Frequently Asked Questions
What does a pharmacy technician do?
Pharmacy technicians are skilled medical professionals who assist pharmacists with the provision of pharmaceutical care in both institutional and retail pharmacies. Duties of a pharmacy technician are varied, but include assisting pharmacists with prescription dispensing, inventory management, administrative reporting, medication compounding, and preparation of intravenous medications.
Does the Pharmacy Technology program offer online courses?
Yes! Courses in the Pharmacy Technology program are available online. The only coursework not available online is (a) the lab component of PHM 210, which requires four visits to campus during the semester, and (b) the clinical internship courses.
How do I apply to the Pharmacy Technology program?
The application for admission into the Pharmacy Technology program and the program curriculum and admission procedures can be downloaded from the Pharmacy Technology webpage.
When is the application deadline?
The Pharmacy Technology program accepts students each Fall. The priority application for Fall admission is June 15. Applications received after June 15 will be considered on a space available basis.
What program options are available?
The Pharmacy Technology program offers a Short Certificate program and an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The short certificate option is designed to be completed in two semesters. The A.A.S. degree option is designed to be completed in four semesters (two academic years). Course requirements for each program option can be found in the program Curriculum and Admission Requirements document on the Pharmacy Technology webpage.
If I choose the A.A.S. degree option, do I have to complete all general required courses before applying to the program?
No, the A.A.S. degree option is designed to allow you to take general education courses along with your program required courses.
What are clinical rotations?
Clinical rotations courses require students to complete internships in both retail and institutional pharmacies. Clinical rotations are a vital component of the program curriculum, enabling students to take the knowledge and skills they have obtained and apply them in a working pharmacy environment.
Where do clinical rotations take place?
Clinical rotation sites are available at several facilities throughout north/central Alabama. Generally speaking, every effort is made to ensure that students are placed at clinical facilities that are within a reasonable driving distance from their homes.
How do I obtain more information about the program?
The application for admission into the Pharmacy Technology program and the program curriculum and admission procedures can be downloaded from the Pharmacy Technology webpage. If you need additional program information, you may call 256-352-8023 to schedule an appointment with an advisor.
