subject: Pharmacy Tech Degree: The Benefits of Earning a Degree [print this page] Pharmacy Tech Degree: The Benefits of Earning a Degree
Though the job of a pharmacy technician is basically to assist a licensed pharmacist, your job description, the scope of your expertise and your salary can improve if you undergo further training to earn a pharmacy tech degree.
The field of trained pharmacy technicians is growing and many are turning towards this profession. The scope of this job profile is also widening out and providing a lot of good opportunities for professional growth. One of the reasons interest in this field is growing is that it is relatively easy to earn a pharmacy tech degree. As a result, more and more schools are offering training programs in this field. People from all types of backgrounds are entering this field including high-school graduates, single parents and many others who are re-entering the work force. In order to accommodate the variety of students, many institutes are offering flexible schedules so that those with other full-time responsibilities can attend classes without it being a hardship.
Types of Schooling
Pharmacy tech degree courses are now available online which is great for those with busy schedules. These flexible online classes can be attended from the comfort and convenience of your own home, making the goal of attaining your degree that much easier.
Most educational institutes offer pharmacy tech degrees at four levels: Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree and Doctoral Degree. Depending on the choice of your career endeavor, you can opt to limit or expand your education as you see fit.
Scope of Training
Based on the courses you take and the degree you pursue, you will then be able to expand your role beyond basic pharmacy tech duties. For example, you may become eligible to oversee the stocking and labeling of new medications. You may also be able to hand out prepared prescriptions to patients in the absence of the licensed pharmacist. Your level of responsibility may grow yet more as you are allowed to assist the pharmacist in preparing medications for patients and informing the patients about dosage. Your training will likely be carried out in the presence of the latest technology so that you will become well equipped to deal with new technology as it evolves.
The more education you receive the better your job prospects will be and the greater chance you will have to earn a higher salary. Though it will require extra time and effort, the investment you make in your education will definitely be worth it!
