Pharmacy Technology, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science Degree: (PAT-AAS)
College Certificate: (PAT-CERT)

About the Program

The Pharmacy Technology Associate of Applied Science degree and College Certificate programs are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in general pharmaceutical services under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. The pharmacy technician’s responsibilities may include the preparation of medicines and assisting the pharmacist with the dispensing of medicines in accordance with standard procedures, laws, transcription of physicians orders, preparation of intravenous medications, maintaining inventory and patient profiles, and preparing bulk formulations.

The Pharmacy Technology Associate of Applied Science degree is a two-year degree program that allows for transfer to a four-year institution that offers a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmaceutical sciences. Students may choose to complete the certificate program accredited by the American Society of Health System Pharmacists and Accreditation Council of Pharmacy Education, secure employment, and/or continue their education.

This Program Offers:

• Associate of Applied Science: 89 credit hours
• College Certificate: 35 credit hours

Program Goals

• To teach students the policies and procedures governing hospital, retail and industrial pharmacy, to function and perform routine technical and clerical duties as a certified Pharmacy Technician

Program Outcomes

• Students will be able to demonstrate and apply knowledge of scientific concepts of anatomy, physiology and pharmacology as a pharmacy technician
• Students must pass coursework with a score of 80% or higher in order to be placed at clinical sites
• Perform accurate mathematical calculations necessary for the preparation and dispensing of a pharmaceutical product
• Effectively use computer software and technology, relevant to the pharmacy professional, to gather data, produce documents and process orders
• Effective use of written, oral and interpersonal communication skills when interacting with a diverse population of healthcare professionals and patients
• Understand, articulate and adhere to all ethical standards, moral and legal practices governing the profession
• The student may choose to take the national certification exam given by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board as an option

College Certificate Goals

• To provide students a foundation into the policies and procedures governing pharmacies, to function and perform routine technical and clerical duties as a Pharmacist Technician

College Certificate Outcomes

• Students will proficiently pass coursework with a score of 80% or higher in order to be placed at clinical sites
• Perform accurate mathematical calculations necessary for the preparation and dispensing of a pharmaceutical product
• Effectively use computer software and technology, relevant to the pharmacy profession, to gather data, produce documents and process orders
• Effective use of written, oral and interpersonal communication skills when interacting with a diverse population of healthcare professionals and patients

Admission Requirements

Admission is competitive and based on academic performance, test scores and personal interviews. A limited number of students are admitted to the program each semester. Applications and other required information must be submitted prior to the start of class. Formal admission status must be achieved prior to enrollment. To be admitted into the Pharmacy Technology Program, students must complete the following:

• Fulfill all WCCCD admission requirements
• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Declare program intent on the WCCCD Admission Application or change program intent in the campus Admissions Office
• Complete the Pharmacy Technician Admission Application and turn in the application to the program director
• Fulfill course placement requirements based on the ACCUPLACER^® Test
• Submit two letters of reference: professional or personal
• Show proof of TB test
• Meet with a Pharmacy Technology Program representative
• Fulfill either of the following prerequisites:
  Pass Pharmacy Technician Assessment Test (PTAT) with a score of 85% or higher
  -OR-
  Pass PHT 100  with a grade of “B” or better
• Successfully complete a criminal background check. (Source will be specified)
• Successfully pass a drug screening exam (Source will be specified)

Degree Requirements

• Students must complete all course work with a grade of “C” or better to meet graduation requirements