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Prepare to take the NHA or PTCE national certification exam
100% online followed by in-person externship
Job interview prep and resume services
ASHP/ACPE-accredited program
1:1 support from enrollment to employment
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What You’ll Learn
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Weeks 1-4
Learn the foundational healthcare knowledge you need to become a well-rounded pharmacy technician and start diving into pharmacy practice.
Weeks 5-9
Master the ins and outs of pharmacology and get hands-on with pharmacy calculations and prescription medications.
Weeks 10-14
Develop skills in processing and dispensing prescriptions, and prepare for the NHA ExCPT Exam with mock tests and a comprehensive review of key pharmacy concepts.
Weeks 15+
Apply everything you learned online and earn clinical hours in a pharmacy setting. Our experienced coaches will help polish your resume, prepare you for interviews, and support you in your full-time job search.
Online Pharmacy Tech classes at your own schedule
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01
Meet Age and Educational Requirements
Candidates must be at least 17 years old and are expected to undergo a thorough criminal background check, which costs about $40.00.
While a high school diploma or GED is not mandated by the Alabama Board of Pharmacy, having one can enhance your employment prospects.
02
Enroll in and Complete a Pharmacy Technician Course
To work as a pharmacy technician in Alabama, you must enroll in a training program approved by the Alabama Board of Pharmacy. All newly licensed technicians are required to complete a Board-approved training program within the first six months after their registration.
However, while earning a Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification can enhance your credentials, it is not mandatory to practice as a pharmacy technician in Alabama.
After completing your training, register as a pharmacy technician with the Alabama Board of Pharmacy. This process involves submitting an application along with required documents such as a birth certificate or U.S. passport, driver's license, and a recent photograph.
To maintain your registration and stay updated with industry standards, engage in continuing education opportunities. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures you remain a competent and valuable member of the healthcare team.
03
Complete a Pharmacy Technician Externship
Some programs in Alabama may require an externship to provide hands-on experience. Many local retail pharmacies offer opportunities for students to gain real-world practice.
The duration of other programs typically ranges from several months to a year, depending on the institution. Stepful’s online program prepares you for the pharmacy technician certification in 4 months and includes in-person externships along with career mentoring to help you transition into the workforce.
04
Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam
Certain pharmacy technician programs in Alabama may require students to complete an externship to gain practical, hands-on experience. Many local retail pharmacies provide opportunities for students to develop essential skills in a real-world setting.
Program durations can vary, typically lasting from a few months to a year, depending on the institution. Stepful’s online program is designed to prepare students for pharmacy technician certification in just four months and includes in-person externships, along with career mentoring, to support a smooth transition into the workforce.
05
Search for Jobs
In Alabama, job seekers can explore opportunities through online job board platforms such as the State of Alabama Personnel Department, the Alabama Hospital Association, as well as job listings from local hospitals, pharmacies, and major job boards.
Networking is also a valuable tool for discovering job openings and gaining insights from industry professionals. To make a strong impression, emphasize your certifications, hands-on training, and passion for the role when applying.
At Stepful, our career coaches offer personalized support, including job search strategies and resume optimization, to help you land a fulfilling pharmacy technician position.
Although national certification is not mandatory in Alabama, obtaining it can significantly enhance your career opportunities. Certifications from organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) validate your knowledge, skills, and commitment to the profession.
Becoming certified can also increase job prospects, improve salary potential, and open doors to specialized roles in hospital and clinical pharmacy settings.
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To work as a pharmacy tech in Alabama, you must obtain a state license. To do so you must enroll in a Board-approved training program and complete it within six months of registration. Once finished, you are required to submit proof of completion within 10 days.
Additionally, both you and the pharmacy must maintain these records for at least two years as proof of compliance. If you fail to meet these requirements, your license could be revoked or there may be some disciplinary action. Ensuring timely completion and proper documentation is essential for maintaining your eligibility to work in Alabama.
Alabama employs approximately 8,340 pharmacy technicians, with a relative standard error (RSE) of 2.1%. Based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average certified pharmacy technician salary in Alabama is $37,030 annually, corresponding to an average hourly wage of $17.35.
Across the country, the demand for pharmacy technicians is projected to rise by 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. In Alabama, job opportunities in this field are expected to remain stable due to an aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services.
Pharmacy technicians in Alabama can explore diverse work settings beyond retail pharmacies and hospitals. Opportunities exist in long-term care facilities, pharmaceutical companies, and research organizations, providing a dynamic career path with room for specialization.
In addition to competitive pay, pharmacy technician roles in Alabama often come with flexible scheduling options, including both full-time and part-time positions. Many employers also provide benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, making this profession an appealing choice for those seeking stability and career growth in the healthcare sector.
With a steady job market and opportunities for advancement, becoming a pharmacy technician in Alabama is a promising career path for individuals interested in healthcare and patient support.
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$37,030
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+
7% Growth
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8,340
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Joining professional organizations can be a valuable step in advancing your career as a pharmacy technician. These associations offer access to continuing education, networking opportunities, and industry resources to support your professional growth. Consider connecting with:
- Alabama Pharmacy Association (APA): This association offers resources, continuing education, and networking opportunities for pharmacy professionals in Alabama.
- Alabama Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ALSHP): This organization supports pharmacy professionals working in health-system settings, such as hospitals and clinics, by offering resources, continuing education, and networking opportunities.
- National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): The NPTA provides certification courses, career services, and industry updates to support pharmacy technicians nationwide.
- American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT): This national organization provides continuing education, networking opportunities, and advocates for pharmacy technicians' roles and responsibilities.
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