BECOMING A PHARMACY TECHNICIAN IN MINNESOTA

Becoming a pharmacy technician could be a great option if you’re interested in joining the healthcare field without committing to years of medical school.

Pharmacy technicians are:

• Vital members of the healthcare system.
• Assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications.
• Managing inventories.
• Completing administrative tasks. [Leer en español]

The demand for skilled pharmacy technicians in Minnesota is steady, and the state has specific education and certification requirements to ensure that technicians are well-prepared for the job.
This guide outlines how to become a pharmacy technician in Minnesota, including essential training programs and salary expectations so that you can make an informed decision about your future.

Choosing the Right Pharmacy Technician School in Minnesota

Selecting a quality pharmacy technician program ensures you meet Minnesota’s licensure requirements and are prepared for the job. Pharmacy technician schools in Minnesota offer various program lengths and certifications, from certificates to associate degrees. These programs typically cover essential topics such as pharmacy law, ethics, drug classifications, and hands-on externships.

Here are a few highly regarded pharmacy technician schools in Minnesota:

• Hennepin Technical College offers a comprehensive 34-credit program leading to an associate’s degree. It includes coursework in pharmacy practice and ethics and two externship opportunities.
• Hibbing Community College – Provides a two-year associate’s degree with a well-rounded curriculum that includes psychology, computer literacy, and communication skills alongside pharmacy-specific courses.
• Rasmussen College – Features a nine-month certificate program that offers flexible learning options with online or in-person practicums. Students can also transfer credits toward an associate’s degree.

Select a Minnesota Board of Pharmacy-approved program to ensure eligibility for certification and licensure.

Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)

In Minnesota, pharmacy technician licenses must be renewed annually, but national certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is optional. However, earning your Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) designation can enhance career opportunities. National certification can increase responsibilities, higher-paying positions, and professional growth.

To become certified, you must:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
• Pay a $129 certification fee

Once certified, you must renew your certification every two years by completing continuing education courses.

What are the requirements for Becoming a pharmacy technician in Minnesota?

To begin your career as a pharmacy technician in Minnesota, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a high school diploma or GED
• Register with the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy
• Complete an approved pharmacy technician training program from a technical or vocational school or an employer-based program.

Pharmacy Technician Salary and Job Outlook in Minnesota

As a pharmacy technician in Minnesota, you can expect steady employment and competitive wages. According to the latest data from O*NET, the average salary for pharmacy technicians in Minnesota is $47,100 per year.

• 10% of workers earn $37,480 or less.
• 10% of workers earn $58,860 or more.

The pharmacy technician field in Minnesota is projected to grow by 2% from 2020 to 2030, with an estimated 600 annual job openings due to turnover and workforce demands. Employment for pharmacy technicians is expected to increase from 8,220 employees in 2020 to 8,360 by 2030.

If you pursue national certification, your salary potential could be higher, and your job prospects may improve, as certified pharmacy technicians are often considered for roles with greater responsibilities.

Career Opportunities and Work Environment

Pharmacy technicians in Minnesota can work in diverse healthcare environments, such as:

• Hospitals
• Nursing homes
• Chain drugstores
• Independent pharmacies
• Clinics

Due to the increased demand in urban settings, pharmacy technicians may find more job opportunities and higher salaries in cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul. However, positions are available throughout the state, ensuring that rural areas are well-staffed.

Work schedules may include nights, weekends, and holidays, especially in 24-hour healthcare facilities. The job typically requires technicians to stand for long periods and handle medications and equipment.

FAQS

1. What are the best pharmacy technician schools in Minnesota?

Here are some top pharmacy technician programs in Minnesota:

• Saint Paul College, St. Paul
• Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Minneapolis
• Hennepin Technical College, Brooklyn Park
• Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester
• Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Granite Falls
• South Central College, North Mankato

2. How do you become a pharmacy technician in Minnesota?

To become a pharmacy technician in Minnesota, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Register with the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy
• Complete an on-the-job training program or attend an approved vocational training program

3. How much do pharmacy technicians make in Minnesota?

Pharmacy technicians in Minnesota earn an average salary of $47,100 per year. The top 10% of earners make $58,860 or more, while the bottom 10% earn $37,480 or less. Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhTs) may qualify for higher salaries based on additional qualifications and responsibilities.

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OUT-OF-STATE OPTIONS

Residents of Minnesota may also wish to review their options in Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota.