2011-2012

Pharmacy Technician
Technical Diploma — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program code: 31-536-1

This curriculum goes into effect as of summer 2011.
Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

Overview — Pharmacy Technician is a technical diploma program that covers two semesters. The program is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and is directed toward providing you with the skills and knowledge needed to obtain employment as a pharmacy technician in a variety of practice settings. Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of a pharmacist in delivery of pharmaceutical care. During the clinical courses, you will acquire experience in both community and institutional pharmacies. This program may be taken on a part-time basis. All program graduates must be 18 years of age or older.

Career Outlook — Due to a shortage of registered pharmacists, changes related to the medication delivery system and the aging population, there is a need for trained pharmacy technicians. For additional career information, visit www.bls.gov/oco/pdf/ocos252.pdf

Program Learning Outcomes — Employers expect you as a program graduate to be able to:

• Select/prepare/package medications under the supervision of a registered pharmacist
• Label drugs, chemicals and other pharmaceutical preparations as directed
• Deliver medication orders accurately
• Prepare inventory and receive and place supplies in stock
• Compound pharmaceuticals pursuant to written protocol
• Understand and utilize the principles of aseptic technique for the preparation of sterile products
• Clean and sterilize equipment and work areas as directed
• Compute charges and perform basic record-keeping
• Demonstrate computer skills (word processing, spreadsheets and Internet)
• Follow detailed procedures with accuracy
• Apply mathematical concepts to dosage calculations
• Communicate effectively with customers and members of the health care team
• Adhere to state and federal regulations governing the practice of pharmacy
• Abstract relevant information from references and medication labels
• Comprehend principles of basic pharmacology
• Exhibit a high standard of personal discipline

Preparation for Admission — This program admits students through a petition selection process:

What is the petitioning process? (PDF)
Am I ready to petition? (PDF)
Petition Packet (PDF)

A working knowledge of mathematics, including elementary algebra, is strongly recommended. Attributes that will contribute to your success as a pharmacy technician include a neat, well-groomed appearance, conscientious work habits as related to punctuality and attendance, and good interpersonal skills.

Possible Careers:
Certified Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technician

Related Programs:
Health Unit Coordinator
Practical Nursing (LPN)
Phlebotomy

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2011-12.

Hours per Week: r = related, s = shop, c = clinical

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

For course descriptions, times and locations, visit INFOnline.