CIP 51.0999
Degree: Career Studies Certificate
Program Code: 221-190-08
Program Length: 1 year - 2 Semesters
Minimum Credits: 26
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Note: If you are interested in becoming a pharmacist, please the Science Website for Pre-Medical Specialization information.

Program Advisor
Sharon Stiltner 
276.964.7249
Russell Hall Room 112

Purpose: This program is designed to prepare students to assist and support licensed pharmacists in providing health care and medications to patients. Students will obtain a broad knowledge of pharmacy practice and be skilled in the techniques required to order, stock, package, prepare, and dispense medications under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Upon completion of the curriculum, students will be eligible to take the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination.

Occupational Objectives: Pharmacy technicians work in hospital, retail, home health care, nursing home, clinic, nuclear medicine, and mail order prescription pharmacies. Pharmacy technicians have been employed with medical insurance, medical computer software, drug manufacturing, drug wholesale, and food processing companies, and as instructors in pharmacy technician training programs. Currently, hospital, home health care, and retail pharmacies hire the majority of technicians.

Admission Requirements: In addition to the general admission requirements to the College, applicants must be high school graduates or the equivalent and must have one unit of Algebra with a “C” average.

Program Requirements: Upon admission and during the course of the program, the College and the clinical affiliate will observe and evaluate the progress of the student. If the student does not exhibit professional behavior, the student will be asked to withdraw from the program. Students are required to have a background check from the Department of State Police by the completion of the first semester.

Academic Program Requirements: Students who receive a final grade lower than “C” in any course will not receive a certificate until a grade of “C” or better is obtained.

Financial Requirements: In addition to tuition and books, it is the responsibility of the student to furnish their own transportation to the clinical area.

Reciprocity Statement:

Pursuant to United States Department of Education (US DOE) regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v), the Southwest Virginia Community College Career Studies Certificate in Pharmacy Technician program provides the following information for all prospective and current students:

This program prepares students to sit for professional exams and/or apply for professional licensure that is required for employment in the related occupation in Virginia.

Please visit the following website to determine reciprocity for your home state:  (https://sw.edu/health-technology/wp-content/uploads/Licensure-Reciprocity.pdf).