Pharmacy Technician Schools in Iowa

Pharmacy technicians worldwide are responsible for carrying out administrative and clinical duties that keep pharmacies running smoothly. In Iowa, these professionals are well regarded and well compensated, with competitive compensation and career growth opportunities.

Residents of the state who want to start a career in this field will be glad to know there are no stringent requirements. Below, we outline the steps candidates must take to receive proper training, become certified, and access career opportunities.

We also present the appropriate figures for the earnings potential of pharmacy technicians in Iowa.

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Iowa

Candidates can start successful careers as pharmaceutical technicians in Iowa by following the approach outlined below.

Transferable Skills & Basic Requirements

Pharmacy technicians in Iowa need to have strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills. Since the position involves customer interaction, effective communication and interpersonal skills are also crucial.

For certification and training, candidates must also meet a few basic requirements, including passing a background check and having a high school diploma or equivalent.

Comprehensive Education

Comprehensive education for aspiring pharmacy technicians in Iowa must include both theoretical and practical components.

Academic Training

Academic training is the most straightforward path to technical education for prospective pharmacy technicians. Most candidates spent 1-2 years studying in an academic environment to prepare for their careers.

Those who seek convenience can choose online or hybrid programs with both virtual and in-person classes.

Internships & Externships

As part of their practical education, candidates may complete a few months of internship to gain real-world experience before securing a full-time position. Some training programs require this, while others make it optional.

Job Placement & Career Growth

Finally, after all of the above, candidates can then set their sights on employment and career growth. Certification is an effective way to advance careers, and we explore this topic in more depth below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a sterile processing technician in Iowa

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The state of Iowa requires professionals seeking to work as pharmacy technicians to complete the registration process before they can begin their careers. This process involves pursuing national certification and then registering with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy.

To obtain national certification, candidates must select their desired certification organization and pass the certification exam. The most common certification provider in the state and nationwide is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

Another suitable option is this certified pharmacy technician credential administered by the National Healthcareer Association.

Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in Iowa

The following programs are among the most respected for future pharmacy techs in Iowa.

Explore pharmacy technician schools in Iowa by city:

• Pharmacy technician schools in Des Moines

Salary & Career Outlook

The average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Iowa ranges from $25,516 to $59,387. At the lower end, this figure is relevant to those in the bottom 10% for any reason, including limited experience.

On the higher end, the top 10% are usually there because they have more experience and have optimized other factors, such as professional credentials, specialty, and location.

However, most pharmacy technicians in Iowa will fall into the median category. In this category, the expected annual average salary is approximately $38,927, according to Indeed.

Urbandale and Sioux City have the highest average annual salaries for pharmacy technicians in Iowa at $44,794 and $44,545, respectively. Dubuque also ranks third with an average annual salary of $43,644.