Two recently launched pharmacy technician training programs from Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) have made it possible for students nationwide to prepare for a career in this expanding field, which is projected to experience double-digit growth in the coming years. According to a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) list of the 30 fastest-growing occupations, pharmacy technicians hold the #23 spot, with an expected employment increase of 30.57% between 2008 and 2018.
UMA's healthcare training offerings include a Pharmacy Technician diploma program and an Associate of Science in Health Sciences program with a concentration in Pharmacy Technician. Students throughout the U.S. can complete their online healthcare education through a convenient, Internet-based learning platform, while Florida residents may choose to attend classes on UMA's Tampa campus.
Both programs are designed to help students develop relevant skills, such as maintaining written and electronic patient medication records, stocking prescription and over-the-counter medications, preparing medicine for dispensation and processing insurance claim forms. Upon completion of the diploma or degree program, graduates are eligible for registration as a pharmacy technician and prepared to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
The Pharmacy Technician diploma program can be completed in as few as 10 months, which means graduates can apply for entry-level positions in under a year. The Health Sciences/Pharmacy Technician degree program expands on the diploma curriculum, adding general education courses and electives for a broad-based foundation. Students in the degree program will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through an onsite externship or online practicum.
BLS findings show that approximately 75% of pharmacy technician jobs are in retail settings, with another 16% in hospitals. Technicians are sought by national pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS as well as numerous mass retailers and grocery chains, so qualified professionals can find opportunities in local outlets across the country.
"UMA's broad portfolio of healthcare degrees and diploma programs enable students to obtain industry-relevant education in the allied health field that best suits their skills and interests. Pharmacy technician training can be a good choice for individuals looking to acquire credentials in a field that appears to be poised for steady growth," said Dr. S. David Vaillancourt, Online Director of Education at Ultimate Medical Academy. "By offering online pharmacy technician degree and diploma programs, UMA makes quality healthcare education available to students everywhere. Those who prefer a more traditional classroom environment can find it on our Tampa campus. We believe in providing choices and flexibility, and we are committed to helping our students achieve success."
Among the advantages of pursuing healthcare training through UMA is the school's unique Think, Build, Live Success™ (TBLS) program. This training, life skills and self-empowerment curriculum is integrated into every academic program, and is designed to help students become well-rounded professionals. TBLS emphasizes the importance of balancing technical knowledge with interpersonal and organizational skills and provides ongoing support to graduates as they prepare to enter the job market.
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