications associated with certain allied health courses or programs. Those with previous convictions may also find it difficult to secure employment within a health care setting.
Time Commitment
This course is 84 hours, fully online, over an approximately 14-week period.
Payment Information
Total cost for the Certified Pharmacy Technician program is $2,491 (price subject to change).
- Total cost includes tuition, administrative fee, books, Essential Job Skills & Career Development course and the PTCB examination fee.
- WIOA & CT SNAP approved. Payment plan available.
- SNAP scholarships available for qualified applicants, call Shaina Hamel for details 860.773.1770.
Admission Requirements
- Email [email protected] to register.
- Must be 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Course Prerequisite: Fluency in basic math and algebra is required to complete necessary pharmaceutical calculations. A score of 70 on the math assessment (included in registration packet) is recommended.
Transfer Credits
Students who have successfully completed the Certified Pharmacy Technician Program are eligible to receive college credit through the Connecticut Credit Assessment Program administered by Charter Oak State College.
Credits may be used at Charter Oak State College or transferred to another school by setting up a credit registry with Charter Oak (Any transfer credit is at the discretion of the institution).
For more information, visit: Charter Oak’s Credit Registry site
Register by Email
Complete the forms in the registration packet and email to
[email protected].
Register In Person
Register in the Continuing Education office
Monday - Friday: 10am-6pm
Register by Fax
Complete the forms in the registration packet and fax to 860.606.9732.
Register by Mail
Registration and payment information must reach us at least one week prior to the start of the course. Registration forms must be completed in full. Make checks/money orders out to Tunxis Community College.
Mail to:
Tunxis Community College
Continuing Education Office
271 Scott Swamp Road
Farmington, CT 06032
Program Coordinator: Shaina Hamel
STUDENTS: The Community Colleges are undergoing a merger with a plan to become Connecticut State Community College in fall 2023; please work closely with your advisor/program coordinator to select your courses accordingly. Get more details about this merger.