Pharmacy Technician Schools in North Carolina

The following guide outlines the requirements and considerations typically involved in starting a career as a pharmacy technician in North Carolina. These requirements ensure that candidates are properly educated and can carry out the required duties of a pharmacy technician at a high level.

When entering the profession, residents of North Carolina must adhere to these steps while enjoying a few flexibilities concerning their particular educational approach and training institution.

Below, we analyze all available options, along with the certification requirements for career opportunities.

How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in North Carolina

Aspiring pharmacy technicians in North Carolina typically begin their careers by following the outline below.

Choosing an Educational Pathway

North Carolina residents typically have two options for pharmacy technician education: completing an academic program or receiving on-the-job training.

Formal Academic Training

Formal academic training equips students with the key skills that pharmacy technicians are expected to possess, while preparing them for employment or experiential learning. Some pharmacy technician programs require students to be physically present on campus, while others allow for virtual or online learning.

Another difference between pharmacy technician programs can be found in the award or degree offered. While some offer certificate programs that can be completed in a few months or a year, others are responsible for associate degree programs that take around 2 years or 18 months to complete.

On-the-Job Training

Through experiential learning opportunities, aspiring pharmacy technicians will not only be well-versed in theoretical principles but also gain hands-on experience. Still, they will also be able to apply their knowledge in a real-world work environment. Candidates may take advantage of such training opportunities by exploring establishments that offer experiential education.

It is also possible to combine academic training with on-the-job training. For example, you can complete an online program and participate in an externship simultaneously or afterwards.

Certification & Transferable Skills

The majority of pharmacy technicians pursue certification to enjoy professional credibility and resources. This is also necessary to register with the relevant bodies and obtain the necessary qualifications to practice in a professional capacity.

Transferable attributes for pharmacy technicians in North Carolina typically include problem-solving, critical thinking, interpersonal skills, effective communication, and planning and organization.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a personal trainer in North Carolina

Licensure & Certification Requirements

To become a certified pharmacy technician in North Carolina, candidates must select a certifying agency, pass a certification examination, and maintain their credentials through ongoing continuing education. The most prominent certifying agency for professionals in the field is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

The major requirements for certification by the PTCB include graduation from a training program and work experience. Usually, individuals who have completed a program and accrued 500 hours of experience will have no trouble qualifying for the examination.

The National Healthcareer Association also offers highly rated credentials for pharmacy technicians in North Carolina. The requirements and steps to earn this certification are generally similar to those instituted by the PTCB.

Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in North Carolina

The entries below are among the top training programs for future pharmacy technicians in North Carolina.

Explore pharmacy technician schools in North Carolina by city:

• Pharmacy technician schools in Charlotte

Salary & Career Outlook

Due to the gap in experience, pharmacy technicians in North Carolina who are new to the field may not necessarily earn as much as those who have been in the field for a while. Data show that while the former can earn an annual average salary of around $25,767, the latter, in the top 10% category, will be able to manage an annual average salary of $46,059.

Also common are those who are in the median range, with an annual average salary of $34,450. This figure is also on par with the national average for other states.

Sorting by location, the highest-paying cities to work as a pharmacy technician in North Carolina include Washington, with an annual average salary of $38,883; Cary, at $38,627; and Greensboro, at $36,979.

The average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Asheville is $36,725. Factors like work environment, employer, and professional credentials also influence this salary.