---
title: Pharmacy Technician Training
url: "https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/in-depth-with-pharmacy-technician-training/"
type: post
date_published: 2015-10-20
date_modified: 2026-04-10
schema:
  @type: Article
language: en-US
word_count: 775
reading_time: 4 min
canonical: "https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/in-depth-with-pharmacy-technician-training/"
categories:
  - AZC Healthcare Programs
topic:
  - Pharmacy Technician
---

# Pharmacy Technician Training

![What Is A Pharmacy Technician Arizona College Allied Health](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/What-Is-A-Pharmacy-Tech-Arizona-College-Allied-Health.jpg.webp?w=1024)

Pharmacy Technicians are in demand as the world of medicine continues to evolve,
as [BLS](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacy-technicians.htm) projects a
6% job growth outlook from 2022 through 2032, which is faster than average.
Those seeking
[Pharmacy Technician Training](https://www.arizonacollege.edu/all-programs/pharmacy-technician/)
will enjoy a balanced and diverse set of responsibilities ranging from medical,
customer service and administrative duties. But before you settle into the field
of a pharmacy technician, you need the proper training, certification, and
licensing in order to supply those in need with their proper medicine.

Read on for some in-depth info on Arizona College’s Pharmacy Technician training
process.

**Hands-On Course Training**

Learning the expertise required to enter a new field involves a theoretical
understanding of medical info and lab equipment, as well as hands-on training
from pharmacy technicians.

At [Arizona College](https://www.arizonacollege.edu/), our students learn in
facilities outfitted with the industry standard lab equipment like ointment
slabs, prescription balances, laminar flow holds, counting trays, pill crushers
and plenty of other teaching aids — all from the guidance of seasoned
instructors.

A large part of a Pharmacy Technician’s job is to facilitate orders and
communications using Pharmacy Management Software. Students who complete our
Pharmacy Technician training bring with them skills in software similar to what
is used by pharmacies nationwide. In the event something isn’t clicking, we
offer open lab and tutoring sessions by appointment to ensure you have a firm
grasp of all material as you progress through training.

**Real World Experience **

Our Pharmacy Technician training course takes three quarters to complete. All
students who complete the on-campus part of training will participate in an
off-campus clinical externship portion for the last quarter of the program. In
total, the program takes around 34 weeks to finish. Taking the theoretical and
hands-on knowledge you’ll gain in the first three quarters of Pharmacy
Technician training will give you knowledge helpful in the real world.

**Certification**

We encourage all Arizona College graduates to take the next step forward to
pursue certification and licensing in the field. The first step of the process
is to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) by passing the examination
offered by the [Pharmacy Technician Certification Board](http://www.ptcb.org)
(PTCB).  If you plan to work as a technician in Arizona, the CPhT is required
for a full Pharmacy Technician License. In order to practice as a Pharmacy
Technician, you’ll need to have one of the following two licenses:

**Trainee License**

A trainee license is required to participate in the clinical externship part of
our program and can  be obtained by applying to the Arizona State Board of
Pharmacy. You need your U.S. birth certificate and high school diploma or GED
equivalent. The license costs $46 and lasts for two years.

**Full License**

A full license allows you to practice as a Pharmacy Technician in Arizona. You
must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) given by the
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. You’ll have to show your PTCB
certification to apply for a Certified License. Once you get your Full Pharmacy
Technician License it’s time to celebrate, as you now can practice as a
technician in Arizona!

**Stay Sharp**

Keep in mind both your Certified License and PTCB certification will need to be
renewed every two years. You must complete 20 hours of continuing education to
renew your certification and be eligible to apply for a renewed license. When
you need to renew, Arizona College offers great courses to continue your
education

- **Sterile Products IV Certification **

Learn the proper preparation and technique involving sterile products and
aseptic over a two days of hands-on training, nine home study modules and eight
process technique validations. This course meets all State Board of Pharmacy
training requirements for IV Certified Pharmacy Technicians and Pharmacists.

- **Compounding Certification **

Solidify your knowledge on the topics of extemporaneous, non-sterile
pharmaceutical compounding over two days of hands-on training and 10 home study
modules complete with exams. Immerse yourself in the latest techniques, methods
and equipment for further career options in the Pharmacy Technician field.

Learn more about
[certification courses here](https://www.arizonacollege.edu/all-programs/pharmacy-technician/certification-information/)
.

Think you’re ready to tackle the exciting and challenging road toward becoming a
Pharmacy Technician? Fill out the _Request Information_ form to the right for
the first step.

---

_Information in this blog post is accurate as of October 20, 2015._

**Categories:** AZC Healthcare Programs