PHARMACY TECHNICIAN SCHOOLS IN MICHIGAN
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists by taking on administrative tasks, mixing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, and more. The job is ideal for people who are looking for a career that makes an impact on the lives of others and who enjoy detailed tasks. Each state has its own licensing and employment requirements, so this guide provides an overview of Michigan’s regulations. [Leer en español]
GENERAL LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
Pharmacy technicians in Michigan must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, undergo a criminal background check, and register with the Michigan Board of Pharmacy before beginning work. They must also receive their national certification, which requires the successful completion of a standardized exam. Candidates may apply for a temporary license while they prepare for certification.
PHARMACY TECHNICIAN SCHOOLS IN MICHIGAN
Technical schools and community colleges across the state offer pharmacy technician training programs. Select a pharmacy technician program that provides hands-on education and is accredited by the state Board before enrolling. The following pharmacy technician schools in Michigan are among those in the state that offer acceptable pharmacy technician programs:
- Dorsey Business Schools. Dorsey has four campuses in Michigan. Students are trained in pharmacy operations and terminology, the use and side effects of common medications, and basic pharmacy law. They also complete an externship under the supervision of a pharmacist to get real-world experience.
- Henry Ford Community College. Henry Ford Community College offers a certificate program in pharmacy technology. The program is affiliated with 16 hospital pharmacies and more than a dozen retail pharmacies at which students can complete an externship.
- Michigan Career and Technical Institute. This certificate program can be completed entirely online and includes an externship with a local Walgreens or CVS pharmacy partner. While the program can be completed in as little as four months, students can learn at their own pace and spend more time on it if necessary.
- Penn Foster Career School. Penn Foster offers an affordable, ASHP Accredited online Pharmacy Technician training program. More information.
FORMAL CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
To become a fully licensed pharmacy technician in Michigan, you must receive your national certification. Temporary licenses, which are valid for 210 days, are available to technicians who are currently studying for certification. The state Board does not issue additional, state-specific certifications.
Obtaining your national certification requires you to have a high school diploma or GED and register with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. You can then pay the $129 fee to take the PTCE. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will be issued official certification, which must be renewed every two years by taking continuing education courses.
CAREER AND SALARY PROJECTIONS
The Projections Managing Partnership estimates that jobs for pharmacy technicians in Michigan will increase by 11.2 percent during the 10 years to 2026. This is on pace with the national average rate of 12 percent growth during the same period.
Pharmacy technicians in Michigan average an annual salary of $32,660, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, though Certified Pharmacy Technicians can typically obtain higher pay.
WORKING AS A PHARMACY TECHNICIAN IN MICHIGAN
Pharmacy technicians typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, chains, independent drugstores, and other healthcare facilities, many of which are open late and on the weekends. You should expect to have a nontraditional schedule, stand for long periods, and occasionally move heavy boxes of inventory.
The highest-paying jobs can typically be found in larger cities, such as Lansing and Grand Rapids, where higher salaries match the higher cost of living. However, you should be able to find work at healthcare facilities throughout the state if you choose to work elsewhere.
FAQS
What are the best pharmacy technician schools in Michigan?
- Henry Ford College, Dearborn
- Dorsey School of Business, Wayne and Woodhaven
- Wayne County Community College, Detroit
- Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor
- Ross Medical Education Center, Madison Heights, Ann Arbor, Brighton, and Davison
- Baker College, Owosso
How do you become a pharmacy technician in Michigan?
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a criminal record check
- Register with the Michigan Board of Pharmacy
- Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
- Apply for Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Certification
How much do pharmacy technicians make in Michigan?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technicians in the state of Michigan made an average of $32,660 per year in 2018. Entry-level pharm techs earned around $21,750 and some experienced professionals earned as much as $46,380.
Related:
How to Become a Pharmacist in Michigan
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OUT-OF-STATE OPTIONS
See options in the neighboring states of Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin.