Pharmacy Technician (PHA) is a Certificate program offered by Pima Medical Institute in Colorado Springs, CO. The program takes 36 weeks (5-day schedule) to complete, with a total tuition of $16,817.
Program Overview
Objective: To develop in students the intrapersonal and professional skills needed to perform as competent entry-level pharmacy technicians through didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory practice, and externship experiences. Among the topics covered in the curriculum are customer service, drug inventory management, prescription preparation that includes training in sterile products and aseptic techniques, and other topics necessary to be effective members of the pharmacy technician team. A sterile products certification course is offered through the National Pharmacy Technician Association/NPTA as part of the program.
Graduates of this program receive a certificate and are eligible to apply to take national examinations to become certified pharmacy technicians. The courses within the program are acceptable for credit toward PMI's Health Care Administration Associate of Applied Science Degree Program.
At a Glance: Program Type: Certificate. Delivery Method: On-ground or hybrid. Semester Credits: 33.5. Program Hours: 840. Program Weeks (Five-Day Schedule): 36. Class hours: 376-416 (hours vary by location); Lab hours: 224; Externship hours: 160-240 (hours vary by location).
We have partnered with PioneerRx Pharmacy Software to provide students an opportunity to apply their knowledge in a simulated, real-world pharmacy management system.
Hybrid Learning Options: All courses are taught on campus to ensure you get the hands-on clinical experience this program requires. For students who need more flexibility in their schedules, hybrid learning options are available at select campuses, combining in-person instruction two days a week with online learning three days a week. Externship hours are completed fully in person. (Hybrid education options not available at all campuses.)
School Information
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Tuition is $16,817.00. The published total cost is $18,358.00.
Admission Requirements and Process
Admissions Requirements: Refer to the Admissions information in the Prospective Students section of this catalog.
Eligibility Requirements (pmi.edu): Possess a high school diploma or recognized equivalency; Additional requirements may apply by campus.
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Program Schedule
Delivery Method: On-ground or hybrid. Program Hours: 840. Program Weeks (Five-Day Schedule): 36. Note: The catalog also publishes a separate outline for the Pharmacy Technician program at the Renton campus (Program Hours: 800; Semester Credits: 34.5; Delivery Method: Hybrid; Five-Day Schedule: 36 weeks).
Career Outcomes
Certification: Pima Medical Institute's Pharmacy Technician certificate program prepares graduates to apply to sit for the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). (Certification and state registration requirements vary.)
Entry-level roles: Pharmacy technician, pharmacy clerk, or IV-certified pharmacy technician across hospitals, retail or mail-order pharmacies, assisted-living facilities, nursing homes, in-home health environments, and other healthcare facilities.
Career advancement: Move into lead or senior tech roles or pivot into pharmaceutical sales or pharmacy management.
The Pharmacy Technician certificate program prepares students to apply for roles including: Pharmacy Technician; IV-Certified Pharmacy Technician; Pharmacy Clerk; Compounding Pharmacy Technician; Hospital Pharmacy Technician; Specialty Pharmacy Technician. These careers may exist in a variety of health care environments including retail and community pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens and independent pharmacies), hospital and medical center inpatient pharmacies, long-term care and assisted living pharmacies, mail-order and specialty compounding pharmacies, pharmaceutical manufacturers and clinic pharmacies.
Job Outlook: 6% Growth — The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects this occupation to grow faster than average over the next 10 years, with a median pay of $43,460 per year.
School Information
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Tuition is $16,817.00. The published total cost is $18,358.00.