How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Wisconsin: A Comprehensive Guide
With Wisconsin’s growing elderly population and the continuous discovery of new medications, the demand for pharmacy technicians in the state is rising. Pharmacy technicians are vital to the healthcare system, assisting pharmacists with medication preparation and dispensing. [Leer en español]
This career could be an excellent fit if you have strong science, math, and customer service skills and pay close attention to detail.
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Wisconsin
Unlike many other states, Wisconsin does not require pharmacy technicians to be licensed or certified. However, to enhance your employability, it is strongly recommended that you complete a pharmacy technician training program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).
Steps to becoming a pharmacy technician in Wisconsin:
- Meet Basic Requirements: You must be 18 and have a high school diploma or GED.
- Get Formal Training: Although the state does not require certification, attending an accredited pharmacy technician school in Wisconsin will better prepare you for the workforce.
- Consider Certification: While not mandatory, becoming certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) can significantly boost your job prospects.
Completing a formal training program gives you the necessary skills to enter the job market and opens doors to potential out-of-state employment if you decide to relocate.
Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in Wisconsin
If you’re looking to pursue a career in this field, here are some of the best pharmacy technician schools in Wisconsin:
- Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) offers a 16-week pharmacy technician diploma program. Classes begin in August and January, and upon completion, students can take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
- UW Health (Madison): This program is ACPE-accredited and lasts 18 weeks. It provides in-depth face-to-face, lab, and experiential training for a total cost of $3,400 for non-employee students.
- Penn Foster Career School provides an affordable, accredited online pharmacy technician course, ideal for students who want flexibility in their studies.
Choosing an accredited school ensures you receive quality education and meet industry standards, making you more attractive to employers.
Pharmacy Technician Regulations in Wisconsin
Although Wisconsin does not regulate pharmacy technicians, obtaining a national certification from the PTCB can enhance your job opportunities. Pharmacy technicians handle sensitive tasks, including the preparation of medications, so certification assures employers that you have the skills to manage this responsibility.
Salary and Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians in Wisconsin
Pharmacy technicians in Wisconsin earn competitive salaries, even without post-secondary education. Here’s a breakdown based on recent data:
- Average salary: $39,360 per year
- Entry-level salary: $31,410 per year
- Top earners: $51,370 or more annually
Wisconsin is expected to see continued growth in pharmacy technician jobs, with projected employment increasing from 8,370 jobs in 2020 to 9,030 by 2030, an 8% growth rate. This growth will result in approximately 680 annual job openings across the state.
Where to Start Your Career as a Pharmacy Technician in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s largest cities, such as Milwaukee and Madison, offer some of the highest employment rates for pharmacy technicians. These regions and Northwestern Wisconsin are prime areas to begin your pharmacy technician career.
No matter where you choose to work, the skills you gain from one of Wisconsin’s pharmacy technician schools will provide excellent opportunities to grow in this expanding field.
FAQS
What are the best pharmacy technician schools in Wisconsin?
- Milwaukee Area Technical College, Milwaukee
- Gateway Technical College, Kenosha
- Blackhawk Technical College, Janesville
- Lakeshore Technical College, Cleveland
- Rasmussen College, Green Bay
- Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Green Bay
How do you become a pharmacy technician in Wisconsin?
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have a high school diploma or GED.
- Wisconsin does not regulate pharmacy technicians, but attending a pharmacy technician school is highly recommended for better job prospects.
How much do pharmacy technicians make in Wisconsin?
Pharmacy technicians in Wisconsin earn an average of $39,360 per year. Entry-level technicians can expect to make around $31,410, while experienced professionals may earn upwards of $51,370 annually.
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OUT-OF-STATE OPTIONS
Residents of Wisconsin may also wish to review their options in Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan , and Illinois.