What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is a health care professional who works in a hospital or community pharmacy setting under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Their primary role is to assist pharmacists in the safe and accurate preparation and dispensing of medications. They are an essential pharmacy team member who works with many different health care professionals. Some responsibilities may include medication compounding and dispensing, prescription processing, inventory management, customer service and insurance processing.

About the Training Program

The goals of this ASHP/ACPE accredited status program are to provide comprehensive training to prepare for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam and produce job-ready pharmacy technicians to serve the community with the highest standards for safety and patient care. Enrolled students will be employees of University Health as paid Registered Pharmacy Technician Trainees.

This 480—hour training will include the education to confidently perform high-quality patient care and medication safety. The program is separated into four sections that generally occur Monday - Friday during daytime hours.

Benefits of being a Certified Pharmacy Technician

• Opportunity to build a career as a health care professional
• Demand for pharmacy technicians exceeds the current supply
  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 5% projected growth in pharmacy technician jobs from 2021 to 2031
  • Upon successful program completion, graduates have the potential opportunity to work at University Health
• Last several years have seen consistent increase in workforce demand and hourly wage
  • Hourly wage in 2021: $17.66 per hour and $36,740 annually
  • Hourly wage in 2022: $19.35 per hour and $40,260 annually

Program Admission Requirements

The applicant must submit a completed application to PharmTech@uhtx.com by the deadline

Additional Program Requirements (do not need to submit documentation):

• U.S. social security number
• Must be at least 18 years old and have a copy of high school diploma or GED
• Personal email address
• Home address
• Access to computer and internet from home
• Pass background check and drug screen
• Participation in on-site interview and complete a reading and math assessment
• Meet all HR eligibility requirements for employment at University Health

Current University Health employees who wish to apply for the Pharmacy Technician Training Program must meet the following criteria:

• Be in good standing with no formal disciplinary actions in the last two years (Group A, B or C).
• Have at least six months in their current position.
• Meet all standard program requirements.

Student Financial Obligation

Financial aid for program fees is unavailable.

Application Deadlines

Professional Requirements/Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Requirements

University Health Pharmacy Technician Training Program provides education and experience to students to prepare for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and to be successful certified pharmacy technicians.

Texas State Board of Pharmacy requirements (to be completed by the end of the program):

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
• Achieve a passing score on the Pharmacy Technician, Certification Exam (PTCE)
• Full disclosure of all criminal and State Board of Pharmacy registration or disciplinary actions
• Compliance with all applicable PTCB certification policies

Student Testimonials

"This program has provided me with wonderful opportunities to work within such a great company. The instructors found ways to make learning fun and engaging throughout the program. Everyone was extremely friendly and easy to talk to as well if you ever need help. I would highly recommend the program." – Lauren A., RPhT (Class of September 2024)

"The pharmacy technician program provided me with an excellent foundation for my career. The instructors were incredibly supportive and prepared me well for both the certification exam and the workplace. I am so glad I chose this program—the curriculum was thorough and enjoyable, and I feel completely prepared. I would highly recommend it to anyone." -Samantha V., RPhT (Class of Summer 2025)

"I never would have expected this program to make as big of an impact on my life as it did. Throughout the process, I learned so much about both the pharmacy world and myself. I felt like I was stuck in life with no idea what direction to take it in, but after learning how vast the pharmacy world is and the opportunities available for technicians, I feel like I will never run out of options. I love working in a field that is passionate about our community's wellbeing and promotes continuous growth." -Margo B., RPhT (Class of Spring 2025)

Direct questions to: PharmTech@uhtx.com

Program Director
Adrian O’Prey, MA, CPhT-Adv

Program Instructors
Omar Lara, CPhT
Gracie Cantu, CPhT