Pharmacy Technician Schools in Massachusetts

The growing aging population has contributed significantly to the ongoing rise in demand for pharmacy technicians nationwide. The same is true in Massachusetts, where these professionals are highly sought after.

For readers of this page who are aspiring pharmacy technicians in Massachusetts, we have provided a simple yet comprehensive overview of key considerations to help ensure the best possible outcome. These include certification considerations, licensing steps, educational alternatives and training routes, unique programs, and more.

The guide also provides an overview of the salaries earned by pharmacy technicians in Massachusetts.

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Massachusetts

All of the steps below are necessary to become a successful pharmacy technician in Massachusetts.

Choosing a Training Destination

Massachusetts offers several training destinations for candidates looking to learn pharmacy technology, including campus-based and online options. Of course, candidates can also choose their training destination based on training duration.

For instance, those who would like to complete their education as quickly as possible can pursue certificate programs and graduate within a few months to a year. For those seeking the most immersive training experience, associate degree programs can be completed in two years.

During their training, students learn the duties of a pharmacy tech, dosage calculations, safety protocols, pharmacology, and more. Candidates can continue learning even after completing these programs by transferring their credits to other advanced institutions.

Internships & Hands-On Education

While classroom education is essential for theoretical proficiency, practical experience through an internship is equally important for new pharmacy technicians. It gives them the confidence to perform their jobs at a high level and helps them acclimate to work environments very quickly.

Candidates can also work in an assistant role for a period to achieve the same goals as internships and externships.

Employment & Career Growth

Candidates with the right training, certifications, or licensure can secure full-time pharmacy technician positions in Massachusetts. Their careers can be significantly boosted by specialization and choosing the right work environment.

The most popular options include central operations, laboratory work, community pharmacy tech, and more.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a dental assistant in Massachusetts

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The Bureau of Health Professions Licensure oversees the affairs of pharmacy technicians in the state. Candidates who would like to work in a professional capacity must complete the steps above and register with the bureau.

They must provide proof of a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years old. They will also have to submit an official application and pay the application fees.

Certification is another important component that can lead to career opportunities and skill verification. Professionals typically pursue the Certified Pharmacy Technician credential issued by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. They must pass a professional examination to obtain this credential.

Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in Massachusetts

The institutions below provide some of the best training programs for future pharmacy technicians in Massachusetts.

Explore pharmacy technician schools in Massachusetts by city:

• Pharmacy technician schools in Boston

Salary & Career Outlook

Location is a major factor influencing how much pharmacy technicians earn in Massachusetts. Currently, the places with the highest averages include the following:

• Pittsfield, with an annual office salary of $54,915;
• Marlborough, with an annual office salary of $45,075; and
• Worcester, with an annual average salary of $44,531.

Disparities in yearly earnings are also caused by factors such as experience, employers, work environment, specialties, and more. Generally, the figures can be divided into three categories without focusing on any singular criterion.

These are:

• The top 10% with an annual average salary of $57,103;
• The bottom 10% with an annual average salary of $31,552; and
• The median earner earns $42,447 per year, according to Indeed.