As with most professions, individuals in Kentucky can significantly increase their chances of success as pharmacy technicians by focusing on comprehensive education and career advancement from the start. This includes prioritizing appropriate training arrangements, selecting the right certification agencies, and leveraging other professional resources to achieve this goal.
Below, we show readers exactly how to do this through a robust guide. We analyze the major requirements for training and certification, the available options when it comes to
How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Kentucky
The framework below can help you start a successful career as a pharmacy technician anywhere in Kentucky.
Age & Basic Requirements
Kentucky pharmacy technicians usually have a high school diploma. Those without a high school diploma can use a GED equivalent.
Candidates must also meet a few basic requirements, including being at least 18 years old, passing a background check, and being vaccinated against certain diseases.
Completing a Recognized Program
Once they meet the basic requirements, candidates can apply for admission to top programs. It is worth noting that individuals can pursue faster certificate programs that can be completed in a year if they would like to begin their careers as quickly as possible.
For those who prioritize rigorous education over a faster start, an associate degree program is the right choice.
Real-World Education
After academic education, real-world education follows. The best training programs already address this aspect of the journey by requiring students to complete an internship.
Even online programs offer externships or assistant positions, allowing candidates to acclimate to the real world without the pressure of being full-fledged employees.
Certification and Employment
Certification helps verify validity and skills. It is also crucial for professional benefits, as we will see below. Finally, having met all of the above expectations, professionals can apply for open positions and begin their careers with a focus on rapid growth.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
For those who wish to work as professional pharmacy technicians in good standing with the state, the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy requires proper registration and an application. Candidates can submit their applications online if they meet the requirements.
These requirements include having proper education, being at least 18 years old, and paying the application fee. Certification is not mandatory, but it is popular for the professional benefits it offers.
After passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification exam, candidates will officially become Certified Pharmacy Technicians in Kentucky. Another organization with a CPhT credentialing exam is the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in Kentucky
Below are some of the most prominent training institutions to consider for aspiring pharmacy techs in Kentucky.
Jefferson Community & Technical College
Louisville, KY Campus + Online
Jefferson Community & Technical College offers a comprehensive pharmacy technician program that prepares students for professional practice through structured instruction and hands-on learning. Students study under experienced instructors and complete coursework in pharmaceutical procedures, pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and applied pharmacy experience.
Tuition
$195 - $270 per CreditContact
(855) 246-5282
jf-PharmTechInfo@kctcs.edu
Campbellsville University
Louisville, KY Campus Only
Campbellsville University provides an accelerated pharmacy technician program designed to help students enter the workforce quickly while maintaining strong academic and practical standards. Learners complete 240 clock hours of instruction in a single semester, receiving focused training in medication dispensing, pharmaceutical calculations, and core pharmacy operations.
Tuition
$2,600 per ProgramContact
(270) 789-5036
frjoyner@campbellsville.edu
Somerset Community College
Somerset, KY Campus + Online
Somerset Community College delivers a well-established pharmacy technician program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for certification and employment.
Tuition
$195 - $270 per CreditContact
(855) 664-6722
lorrenda.merritt@kctcs.edu
Explore pharmacy technician schools in Kentucky by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Pharmacy technicians in Kentucky often end the year with an annual average salary of $34,017, according to Indeed. This is because it is the state’s median income, where most professionals fall.
For those just beginning their careers, the average annual salary is $25,435. This is the figure for the bottom 10%.
The top 10% of pharmacy technicians in the state earn an average annual salary of $45,496. Candidates can move from a lower to a higher bracket by optimizing factors such as experience and location.
Regarding the latter, the top-paying cities for these professionals in Kentucky include Louisville ($37,609), Lexington ($36,718), and Nicholasville ($35,393).




