Iowa Pharmacy Technician Program

Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in IA

Here at Stepful, we have a 4-Month Iowa Pharmacy Technician program that prepares you to take the NHA CPhT certification exam. We offer career coaching plus an optional in-person externship around Iowa.

Spots are limited. We accept qualified applicants on a first come, first served basis.
Program Currently Not Available in This Region.
  • 4-Month Online IA Pharmacy Technician Course

  • Receive your National NHA-CPhT Certificate

  • 100% Online Followed by In-Person Externship

  • Job Interview Prep and Resume Services

  • 1:1 Support From Enrollment to Employment

  • Now Enrolling in Iowa!

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Get Your Pharmacy Technician Certification Online While in IA

If you’re looking to take the next step in your career by becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) in Iowa, Stepful’s online pharmacy technician program can help you achieve your goals.

Our Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) & National Healthcareer Association (NHA) approved program prepares you to earn your CPhT certification online, perform all the duties of pharmacy technicians, and find a job near you in Iowa after graduation.

Our Iowa pharmacy technician classes take 4 months to complete and cover essential topics such as pharmacology, prescriptions, pharmacy calculations, and more.

At Stepful, it's not just about getting certified; we are here to help students gain real world experience and land full time jobs. The Stepful staff is here to support you at every stage of the journey. From career preparedness to help finding an in-person externship*, we're here to help you launch your career in healthcare.
*Please note, students must be available M-F, 9-5 p.m. to be eligible for externship support.

4 months of online training
130 clinical hours
PTCB CPhT & NHA CPhT Certification Prep
75%
NHA Certification Pass Rate
+12 Points Above the National Average
Apply Now
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How to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in Iowa

Pharmacy technicians hold a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient management of medications. The Iowa Board of Pharmacy has established state requirements for certified pharmacy technicians to adhere to. Here are 5 essential steps you can take to start your journey as a pharmacy technician:
1

Graduate from High School or Complete Your GED

You must be at least 18 years old and either have a high school diploma or have completed your GED to start your career as a pharmacy technician. Moreover, Iowa students may have to undergo a criminal background check for licensure.

2

Enroll in and Complete a Pharmacy Technician Course

In Iowa, formal education is not mandatory for becoming a pharmacy technician; however, it is advisable to enroll in a pharmacy technician program to prepare for the PTCB exam. Some community colleges and vocational schools can be completed in about a year or less.

Make sure that the training program you select is accredited by the ASHP. At Stepful, we offer an accredited online pharmacy technician program that lasts four months. This program equips our students with the essential skills needed to succeed as a pharmacy technician in Iowa.

3

Complete a Pharmacy Technician Externship

After completing a pharmacy technician program, gaining hands-on experience is essential. Working under a pharmacist’s supervision helps you understand daily responsibilities and pharmacy operations. 

Stepful offers externships where students practice skills like patient interaction and medication dispensing. Alternatively, students can explore externships at local retail pharmacies like Walgreens or Rite Aid to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

4

Pass Your Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and NHA's ExCPT are the most widely recognized certification exams. These assessments effectively evaluate your knowledge and preparedness for the role of a pharmacy technician. 

At Stepful, we're proud of our students’ achievements; 75% of our graduates pass the national exam with confidence.

5

Search for Jobs

If you are searching for your dream job as a pharmacy technician in Iowa, there are several effective strategies you can use. Start by exploring popular online job platforms, pharmacy-specific job boards, and local healthcare facilities. 

For pharmacy technician students in Iowa, it is necessary to apply to the Iowa State Board of Pharmacy. Ensure that you select the appropriate form based on whether you are applying for on-the-job training or if you have completed formal education.

Apply Now
  • Get Hired as a Pharmacy Technician

    Our experienced coaches will help polish your resume, prepare you for interviews, and support you in your full-time job search in Iowa.

  • Pharmacy Tech Classes that Fit your Life

    Our Iowa pharmacy technician course is completely online and includes an optional in-person externship in IA. Part-time and evening classes are available.

  • Supportive Community

    We’re there for you every step of the way. Your instructor, coach, and peers will do whatever they can to help you succeed.
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It works

80% of graduates are employed as medical assistants within 3 months of graduation

Graduate our online medical assistant training program & find jobs at top healthcare companies—just like Stepful’s alumni.
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Monique
New Jersey, New Jersey
The reason I joined Stepful is to pursue my life-long dream of working in the medical field. And they made it happen!
Imani
Brooklyn, New York
This is the first time someone invests in me. Thank you Stepful for the leap of faith.
Juan
Queens, New York
Thank you Stepful for helping me land my dream job as a Medical Assistant in a Doctor's office. I wouldn’t have made it without you.
Jianee
Bronx, New York
Amazing school! Great learning environment! It allows you to apply your skills into the medical field.

Pharmacy Technician Classes at Your Own Schedule in Iowa

Learn online, part-time, and at your own schedule while in IA. Morning & evening classes are available. Get 1:1 support from enrollment to employment.

4 Months

Program length

Part Time

Morning & Evening Classes

$41,080

Average starting salary

NHA-CPhT

Certification

Stepful’s Pharmacy Technician program has received accreditation by ASHP! American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) is the only nationally-recognized pharmacy association that accredits pharmacy technician training programs in the United States. ASHP accreditation represents formal recognition of the high quality of services and care provided by Stepful’s Pharmacy Technician program.

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

Prepare for your certification exam and work with your Stepful coordinator to find a clinical externship at a convenient location.

Weeks 15-20

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.

Pick Your Start Date

You'll have two live classes per week and should plan
for 90 minutes of additional daily coursework.
*You'll select one of these class times after you sign up.
Apply Now

Requirements to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Iowa: Certification & Licensing

Pharmacy technicians in Iowa typically work under the supervision of a pharmacist. They are not authorized to verify prescriptions independently or offer medical advice. The Iowa Board of Pharmacy offers additional information about certification and licensure mandates.
1

Iowa Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements

Individuals looking to become pharmacy technicians in Iowa must complete the national pharmacy technician certification exam before gaining employment. Achieving certification as a pharmacy technician boosts your credibility, especially in highly motivated job markets. Holding this certification can also enhance your career advancement and offer various additional benefits.

2

Iowa Pharmacy Technician License Requirements

Pharmacy technicians in Iowa are required to register with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy. Not registering or failing to maintain certification can lead to disciplinary actions. To ensure compliance as a pharmacy technician in Iowa, it's important to regularly visit the Board of Pharmacy's website for the latest information and updates.

Iowa Pharmacy Technician Scope of Practice & Common Responsibilities

Iowa regulations detail the responsibilities of pharmacy technicians, making it essential for professionals in this field to understand their duties.

Pharmacy Technician Common Responsibilities in Iowa

Pharmacy technicians in Iowa are important to the effective functioning of pharmacy operations and provide support to pharmacists. Their key responsibilities involve a range of tasks that contribute to efficient service delivery in the pharmacy setting. Those duties include:

  • Stocking and organizing medications.
  • Receiving and verifying prescription orders from patients or healthcare providers.
  • Handling administrative tasks such as answering phones.
  • Greeting patients and answering basic concerns.

What Pharmacy Technicians Cannot Do in Iowa

According to Iowa's Administrative Rules, Pharmacy technicians are restricted to performing certain tasks outside their scope of practice. Those tasks include:

  • Conduct a drug use review.
  • Counsel or consult with patients on their prescriptions.
  • Make clinical decisions requiring pharmacists’ input.
  • Transfer prescription drug orders for controlled substances to another pharmacy.

Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians in Iowa

Salary: $41,080 per year

Average salary in Iowa

Job Outlook: 7%

Nationwide, From 2022 to 2023

Local # of Jobs: 4,480

As of May 2023

Becoming a pharmacy technician in Iowa can be a smart choice. It offers reasonable pay and chances to grow within the field. As more healthcare services are needed and the population ages, pharmacy technicians will be in high demand.

Iowa employs over 4,480 pharmacy technicians annually. Just doing a quick search online will showcase these jobs within the area. Whether you're looking to work at an acute care facility or remotely, there is a pharmacy technician job awaiting you!

In Iowa, the average salary is $41,080 per year, which breaks down to about $18.89 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

If you like hands-on work, pay attention to detail, and enjoy interacting with people, a pharmacy technician job might suit you well. Let Stepful help you start your new career today as a pharmacy technician.

Professional Organizations for Pharmacy Technicians in Iowa

As a pharmacy technician in Iowa getting involved with professional organizations is a great way to stay informed about the pharmacy trends.

Iowa Pharmacy Association (IPA): The IPA supports pharmacy technicians by providing essential information on state pharmacy laws.

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): This national organization offers certification and valuable resources to help them achieve their professional dreams.

National Healthcareer Association (NHA): This association provides career advancement resources and continuing education courses, ensuring you have everything you need to advance in your profession.

National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): The NPTA offers memberships for continuing education and access to other pharmacy technicians.

Apply Now
Pay
with a loan
$166*
per month for 12 months
Pay $59 to secure your spot now.

Once the class starts, you will pay $166* per month.
Pay
as you go
$249*
every 2 weeks over 8 payments
Pay $59 to secure your spot now.

Once the class starts, you will pay $249 every two weeks over 8 payments.
0% interest

Resources for Aspiring
Pharmacy Technicians

Pharmacy Technician Program FAQs

What is Stepful?

Stepful provides online training for healthcare careers, including pharmacy technicians. We are on a mission to create economic opportunity for 1 million job seekers in healthcare.

What is included in Stepful’s Iowa pharmacy technician program tuition?
Tuition includes online instructor-led Zoom classes, clinical sessions, PTCB & NHA certification exam prep, dedicated 1:1 coaching and job support services. Exam fees are not included in your tuition.
What is the refund policy?
A student who cancels before the first week of class receives a refund with tuition paid to date with the exception of the $59 non-refundable registration fee. Thereafter, the student who cancels receives a prorated refund.
What are the requirements to enroll in your Iowa pharmacy technician training program?
You need a copy of your high school diploma or GED and a stable internet connection.
What pharmacy technician certifications do you prepare me for?
Our classes prepare you to test for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s Certified Pharmacy Technician exam (CPhT). You will also be prepared to take the National Healthcareer Association's Certified Pharmacy Technician exam (ExCPT).
Is the program online or in-person?

The Pharmacy Technician program is 100% online and is followed by a 130-hour, in-person, unpaid clinical externship near you around Iowa. Stepful has partnerships with pharmacies across the nation and will do its best to find a convenient location for you.

Do you help graduates find a job?

Yes! After you pass the certification exam and complete your in-person externship, our experienced coaches will help polish your resume, prepare you for interviews, and support you in your full-time job search in Iowa.

Do you have a partnership with the National Healthcareer Association?
Yes! Our program is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), a leading credentialing organization in the healthcare industry. Our status as an NHA-Recognized Education/Training Program ensures your full preparation for the NHA Certified Pharmacy Technician (ExCPT) exam.
What tuition payment options are available?
Students have the options to pay upfront or in installments with a flexible payment plan. Stepful offers partial scholarships, reach out to our admissions team for more information.

FAQs About Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Iowa

What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in Iowa?

The median salary for pharmacy technicians in Iowa is $41,080 per year or $18.89 per hour.

Here is a full list of pharmacy technician salaries in Iowa cities:

  • Ames, IA – $36,240  ($17.42)
  • Cedar Rapids, IA – $37,870 ($18.21)
  • Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL –  $37,430 ($18)
  • Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA – $40,600  ($19.52)
  • Dubuque, IA – $36,150 ($17.38)
  • Iowa City, IA – $40,390 ($19.42)
  • Sioux City, IA-NE-SD – $37,830 ($18.19)
  • Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IA – $37,320  ($17.94)
How do pharmacy technician salaries in Iowa stack up to other locations?

The median pharmacy technician salary nationally is $37,790. Pharmacy technicians in Iowa make slightly less than that at $41,080.

What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Iowa?
Pharmacy technician jobs are projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032 nationwide. This is slightly higher than the national average of 5% but lower than other health technologists and technician jobs (7%).
What are the education requirements for pharmacy technicians in Iowa?
To begin a career as a pharmacy technician in Iowa, you must earn your certification and register with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy. You must also disclose any criminal convictions prior to working as a pharmacy technician.
Do I need a license to work as a pharmacy technician in Iowa?
To begin a career as a pharmacy technician in Iowa, a person must earn their certification and register with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy. Applicants must also disclose any criminal convictions prior to working as a pharmacy technician.
Where can a pharmacy technician work in Iowa?

Pharmacy technicians in Iowa typically work in retail pharmacies and pharmacies in hospitals. Nationally, around 52% of pharmacy technicians work in pharmacies and drug retailers while 16% work in hospitals.

Your new Pharmacy Technician career starts here

Get 1:1 Support From Enrollment to Employment
Spots are limited. We accept qualified applicants on a first come, first served basis.
Program Currently Not Available in This Region.
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  • 4-Month Online Pharmacy Technician Course

  • Receive your National NHA-CPhT Certificate

  • 100% Online Followed by In-Person Externship

  • Job Interview Prep and Resume Services

  • 1:1 Support From Enrollment to Employment