Pharmacy technicians in Chicago typically experience a high demand for their expertise and have an established platform for ongoing career growth. This, along with the competitive salary and flexible work environment, is one reason why the field continues to grow and is expected to maintain this path.
Thankfully for aspiring pharmacy technicians in the city, there is no shortage of amazing training programs to attend for a successful career launch. The guide on this page aims to introduce interested individuals to the most prominent among these destinations.
We also perform a brief examination of the steps necessary to become a pharmacy technician in Chicago.
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Chicago
Pharmacy technicians in Illinois must be registered and approved by both the Illinois State Board of Pharmacy and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The steps to achieve this objective begin with a high school diploma or GED to secure admission into a training program.
Candidates may choose a certificate program that can be completed in under a year or an associate degree program that takes two years to complete. Afterwards, they are expected to consolidate their theoretical proficiency with experiential learning in an actual pharmacy.
Then, they can qualify for the certification examination offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Only those who have been certified can receive approval from the state department.
Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in Chicago, Illinois
The following schools are among the best options for comprehensive pharmacy technician education in Chicago, Illinois.
Illinois Valley Community College
Online, IL Online Only
Illinois Valley Community College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that is approved for the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act, leading to financial assistance for qualified students. The program operates at a high educational standard and is recognized for developing highly skilled pharmacy technicians with practical knowledge of processing and handling procedures.
Tuition
$2,995 - $3,390 per ProgramContact
(815) 224-0374
Southwest Illinois College
Belleville, IL Campus Only
Southwest Illinois College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that can be completed in one semester and leads to a certificate. The program takes place during the spring and fall semesters and also includes opportunities for practical experience.
Tuition
$123 - $240 per Semester CreditContact
(618) 235-2700 Ext: 5315
melissa.epps@swic.edu
College of DuPage
Glen Ellyn, IL Campus + Online
Prospective pharmacy technicians in Chicago may consider the College of DuPage program to start their careers. The program includes certification preparations and boasts alignment with standards set by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
Tuition
$1,999 per ProgramContact
(630) 942-2208
healthcare@cod.edu
University of Illinois Springfield
Online, IL Online Only
University of Illinois Springfield has a 100% online Pharmacy Technician training program designed to prepare students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). This immersive course includes a voucher for the certification exam and encompasses 400 hours of coursework, which students can complete within 12 months.
Tuition
$2,995 - $3,390 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
South Suburban College
South Holland, IL Campus Only
South Suburban College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that combines classroom instruction, laboratory sessions, and practical pharmacy education. The program can be completed in two semesters and leads to qualification for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board national exam.
Tuition
$152 - $405 per CreditContact
(708) 596-2000 Ext: 2258
SChapman@ssc.edu
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: