Online Pharmacy Tech Programs: Top Schools & More
Online pharmacy tech programs offer a convenient path into one of today’s fastest-growing fields in allied health. Taking your first steps to enroll in a program is exciting, but it comes with questions: How do you balance coursework with other responsibilities? Will the training prepare you for on-the-job responsibilities like filling prescriptions or understanding drug interactions? Let EduMed show you what to expect and how to thrive in your classes and career.
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
Healthcare Education Editorial Nursing Nursing Nursing Ed.
Pharmacy Tech Pharmacy OperationsWhat Healthcare Professionals Say About Choosing a Pharmacy Tech Program
Pharmacy tech programs can vary considerably in depth, certification focus, and the types of settings they prepare students for. The programs in this ranking are all solid options, but the right choice depends on your career goals: retail pharmacy, hospital settings, and specialty compounding each benefit from different kinds of preparation. Our healthcare professionals share what to think through first.
Prioritize CPhT Exam Preparation
Even though it’s not required in every state, the CPhT certification is becoming a more common employer requirement for pharmacy techs. I’d be wary of investing in a program that doesn’t explicitly prepare you for the certification exam.
Use Current PTCB Study Materials
Strongly consider getting certified, not just because many states require it, but because certified techs often earn more than those without credentials. Also, make sure your study materials are current because the PTCB recently updated its certification exam with a bigger focus on federal drug laws and medication tracking regulation, so older prep books may not reflect what you will see on test day.
How Online Pharmacy Tech Programs Work
Pharmacy tech programs offer students a wide range of credential opportunities. Entry-level students can earn certificates or diplomas to begin their education, or move straight into a more rigorous associate degree program. Students can also choose between campus-based programs and mostly online programs, which offer coursework online and hands-on work (if any) on campus or at a third-party location.
Those are the basics, but how do they actually work online? Let’s review three top pharmacy tech programs with online learning options.
Online Pharmacy Technician Course – Western Nevada College
Western Nevada College offers a fully online pharmacy technician course that prepares students to take the PTCB National Certification exam. Students in this program will develop the knowledge and skills to succeed in their future roles by learning how to identify medication orders and read prescription forms accurately.
On top of being fully online, this course is self-paced and has open enrollment, meaning students can start at any time. The curriculum is composed of two main components: medical terminology and pharmacy technician.
After completing the course, students will be able to complete a 100-hour practicum experience to further their skills and preparation for state licensure.
Duration: One year
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $2,995 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology (13 modules)
- Pharmacy Technician (22 modules)
Best For: Students seeking an affordable and streamlined path to certification so they can quickly enter entry-level pharmacy tech positions.
Programs that might interest you:
Online Pharmacy Technician Certificate – California State University Long Beach
Cal State Long Beach offers a self-paced online pharmacy technician certificate program that prepares students to work in retail or other pharmacy settings. Even though the program is offered 100% online and is self-paced, students are paired with a coordinator to assist them with any questions or obstacles they may face throughout the program.
For those interested in a program with a bit more structure, the school also offers a hybrid pharmacy technician certification program with live instructor-led lectures and in-person lab sessions.
Both programs span 50 hours of learning and prepare students to sit for national exams.
Duration: 50 hours
Mode: Online
Cost: $1,399 total
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
Curriculum:
- Medical terminology specific to the pharmacy industry
- Reading and interpreting prescriptions and defining drugs by generic and brand names
- Dosage calculations
- IV flow rates
- Drug compounding
- Dose conversions
- Dispensing of prescriptions
- Inventory control
- Billing and reimbursement
Best For: Students with strong independence, self-discipline, and self-motivation to succeed on their own, at their own pace.
Online Pharmacy Tech Associate Degree – American National University
American National University offers an online associate degree for aspiring pharmacy technicians. As a distance program, it combines synchronous video and asynchronous online learning. Throughout the program, students will gain hands-on experience through two 120-hour externships at pharmacies.
Past students have a first-time attempt PTCE pass rate of 48.4%. After graduation, students will be able to take on roles at retail pharmacies, the military, local physician offices, non-chain pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. The program is a total of 96 credit hours.
Duration: Two years
Mode: Online
Cost: $36,672 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Pass a background check
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
Curriculum:
- 56 program core credits
- Diseases of the Human Body
- Pharmacy Calculation for Technicians
- Pharmacy Law & Ethics
- Community Pharmacy Operation and Laboratory
- Institutional Pharmacy Operation and Laboratory
- 24 general education credits
- English Composition
- Thinking Critically
- Psychology
- General Sociology
- Basic Anatomy and Physiology
- 16 elective credits
- Principles of Accounting
- Organizational Leadership
- Human Resource Management
- Desktop Applications
- Medical Terminology
Best For: Students looking for a broader education that combines general education courses alongside pharmacy technician training.
Pharmacy Tech Student FAQs
From course requirements to how clinical training works, it’s likely that you have a few key questions you’re looking to get answered before ultimately pursuing your pharmacy tech education. We answered some of the most common questions that students just like yourself have.
Is pharmacy tech a good career choice?
Becoming a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding career choice, but like any path, it depends on your goals. If you’re drawn to healthcare but prefer a behind-the-scenes role, this profession offers a fulfilling way to help patients.
The field provides stability and growth potential, with demand for pharmacy techs steadily increasing. It can also be a stepping stone to advancing as a pharmacist. Plus, it’s a great option if you want to start quickly without significantly investing time or money in education.
What is the highest level of education for a pharmacy technician?
The highest level of education for a pharmacy technician is typically an associate degree, but ultimately depends on your personal career goals and state requirements. While you can start with a high school diploma and complete a certification program, pursuing an associate degree in pharmacy tech will give you more advanced knowledge and career opportunities.
This can be helpful if you’re aiming for specialized roles or management positions. However, pharmacy techs don’t require a bachelor’s or advanced degree, but these are options if growing or pivoting your career is desirable.
What are the four different levels of pharmacy technicians?
Pharmacy technicians can advance through various levels based on their training and experience. Each level builds on the last, offering opportunities for growth and leadership. The four different levels of pharmacy technicians include:
- Entry-level pharmacy technician: gain foundational skills through on-the-job training or a college course
- Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT): earn certification by passing an exam like the PTCB, which demonstrates professional expertise
- Advanced pharmacy technician: specialize in areas such as sterile compounding or informatics
- Lead pharmacy technician: oversee training, manage inventory, and handle specialized operations
What are the three specialty certifications a pharmacy technician may earn?
Three popular specialty certifications a pharmacy technician may earn are sterile compounding, medication therapy management, and hazardous drug management:
- Sterile compounding: ideal for those interested in preparing medications like IVs or injections in sterile environments like hospitals and clinicals
- Medical therapy management: best for those who want to work directly with pharmacists, optimizing medication use and improving patient outcomes
- Hazardous drug management: prepares students to handle and safely manage hazardous drugs in high-risk treatments, like chemotherapy
What are the benefits of being a certified pharmacy technician?
There are several key benefits to becoming a certified pharmacy technician. Certification enhances your career stability, credibility, and long-term opportunities in the field, such as:
- Job Marketability: Employers often prefer or require certified technicians, as it shows you meet industry standards and are prepared to handle critical tasks like dispensing medication and managing inventory
- Higher Earning Potential: Demonstrates your expertise and professionalism, making you a stronger candidate for jobs and increasing your earning potential
- Career Advancement: Can open doors to advanced roles, such as specialized pharmacy areas or supervisory positions
- Professional Development: Provides opportunities for professional growth and continuing education, keeping your skills sharp
Tuition & Fees for Online Pharmacy Tech Programs
One concern nearly every student shares, regardless of their field of study, is how to afford school. While pharmacy tech programs are generally more affordable than degree programs in other fields, tuition and fees can still add up – especially if unexpected costs arise after enrollment.
To help you estimate the cost of your online pharmacy tech education, the table below compares tuition and fees for five different programs. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the final cost will depend on financial aid offered through the school and whether you’re able to secure any external funding, like scholarships.
| School Name | Program Type | Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
School Name | Program Type Online Certificate | Tuition & Fees $979 total |
School Name | Program Type Online Certificate | Tuition & Fees $1,499 total |
School Name | Program Type Online Associate Degree | Tuition & Fees $36,672 total |
School Name | Program Type Online Course | Tuition & Fees $2,995 total |
School Name | Program Type Online Course | Tuition & Fees $180 registration fee |
School Name | Program Type Online Certificate | Tuition & Fees $899 total |
School Name | Program Type Online Certificate | Tuition & Fees $800 total |
Pharmacy Tech Certification Requirements
Certification is a vital step for pharmacy technicians, demonstrating their knowledge, skills, and commitment to professionalism in the field. While not always required, certification is increasingly preferred by employers and can make candidates more competitive in the job market.
Certified pharmacy technicians (CPhTs) are trusted to perform critical tasks, including:
- Preparing prescriptions accurately
- Managing inventory
- Supporting pharmacists in patient care
To become certified, pharmacy techs typically need to pass an exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Reasons why certification can be a valuable investment for aspiring pharmacy techs:
- Opens doors to specialized roles, higher pay, and career advancement opportunities
- Ensures you are well-versed in safety protocols and legal regulations, reducing errors and improving patient outcomes
- Enhances your credibility and career prospects, all while providing a strong foundation for success in the field
Salary & Career Outlook for Pharmacy Techs
Pharmacy Technicians
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $36,020 | $45,750 | $61,040 |
| Alabama | $31,620 | $39,030 | $49,760 |
| Alaska | $40,820 | $52,640 | $70,720 |
| Arizona | $39,040 | $47,640 | $60,820 |
| Arkansas | $33,400 | $38,680 | $48,620 |
| California | $42,850 | $55,110 | $81,190 |
| Colorado | $39,810 | $49,970 | $64,760 |
| Connecticut | $37,410 | $47,050 | $62,230 |
| Delaware | $35,460 | $46,430 | $57,400 |
| District of Columbia | $41,300 | $47,410 | $74,100 |
| Florida | $35,760 | $43,590 | $54,980 |
| Georgia | $35,160 | $41,910 | $56,820 |
| Hawaii | $36,120 | $46,760 | $62,190 |
| Idaho | $37,380 | $46,420 | $59,230 |
| Illinois | $36,550 | $46,650 | $58,260 |
| Indiana | $36,610 | $44,560 | $54,800 |
| Iowa | $36,140 | $44,860 | $52,150 |
| Kansas | $33,800 | $43,310 | $56,160 |
| Kentucky | $31,760 | $39,200 | $52,640 |
| Louisiana | $36,100 | $44,410 | $52,920 |
| Maine | $37,060 | $45,400 | $57,360 |
| Maryland | $36,180 | $45,120 | $60,050 |
| Massachusetts | $37,980 | $46,470 | $71,070 |
| Michigan | $35,430 | $44,340 | $54,740 |
| Minnesota | $38,110 | $48,300 | $62,080 |
| Mississippi | $33,340 | $39,040 | $49,250 |
| Missouri | $33,830 | $40,100 | $54,600 |
| Montana | $38,330 | $49,400 | $60,780 |
| Nebraska | $36,710 | $46,610 | $57,110 |
| Nevada | $37,350 | $47,980 | $62,500 |
| New Hampshire | $37,080 | $47,360 | $61,630 |
| New Jersey | $36,170 | $39,610 | $59,700 |
| New Mexico | $37,470 | $46,630 | $58,780 |
| New York | $36,540 | $43,930 | $64,690 |
| North Carolina | $35,820 | $44,530 | $57,360 |
| North Dakota | $38,370 | $47,560 | $63,850 |
| Ohio | $34,980 | $40,650 | $56,520 |
| Oklahoma | $34,780 | $40,500 | $50,930 |
| Oregon | $44,530 | $54,900 | $68,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $35,140 | $40,040 | $51,290 |
| Rhode Island | $38,270 | $44,380 | $58,990 |
| South Carolina | $35,500 | $42,120 | $51,060 |
| South Dakota | $37,220 | $46,170 | $56,800 |
| Tennessee | $35,550 | $41,920 | $55,430 |
| Texas | $35,920 | $45,900 | $59,260 |
| Utah | $37,860 | $48,140 | $63,130 |
| Vermont | $37,610 | $47,940 | $65,060 |
| Virginia | $36,260 | $44,610 | $59,030 |
| Washington | $47,270 | $58,900 | $79,090 |
| West Virginia | $30,490 | $38,210 | $48,460 |
| Wisconsin | $36,080 | $45,970 | $58,700 |
| Wyoming | $37,360 | $48,260 | $63,950 |
Source: Pharmacy Technicians, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Pharmacy Technicians
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 490,400 | 521,800 | 31,400 | 6.4% | 49,000 |
| Alabama | 8,740 | 9,580 | 850 | 9.7% | 920 |
| Alaska | 530 | 550 | 20 | 3.2% | 50 |
| Arizona | 11,360 | 13,460 | 2,100 | 18.5% | 1,340 |
| Arkansas | 4,680 | 5,200 | 520 | 11.1% | 500 |
| California | 40,200 | 43,500 | 3,300 | 8.2% | 4,130 |
| Colorado | 6,060 | 7,020 | 960 | 15.9% | 690 |
| Connecticut | 5,350 | 5,810 | 460 | 8.6% | 550 |
| Delaware | 1,280 | 1,390 | 100 | 8.2% | 130 |
| District of Columbia | 950 | 1,020 | 70 | 7% | 100 |
| Florida | 38,400 | 43,800 | 5,400 | 14% | 4,260 |
| Georgia | 15,290 | 16,850 | 1,560 | 10.2% | 1,610 |
| Hawaii | 1,790 | 1,790 | 0 | 0% | 160 |
| Idaho | 2,850 | 3,360 | 500 | 17.7% | 330 |
| Illinois | 22,960 | 24,640 | 1,680 | 7.3% | 2,320 |
| Indiana | 11,250 | 11,910 | 670 | 5.9% | 1,120 |
| Iowa | 4,550 | 5,070 | 520 | 11.3% | 490 |
| Kansas | 4,220 | 4,480 | 260 | 6.2% | 420 |
| Kentucky | 9,990 | 10,220 | 230 | 2.3% | 940 |
| Louisiana | 6,350 | 6,780 | 420 | 6.7% | 640 |
| Maine | 2,330 | 2,560 | 240 | 10.1% | 240 |
| Maryland | 8,150 | 8,710 | 560 | 6.8% | 820 |
| Massachusetts | 11,940 | 12,460 | 520 | 4.3% | 1,160 |
| Michigan | 14,720 | 15,550 | 830 | 5.6% | 1,460 |
| Minnesota | 7,050 | 7,610 | 550 | 7.9% | 720 |
| Mississippi | 3,720 | 3,990 | 270 | 7.3% | 380 |
| Missouri | 13,510 | 14,650 | 1,130 | 8.4% | 1,390 |
| Montana | 1,400 | 1,550 | 140 | 10.3% | 150 |
| Nebraska | 2,710 | 2,900 | 190 | 7% | 270 |
| Nevada | 4,100 | 4,640 | 540 | 13.2% | 450 |
| New Hampshire | 2,180 | 2,240 | 70 | 3.1% | 210 |
| New Jersey | 14,430 | 15,510 | 1,080 | 7.5% | 1,470 |
| New Mexico | 2,690 | 2,920 | 230 | 8.6% | 280 |
| New York | 25,970 | 26,840 | 870 | 3.3% | 2,480 |
| North Carolina | 16,760 | 18,200 | 1,440 | 8.6% | 1,730 |
| North Dakota | 920 | 1,030 | 110 | 12% | 100 |
| Ohio | 19,760 | 20,630 | 860 | 4.4% | 1,920 |
| Oklahoma | 5,120 | 5,430 | 300 | 5.9% | 510 |
| Oregon | 4,730 | 5,080 | 350 | 7.4% | 480 |
| Pennsylvania | 20,150 | 20,480 | 330 | 1.7% | 1,880 |
| Rhode Island | 1,740 | 1,670 | -70 | -3.8% | 150 |
| South Carolina | 8,260 | 9,560 | 1,310 | 15.8% | 940 |
| South Dakota | 1,280 | 1,430 | 140 | 11.1% | 140 |
| Tennessee | 12,210 | 13,040 | 830 | 6.8% | 1,230 |
| Texas | 39,450 | 45,810 | 6,360 | 16.1% | 4,500 |
| Utah | 5,430 | 6,420 | 990 | 18.2% | 640 |
| Vermont | 760 | 780 | 20 | 2% | 70 |
| Virginia | 10,210 | 10,580 | 370 | 3.6% | 970 |
| Washington | 8,390 | 8,850 | 460 | 5.4% | 870 |
| West Virginia | 3,650 | 3,810 | 160 | 4.3% | 350 |
| Wisconsin | 8,830 | 9,480 | 650 | 7.3% | 900 |
| Wyoming | 670 | 790 | 120 | 17.6% | 80 |
Source: Projections Central, 2024-2034
Video Snapshot: Top Online Pharmacy Tech Programs
