Pharmacy Technology

Program Code: SAC.PHAR.AS

Program Control Number: 04230

In addition to the general education requirement, the associate degree includes the full-spectrum training required for employment in all pharmacy practice settings. Upon completion of the associate degree, graduates will meet the academic training requirements for licensing with the California State Board of Pharmacy. Graduates will also be well prepared for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam.

The major course requirements for the associate degree consists of the same 20.0 units of coursework listed in the Basic Certificate option, including the 2.0 units outpatient externship rotation. In addition to completing two additional academic courses (PHAR 057 and PHAR 060), students choosing the associate degree must perform 200 additional hours (3 additional units) of externship, involving rotations in inpatient and sterile products pharmacy services. Students will be placed in the hospital and/or home infusion setting to complete these rotations. Background checks, health screenings, and/or drug testing will be required prior to lab classes. Any required investigations are done at the student’s expense. Students are expected to understand and agree to abide by the Program Guidelines, which include technician standards and essential functions for pharmacy technicians.

The associate degree is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Students must complete each required course with a grade of “C” or better ( 0.5 unit of PHAR 060L or other L-series lab classes and externship with a grade of “P”) to qualify for the the degree option.

All courses are required to be completed within a 3-year period to be eligible for Pharmacy Technology program enrollment and certificate/degree.

Learning Outcome(s):

1. Apply for the California Board of Pharmacy licensing as a Pharmacy Technician in a timely manner.
2. Construct an effectiveresume for Pharmacy Technician job interviews, highlighting your advanced technical skills and Associates of Science in Pharmacy Technology.
3. Apply for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Exam and complete successfully.