Pharmacy Technician Associate's Degree
View courses and cost per credit for our Pharmacy Technician Associate's degree. Pharmacy technician courses, course names, and cost per credit may vary by location. Download your state-specific catalog for more information.
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Pharmacy Technician Associate's Degree Course List
Major and Core Courses
Customer Service
This course covers the basic concepts of essential communication skills needed in business to interact/work effectively with individuals and/or groups. Special areas of emphasis include solving problems, developing a customer service strategy, coping with challenging customers, increasing customer retention and surveying customer satisfaction. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: B119 |
Professional Communication
This course teaches communication theory and skills for developing professional documents and oral presentations for audiences in diverse communities and disciplines. To equip students to communicate effectively, this course emphasizes thinking and writing within global contexts, in collaborative situations, and in various electronic environments. Prerequisite: Passing grade in Foundation coursework or placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: B271 |
Computer Applications and Business Systems Concepts
This course teaches students basic to advanced computer concepts and skills, including creating and modifying Word documents, designing databases, spreadsheet creation and analysis, using the Internet and E-Commerce tools, and creating presentations with enhanced features and web tools. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: D132 |
Career Development
This course is designed to study the personal and professional characteristics necessary for obtaining and maintaining suitable employment. The student will assemble a complete job-seeking portfolio including his/her resume and references, letters of application and appreciation, documentation of work and educational history, and demonstration of skills through examples of student work. The course includes an in-depth study of self-marketing approaches, job interviewing techniques and professionalism as well as participation in a mock interview. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: E242 |
US Healthcare Systems
This course provides an overview of the United States healthcare system. The history of the evolution of healthcare will be explored, along with the role of local, state, and federal government in healthcare delivery. An introduction to a variety of provider models and service delivery systems found in both private and public healthcare facilities will be covered, including different types of healthcare facilities. The influence of reimbursement methodologies and finance on healthcare delivery will be explored. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: H200 |
Medical Terminology
This is a basic medical vocabulary-building course. An emphasis will be placed on the most common medical terms based on prefixes and suffixes, Latin and Greek origins, and anatomic roots denoting body structures. All body systems will be covered with a focus on word parts, terms built from word parts, abbreviations, and basic disease and surgical terms. Students will be expected to focus on spelling and pronunciation. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: M120 |
Medical Law and Ethics
A study of the United States legal system and court process with emphasis on legal and ethical issues within the healthcare environment. Fraud and abuse, patient privacy and confidentiality, and professional practice law and ethics will be covered. The course will include a project that is specific to the student's program of study. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: M230 |
Pathophysiology
Students will learn basic concepts and terminology related to diseases and disorders of the human body. Focus is on the structure, nature, causes, diagnostic procedures, pharmacology and treatment of common diseases of selected human body systems. Prerequisite: Human Anatomy and Physiology I or Structure and Function of the Human Body | Course ID: M232 |
Pharmacology for the Allied Health Professional
This course is designed for a variety of allied health programs requiring an understanding of pharmacology. It attempts to present a basic rationale for understanding current drug therapy. This course presents drugs according to their therapeutic applications. Pertinent physiology and related diseases are reviewed before the pharmacology of the drug is discussed. The approach by body system in this course serves to provide the necessary background information and to refresh the student's memory of previously learned material through which the therapeutic action of the drugs can be clearly understood. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology; Human Anatomy and Physiology I, or Structure and Function of the Human Body | Course ID: MA135 |
Introduction to Pharmacy
An introduction to the technician's role in pharmacy practice. The student will gain a basic knowledge of chemistry and become knowledgeable in correct use of CPR. Emphasis will be on patient profiles, receiving and interpreting drug orders, routes of administration, dosage forms, and brand versus generic drugs. The importance of accuracy will be addressed along with methods of avoiding medication errors. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: PT105 |
Pharmacy Math and Dosages
This course will provide the student with the necessary math skills to effectively work within a pharmacy setting. In addition to ratios and proportions, dosage calculations, and conversions, the student will develop knowledge and skills to perform business math functions related to retail pharmacy practice. Prerequisite: Introduction to Pharmacy | Course ID: PT120 |
Pharmacy Software/Automation/ Insurance Billing
Hands-on experience using pharmacy software will be gained via entering patient profiles and prescriptions. The student will learn how to process prescriptions, understand common insurance rejection codes, and gain knowledge of how to solve rejections. Automated ordering, receiving, and maintenance of inventory will be addressed. Students will gain understanding of the various payment methods received by retail pharmacies. The student will explore various automation machines used within pharmacy settings. Prerequisite: Pharmacy Math and Dosages | Course ID: PT125 |
Unit Dose and Medication Preparation
In this course, the student will apply knowledge of medication charts and pharmacy math to correctly dispense and chart delivery of patient medications. Emphasis is on correctly filling orders with correct drug, dosage, and frequency. The course will stress aseptic techniques and the maintenance of sterile conditions. The student will learn to read an IV label, select appropriate additives and base solutions, and properly prepare the prescribed IV compound. Prerequisites: Introduction to Pharmacy; Pharmacy Math and Dosages | Course ID: PT240 |
Pharmacy Technician Capstone
This course is an overview of all pharmacy technician program courses and concepts, with an emphasis on the reviewing and preparation of materials which comprise the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board examination. Prerequisite: Pharmacy Technician student in last or second-to-last quarter | Course ID: PT285 |
Keyboarding I
This course introduces students to the keyboard and basic formatting for business documents. An objective of 25 wpm on five-minute timed writings with 5 or fewer errors is the course goal. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: S115 |
General Education Courses
English Composition (Required course)
English Composition
This course is designed to guide students in understanding the writing process and developing their ability to write and express ideas in an organized, unified, and coherent manner. Students will produce college-level writing that reflects awareness of rhetorical strategies, writing purpose, student voice, and appropriate grammar, punctuation, and usage skills. Through reading, writing, discussion, research, and collaboration, students will practice effective writing and apply course concepts. Prerequisite: Passing grade in Foundation coursework or placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: G124 |
Communication (Select 1 course)
English Composition 2
This course builds on students' understanding of the writing process through an exploration of various writing strategies and research. Students will analyze readings and apply critical reading and writing skills. This course will develop argumentative writing and application of research. Prerequisite: English Composition | Course ID: G126A |
Introduction to Communication
The course will introduce students to basic models and theories of the communication process. Students will learn about a variety of elements involved in communication. They will also explore how factors such as race, ethnicity, age, socioeconomic status, and gender influence communication. Students will focus on developing an awareness of the effects of various types of communication on themselves and others. They will also develop practical skills for improving their ability to communicate in personal, social and professional contexts. Specific topics will include perception, self-concept, verbal and nonverbal communication, effective listening and communicating in culturally diverse settings. Prerequisite: Passing grade in Foundation coursework or placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: G141 |
Oral Communication
This course will present students with a broad understanding of communication in a variety of contexts. Students will learn the processes and strategies of oral communication by exploring speech anxiety, audience analysis, and organizational speech patterns. Students will research, use supporting materials, and use effective language to develop and present a narrative, informative and persuasive speech. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G227 |
Humanities (Select 2 courses)
Humanities
This course investigates human creative achievement. It is designed to increase the student's understanding and appreciation of cultural literacy and the pursuit of humanitarian goals. Representative disciplines may include art, music, literature, architecture, drama, and philosophy. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G125 |
Film Appreciation
Students will study different elements, forms, techniques and styles of film and will learn a critical approach to film and the motion picture industry. Students will critique films and filmmakers through various approaches and assessments that demonstrate analysis, interpretation, and evaluation skills as well as fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of film as an art form. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G145 |
Art Appreciation
Students will examine the historical, social, and technological factors that contribute to understanding the function and meaning of art in this course. Using a global and thematic approach, students will be introduced to the basic elements of art, while learning about a full range of media used to make art, and the fundamental concepts of art criticism. Western and non-Western art is represented, with a strong emphasis on a global perspective in relation to culture, communication, politics, and economics. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G147 |
Creative Writing
This course will develop the student's talents in creative writing. Various forms of writing will be studied, such as short stories, novels, poems, plays and non-fiction. Works by students and others will be critiqued. Students will also develop editorial skills so that each writer may revise and improve his/her work. Students will compose a minimum of 6000 words over the course of the program. Prerequisite: Passing grade in Foundation coursework or placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: G201 |
Introduction to Critical Thinking
A study of the rules of valid judging and reasoning, both inductive and deductive, in a traditional, language-centered context rather than a symbolic context. Logical analysis of both formal and informal fallacies and of the consistency and logical consequences of a given set of statements. Logical analysis is applied to concrete problems dealing with our knowledge of reality. Prerequisite: English Composition | Course ID: G224 |
Introduction to Literature
This course offers an introduction to the most common literary genres: fiction, poetry, drama, and literary non-fiction. Students will study the basic elements of each genre, learn how to compare genres, become familiar with sample texts that illustrate the particularities of each genre, and practice the skills of analyzing and writing about literary texts. Reading and analysis of texts will include a variety of literary forms and periods. Students will engage in approaches to determine literary meaning, form, and value. Prerequisite: none [English Composition recommended] | Course ID: G230 |
Conversational Spanish
This course focuses on common words and phrases students need to develop a working vocabulary which will enable them to communicate with Spanish-speaking individuals in their personal and professional lives. Although oral communication is stressed, included is an overview of Spanish grammar, phonetic pronunciation and Hispanic culture. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G238 |
Math/Natural Sciences (*Required, select 1 additional course)
Structure and Function of the Human Body
This course provides a working knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. A general introduction to cells and tissues is followed by study of the anatomy and physiology of the skeletal and muscular systems. The student is introduced to the nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and endocrine systems. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G150* |
Scientific Literacy
In this course students will explore the role that science plays in the world. Students will survey different natural sciences such as: biology, health sciences, chemistry, physics, astronomy, and geology; as well as analyze specific case studies from these fields. Throughout the course students will develop their scientific reasoning skills. They will learn about the scientific method as well as how to detect common fallacies and misuses of science. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G152 |
General Education Mathematics
This course introduces students to topics from modern mathematics that are relevant to everyday life and not typically covered in the standard college math sequence. Students will be exposed to a variety of mathematical tools from diverse branches of mathematics. They will utilize these tools to solve interesting real-world problems. Topics may include, but are not limited to, game theory, graph theory, the mathematics of growth, applications of geometry, probability, and statistics. Prerequisite: Passing grade in Foundation coursework or placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: G180 |
Introduction to Human Biology
Students will explore fundamental concepts of human biology. They will examine cell structure and function, body systems, and biochemistry. They will also learn basic concepts of genetics and evolution. Students will explore the relationship of human populations and the ecosystem. Students will complete laboratory exercise coordinated with course content. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G215 |
College Algebra
This course provides students with the skills to achieve mastery of algebraic terminology and applications including, but not limited to, real number operations, variables, polynomials, integer exponents, graphs, factoring, quadratic equations, and word problems. Prerequisite: Passing grade in Foundation coursework or placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: G233 |
Introduction to Astronomy
Examines astronomical phenomena and concepts, including the solar system, stars and galaxies, planetary motions, atoms and radiation, and the origin and evolution of the universe. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G239 |
Introduction to Geology
Examines basic geologic principles from a physical or historical perspective. Includes such topics as the formation of rocks and minerals; internal and external processes modifying the earth's surface and phenomena; and the evolutionary history of the earth, including its life forms, oceans and atmosphere. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G245 |
Social Sciences (Select 2 courses)
Introduction to Sociology
This course introduces students to basic sociology terms and concepts. Students will understand how to apply sociological concepts and theories and analyze the structure and relationships of social institutions and the process of social change. Students will explore a variety of topics of sociological interest, including socialization, social inequality, social movements, and the impact of technology and social change on society. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G142 |
Human Geography
This course will introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students will employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental consequences. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G146 |
General Psychology
This course will provide students with a general understanding of basic methodologies, concepts, theories, and practices in contemporary psychology. Areas of investigation may include the goals and research methodologies of psychology, the science of the brain, theories of human development and intelligence, concepts of motivation and emotions, the science of sensation and perceptions, and the current practices pertaining to psychological disorders, therapies, and treatments. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G148 |
Technology and Society
Students will examine the relationships, benefits, historical significance, and effects technology has on society. This course will investigate the local, national and global impact of technology on both individual and global cultures. This course introduces students to basic diversity and technology terms and concepts. Students will examine the influences that emerging technologies have on diversity awareness, the digital divide, and intercultural knowledge. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G149 |
Understanding Cultures
This course is a comparative study of societies and cultures around the world and the cultures within the United States, focusing on the effects of ethnicity and race on African Americans, Latino, Asian American and Native Americans living in the United States. Topics include family, marriage, power, religion, values, inequality, social organization, language, social stratification, economic processes, conflicts and cultural and social change over time. Examples will be drawn from Africa, South America, North America, Asia and the Pacific Islands. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G200 |
Macroeconomics
In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of macroeconomics, which deals with the economy as a whole. An overview of the American economy will be explored through a study of basic supply and demand analysis and a review of fiscal and monetary policy to phases of the business cycle. Unemployment, inflation, GDP, and policy decisions which affect the American economy at home and abroad will be covered. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G203 |
Microeconomics
Students will be introduced to the field of microeconomics in this course, including theories of production, determination of prices, and distribution of income in regulated and unregulated industries. Other topics may include industrial relations, monopolies, and comparative economic systems. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G204 |
American/U.S. National Government
This course presents the development and evolution of the American national government with emphasis on the structures and processes of our representative democracy, including its ties to culture, politics and policies, political parties, and state and local governments. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G242 |
United States History: 1900 to the Present
This course provides an overview of the history of the United States during the 20th century up until the present day. The political, social, and economic aspects of this time will be explored amid a variety of human cultures, values, and perspectives within the United States. Prerequisite: none | Course ID: G270 |
Foundation Courses
Reading and Writing Strategies
This course develops students' reading and writing skills in preparation for college-level coursework. Through review of grammar, punctuation, and the writing process, students will enhance their ability to compose sentences, paragraphs, and short essays. The study of active reading strategies will provide students with the tools necessary for comprehending collegiate level texts. Prerequisite: Placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: B080 |
Practical Math
Mathematics is learned through communication. In this course, students will learn to communicate how problems are solved and how solving problems can be applied in real-world settings. Students will have opportunities to learn multiple problem solving strategies. This course also provides practice and skill problems. Prerequisite: Placement determined by Rasmussen College entrance placement exam score | Course ID: B087 |
Total Associate's Degree Credits
General Education Credits: 36
Major and Core Credits: 54
Total AAS Degree Credits: 90*
* Credit totals do not include Foundation Courses. Students must either demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in Foundation Courses through a Rasmussen College entrance placement exam or by successful completion of Foundation Courses.
Student Investment Disclosure
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Outcome
With an overall college placement rate of 88%, our SUPPORT+ team, including our career services advisors, works diligently to help our students start and advance their careers in their fields of study. Plus, our student advisors and tutors work with you to help you succeed in the classroom so you can achieve your academic goals. Contact a program manager to learn more about SUPPORT+ and how you can become one of our inspiring graduates working in their field of study.
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Loan and Financial Aid
Our SUPPORT+ team will help you complete your financial aid application and review your financial aid award letter. Contact a financial services advisor to discuss your individual needs and goals.
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Full-Time Tuition and Fees
The tuition shown is the full tuition cost and does not reflect scholarships, grants, loans, or any credit transfers-all of which can lower your tuition cost. Contact a program manager to discuss your unique situation and tuition costs for your degree.
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SOC Code
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) provides a representation of occupations for which graduates typically find employment
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) provides a representation of occupations for which graduates typically find employment
