Inside Online Pharmacy Tech Programs
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.
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Pharmacy TechPharmacy OperationsSadie Black is a certified and licensed pharmacy technician with an Associate of Science degree in Pharmacy Technician and a pre-major in pharmacy study. She holds state certification and national licensure from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Sadie has experience working as a lead pharmacy technician in both chain and independent pharmacy settings. She is also a member of the National Pharmacy Tech Association.
Sadie Black, Pharmacy Tech
Sadie Black is a certified and licensed pharmacy technician with an Associate of Science degree in Pharmacy Technician and a pre-major in pharmacy study. She holds state certification and national licensure from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Sadie has experience working as a lead pharmacy technician in both chain and independent pharmacy settings. She is also a member of the National Pharmacy Tech Association.
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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.
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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.
Before Choosing a Program
Even after exploring a few programs, deciding which one is right for you can still be challenging. Before setting out on a certain path, ask yourself the following five questions to make sure your choice aligns with both your current needs and future goals.
- What is my career goal?
- How much time and money can I invest in my education?
- What are the job market requirements in my area?
- Do I plan to continue my education in the future?
- Do I want a broader education experience?
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. Most begin as entry-level pharmacy technicians, gaining foundational skills through on-the-job training or a college course. The next step is earning certification as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) by passing an exam like the PTCB, which demonstrates professional expertise. Advanced pharmacy technicians represent the third level, specializing in areas such as sterile compounding or informatics. The highest level is the lead pharmacy technician, who oversees training, manages inventory, and may handle specialized operations. Each level builds on the last, offering opportunities for growth and leadership.
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. A sterile compounding certification is ideal for those interested in preparing medications like IVs or injections in sterile environments like hospitals and clinicals. The medical therapy management certification is best for those who want to work directly with pharmacists, optimizing medication use and improving patient outcomes. Finally, the hazardous drug management certification 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. First off, certification demonstrates your expertise and professionalism, making you a stronger candidate for jobs and increasing your earning potential. 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. Certification can also open doors to advanced roles, such as specialized pharmacy areas or supervisory positions. Additionally, it provides opportunities for professional growth and continuing education, keeping your skills sharp. Overall, being certified enhances your career stability, credibility, and long-term opportunities in the field.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Career Institute | Online Certificate | $979 total |
| San Francisco State University | Online Certificate | $1,499 total |
| American National University | Online Associate Degree | $36,672 total |
| Western Nevada College | Online Course | $2,995 total |
| Piedmont Community College | Online Course | $180 registration fee |
| Washington Technical Institute | Online Certificate | $899 total |
| The City College of New York | Online Certificate | $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. 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).
Certified pharmacy technicians (CPhTs) are trusted to perform critical tasks, including accurately preparing prescriptions, managing inventory, and supporting pharmacists in patient care. Certification also opens doors to specialized roles, higher pay, and career advancement opportunities. Additionally, it ensures pharmacy techs are well-versed in safety protocols and legal regulations, reducing errors and improving patient outcomes.
Certification can be a valuable investment for aspiring pharmacy techs, enhancing their credibility and career prospects, all while providing a strong foundation for success in the field.
Salary & Career Outlook for Pharmacy Techs
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $35,100 | $43,460 | $59,450 |
| Alabama | $30,830 | $37,690 | $48,190 |
| Alaska | $38,650 | $50,440 | $64,600 |
| Arizona | $37,650 | $47,620 | $60,350 |
| Arkansas | $30,290 | $37,380 | $47,030 |
| California | $38,850 | $49,640 | $79,630 |
| Connecticut | $36,570 | $44,190 | $61,060 |
| Delaware | $35,210 | $43,470 | $52,140 |
| District of Columbia | $39,220 | $45,670 | $71,890 |
| Florida | $35,460 | $39,640 | $50,620 |
| Georgia | $32,090 | $38,390 | $51,150 |
| Hawaii | $36,960 | $45,380 | $59,950 |
| Idaho | $36,940 | $45,210 | $58,570 |
| Illinois | $35,670 | $44,610 | $55,410 |
| Indiana | $35,570 | $40,020 | $49,720 |
| Iowa | $34,880 | $41,380 | $52,530 |
| Kansas | $32,360 | $39,210 | $51,390 |
| Kentucky | $30,240 | $37,630 | $50,060 |
| Louisiana | $31,300 | $38,700 | $49,100 |
| Maine | $35,220 | $40,950 | $52,500 |
| Maryland | $35,470 | $43,100 | $59,480 |
| Massachusetts | $35,600 | $44,640 | $63,010 |
| Michigan | $34,550 | $40,040 | $51,180 |
| Minnesota | $37,780 | $48,560 | $59,970 |
| Mississippi | $31,190 | $38,210 | $47,220 |
| Missouri | $30,630 | $37,990 | $51,160 |
| Montana | $37,370 | $46,980 | $58,470 |
| Nebraska | $34,600 | $41,400 | $49,570 |
| Nevada | $36,280 | $46,670 | $60,400 |
| New Hampshire | $36,180 | $45,300 | $57,090 |
| New Jersey | $34,190 | $38,890 | $57,010 |
| New Mexico | $36,460 | $44,970 | $55,950 |
| New York | $35,390 | $40,840 | $62,250 |
| North Carolina | $35,230 | $39,870 | $51,940 |
| North Dakota | $37,690 | $47,600 | $58,990 |
| Ohio | $33,610 | $37,860 | $52,130 |
| Oklahoma | $31,920 | $38,200 | $48,990 |
| Oregon | $42,940 | $51,210 | $65,320 |
| Pennsylvania | $33,860 | $37,560 | $49,770 |
| Rhode Island | $37,210 | $37,730 | $54,070 |
| South Carolina | $34,360 | $38,960 | $49,800 |
| South Dakota | $35,990 | $43,760 | $51,930 |
| Tennessee | $32,200 | $38,130 | $49,410 |
| Texas | $35,200 | $43,920 | $55,350 |
| Utah | $36,650 | $46,760 | $60,250 |
| Vermont | $37,720 | $46,050 | $56,800 |
| Virginia | $35,510 | $42,490 | $57,530 |
| Washington | $45,550 | $56,140 | $74,370 |
| West Virginia | $29,890 | $37,370 | $49,270 |
| Wisconsin | $35,170 | $43,620 | $55,200 |
| Wyoming | $34,820 | $46,490 | $60,600 |
Source: Pharmacy Technicians, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 459,600 | 485,500 | 25,900 | 5.60% | 44,900 |
| Alabama | 7,590 | 8,330 | 740 | 9.70% | 790 |
| Alaska | 520 | 550 | 30 | 5.80% | 50 |
| Arizona | 11,550 | 14,370 | 2,820 | 24.40% | 1,440 |
| Arkansas | 4,520 | 5,090 | 570 | 12.60% | 490 |
| California | 41,300 | 45,400 | 4,100 | 9.90% | 4,290 |
| Colorado | 5,920 | 6,880 | 960 | 16.20% | 670 |
| Connecticut | 4,120 | 4,700 | 580 | 14.10% | 450 |
| Delaware | 1,170 | 1,310 | 140 | 12.00% | 130 |
| District of Columbia | 760 | 850 | 90 | 11.80% | 80 |
| Florida | 38,950 | 45,030 | 6,080 | 15.60% | 4,370 |
| Georgia | 13,490 | 15,820 | 2,330 | 17.30% | 1,540 |
| Idaho | 2,350 | 3,070 | 720 | 30.60% | 310 |
| Illinois | 21,970 | 23,170 | 1,200 | 5.50% | 2,140 |
| Indiana | 10,470 | 10,870 | 400 | 3.80% | 990 |
| Iowa | 4,740 | 5,300 | 560 | 11.80% | 510 |
| Kansas | 4,500 | 4,920 | 420 | 9.30% | 460 |
| Kentucky | 9,880 | 10,620 | 740 | 7.50% | 990 |
| Louisiana | 6,420 | 7,010 | 590 | 9.20% | 660 |
| Maine | 2,160 | 2,270 | 110 | 5.10% | 210 |
| Maryland | 8,090 | 8,980 | 890 | 11.00% | 850 |
| Massachusetts | 3,220 | 3,510 | 290 | 9.00% | 330 |
| Michigan | 15,250 | 15,600 | 350 | 2.30% | 1,420 |
| Minnesota | 8,270 | 8,900 | 630 | 7.60% | 830 |
| Mississippi | 3,990 | 4,280 | 290 | 7.30% | 400 |
| Missouri | 9,740 | 11,010 | 1,270 | 13.00% | 1,060 |
| Montana | 1,330 | 1,540 | 210 | 15.80% | 150 |
| Nebraska | 2,680 | 2,920 | 240 | 9.00% | 280 |
| Nevada | 4,360 | 4,940 | 580 | 13.30% | 470 |
| New Hampshire | 2,170 | 2,280 | 110 | 5.10% | 210 |
| New Jersey | 12,350 | 13,340 | 990 | 8.00% | 1,250 |
| New Mexico | 2,670 | 3,130 | 460 | 17.20% | 310 |
| New York | 21,570 | 21,920 | 350 | 1.60% | 40 |
| North Carolina | 16,590 | 18,860 | 2,270 | 13.70% | 1,810 |
| North Dakota | 840 | 970 | 130 | 15.50% | 90 |
| Ohio | 16,480 | 17,180 | 700 | 4.20% | 1,580 |
| Oklahoma | 5,300 | 5,780 | 480 | 9.10% | 540 |
| Oregon | 4,460 | 4,770 | 310 | 7.00% | 450 |
| Pennsylvania | 20,180 | 21,430 | 1,250 | 6.20% | 1,990 |
| Rhode Island | 1,650 | 1,880 | 230 | 13.90% | 180 |
| South Carolina | 7,690 | 9,800 | 2,110 | 27.40% | 990 |
| South Dakota | 1,170 | 1,310 | 140 | 12.00% | 120 |
| Tennessee | 11,720 | 12,910 | 1,190 | 10.20% | 1,220 |
| Texas | 35,610 | 42,980 | 7,370 | 20.70% | 4,260 |
| Utah | 4,470 | 5,460 | 990 | 22.10% | 540 |
| Vermont | 920 | 970 | 50 | 5.40% | 90 |
| Virgin Islands | 70 | 70 | – | 0.00% | 10 |
| Virginia | 10,590 | 11,500 | 910 | 8.60% | 1,080 |
| Washington | 8,590 | 9,210 | 620 | 7.20% | 920 |
| West Virginia | 3,540 | 3,570 | 30 | 0.80% | 320 |
| Wisconsin | 8,190 | 8,980 | 790 | 9.60% | 850 |
| Wyoming | 600 | 710 | 110 | 18.30% | 70 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Today’s Best Online Pharmacy Tech Programs
With so many online pharmacy tech programs now available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices. To help, we’ve identified the best schools and programs for aspiring pharmacy technicians looking for a flexible and affordable higher education. The following schools represent some of the best programs available, with the accreditation you need to begin a rewarding career as a pharmacy tech. See who is leading the way.
Southwestern Oregon Community College
Coos Bay, ORProgram Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,534 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southwestern Oregon Community College
- The Pharmacy Technician program offers an optional 80-hour clinical externship, providing valuable hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
- Students have access to 24/7 instructor support, online mentoring, and engaging labs with animated simulations to enhance learning and skills development.
- The program includes a secure student portal that offers career guidance, resume writing support, and resources to assist with job placement and professional advancement.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,534 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,193 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Allen County Community College
- Allen Community College's Pharmacy Technician program is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), ensuring graduates are well-prepared and recognized by employers.
- The program offers flexible online course options, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments effectively.
- Students benefit from transferable credits toward further education, enabling seamless continuation to higher degrees if desired.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,193 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Alaska Anchorage
Anchorage, AKProgram Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,515 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Alaska Anchorage
- The Pharmacy Technology program at UAA is recognized as a Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) recognized education/training program, preparing students for national certification and credentialing.
- Students benefit from a focused 16-credit curriculum designed to equip them with essential skills in prescription processing, pharmacology, calculations, and professional pharmacy practices ensuring job readiness in various healthcare settings.
- The program offers a direct pathway to employment with experienced pharmacist instructors and aligns with opportunities for apprenticeships providing wage increases, mentorship, and practical work experience alongside coursework.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,515 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,245 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Casper College
- The Casper College Pharmacy Technology program offers diverse experiential training sites across Wyoming, including hospitals, retail outlets, long-term care, nuclear, and compounding pharmacies, providing extensive hands-on experience.
- It is the only accredited pharmacy technician program in Wyoming available both online and on campus, with the option to complete the certificate in as few as 10 months, supporting flexible and accelerated learning.
- Students must maintain a technician-in-training license and meet clinical agency requirements like immunizations and drug screenings, ensuring professional readiness and high standards for clinical placement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,245 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
North Dakota State College of Science
Wahpeton, NDProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,838 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected North Dakota State College of Science
- The NDSCS Pharmacy Technician program boasts a 100 percent job placement rate since its inception in 1994, demonstrating strong employer demand and graduate success.
- The program includes both classroom and extensive practical laboratory experience covering community, institutional pharmacy practice, sterile product preparation, and inventory management, providing hands-on skills critical for workplace readiness.
- Graduates are eligible to register with the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy and take national certification exams, ensuring they meet licensure requirements and increasing their employability in various pharmacy settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,838 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,109 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lakeshore Technical College
- The Pharmacy Technician program offers live, interactive TV classes accessible from local technical colleges or home computers, providing flexible learning options for students.
- The program includes hands-on training in compounding sterile and nonsterile medications alongside practical skills in procurement, billing, reimbursement, and inventory management.
- Lakeshore College credits transfer to over 30 universities, facilitating advanced education and career advancement opportunities for graduates.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,109 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Barton County Community College
Great Bend, KSProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,334 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Barton County Community College
- Barton Community College’s Pharmacy Technician program offers a 100% online lecture format with a flexible internship at approved pharmacy sites, enabling students to gain real-world experience without commuting for classes.
- Students can complete the program in as little as two semesters, allowing for a rapid transition into the workforce and quicker entry into the pharmacy technician career field.
- The program provides financial aid opportunities for eligible students, making it more accessible and affordable for a wide range of prospective students.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,334 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, NCProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Central Piedmont Community College
- The Piedmont Community College Pharmacy Technician program offers a 12-week, 192-hour asynchronous online format, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace for maximum scheduling flexibility.
- The program prepares students comprehensively for industry-recognized certification exams, including the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Exam and the National Healthcareer Association (ExCPT) exam, ensuring readiness and credentialing upon completion.
- Piedmont CC emphasizes practical skills such as sterile product compounding, aseptic techniques, and pharmacy calculations, equipping students with hands-on competencies highly valued by employers and critical for clinical pharmacy settings.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,647 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,384 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lamar Institute of Technology
- The Pharmacy Technician program at LIT offers a voucher covering the fee for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), reducing overall certification costs for students.
- Students have the option to complete a 130-hour hands-on Clinical Experience, providing valuable real-world practice aligned with state board requirements.
- The curriculum includes an online lab module with practical experience in processing orders and medication dosing, enhancing skill readiness before entering the workforce.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,384 Avg. Aid Amount
- 35% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,763 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 25/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Vincennes University
- The Vincennes University Pharmacy Technology program is nationally accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), ensuring education that meets the highest national standards and real-world readiness.
- Students in the Pharmacy Technology program are guaranteed clinical placement through affiliated agencies, supported by a rigorous admissions process including criminal history and drug screening to ensure eligibility and professional standards.
- The program prepares students not only for entry-level technician roles but also for entry-level management responsibilities in pharmacy settings, enhancing career advancement opportunities beyond basic technician skills.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,763 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 25/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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