The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy will offer a new online pharmacy technician training program in partnership with the Therapeutic Research Center.
James Wheeler, PharmD, BCPS, director of the Continuing Professional Development program at the UTHSC College of Pharmacy, said the program will be available exclusively online, can be completed in as little as three months, and will enroll its first cohort of students October 1. He added that as the practice of pharmacy expands to encompass direct patient care clinical service, the demand for competent and capable technicians to support pharmacists in these roles increases.
“Job growth for pharmacy technicians continues to outpace all other occupations,” Dr. Wheeler said. “Whether you are looking to launch a new career or make a career change, this program is one you should consider. Comparing the cost of the program to the average salary of a pharmacy technician plus the anticipated job growth, it’s a smart investment.”
The training program offers an affordable and accessible means to fast-track a career in the healthcare industry. The entire program costs $1,800 and requires approximately 160 hours to complete. Those completing the program will be eligible to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and will also have dedicated access to college faculty for support.
“We just launched our marketing campaign in mid-August to spread the word about our exciting new partnership, and we look forward to welcoming our inaugural cohort,” said Rachel Barenie, PharmD, JD, MPH, assistant director of the Continuing Professional Development program at the College of Pharmacy. “The fact that this program is completely online and self-paced is a major benefit, especially in the trying times of COVID-19.”
Enrollment is currently open for the pharmacy technician training program. The inaugural cohort is slated to start their training October 1, 2020. Visit the Continuing Education webpage to learn more.