Pharmacy Technician Schools in New York

Pharmacy technicians are trained professionals who work with doctors, nurses, and pharmacists to perform a wide range of tasks, from processing insurance claims and tracking inventories to preparing new prescriptions and dispensing medication.

Professionals in this field can also choose specific areas of focus, from academia and government to critical care and oncology. In the guide below, we lay out everything that individuals in New York need to know to start a successful pharmacy technician career.

These include educational requirements, licensing and certification options, and top training destinations, among others.

How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in New York

Residents of New York can begin successful pharmacy technician careers by following the outline below.

Academic and Practical Education

Candidates in New York begin a pharmacy technician career by completing an academic program and developing real-world proficiency. Academic programs are great at introducing students to fundamental concepts and helping them earn valuable degrees and awards.

Depending on the length of time they want to spend in a program, individuals may graduate with a certificate or an associate’s degree.

Once this is done, they may complete an internship or an externship, during which they will work in an associate position and understand the real-world requirements of the profession.

Certification

Like most fields in healthcare, certification can set candidates apart, facilitate credibility, and show commitment. Pharmacy technicians in New York should consider several possible certification organizations and specific credentials.

We explore the top options and the steps required to earn one in an upcoming section.

Choosing a Specialty

It is possible to secure employment as a general pharmacy technician. However, individuals may prefer a narrow focus with better career opportunities.

In this case, they may choose a specialty area. Common options include working as laboratory pharmacy technicians, community pharmacy technicians, and central pharmacy operation technicians.

With training, certification, and a specialty focus, candidates in New York may create a resume and start applying for employment.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become a medical biller and coder in New York

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Pharmacy technicians in New York who would like to become certified may consider the credential offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. This will allow them to enjoy several professional opportunities, including networking, credibility, and a higher salary.

Individuals who would prefer a different alternative with an equally respected credential can choose to become certified by the National Healthcareer Association.

Both the PTCB and the NHA only offer professional credentials to candidates who have either passed through a recognized training program or have built up comparable work experience hours. They also both have professional examinations that candidates must pass before they receive their credentials.

Finally, pharmacy technicians have to register with the New York State Board of Pharmacy to receive an official license enabling them to practice in a professional capacity.

Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in New York

The following programs are among the top options for aspiring pharmacy technicians in New York.

Explore pharmacy technician schools in New York by city:

• Pharmacy technician schools in New York City

Salary & Career Outlook

Based on yearly returns alone, Flushing, with an annual average salary of $49,299; New Hyde Park, with an annual average salary of $46,036; and New Rochelle, with an annual average salary of $44,800, are the most favorable locations to work as pharmacy technicians in New York. Those who work in Brooklyn manage an annual average salary of $43,569.

A professional’s experience level is also very important in determining how much they may earn at the end of the year. Factors like professional credentials and employer/work environment also matter.

Currently, pharmacy technicians in New York who fall among the state average will be able to make an annual average salary of $40,316. Those who start from among the bottom 10% make an annual average salary of $25,294.

Ultimately, these professionals can make an annual average salary of $64,260, making them part of the top 10%.