Pharmacy Technician Associate's Degree

View courses and cost per credit for our Pharmacy Technician Associate's degree. 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
Credits: 4

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 Reading and Writing Strategies or placement determined by STEP assessment score.

Course ID: B271
Credits: 4

English Composition

This course is intended to help students develop their ability to write and express ideas in an organized, unified, coherent manner that reflects an appropriate awareness of purpose and audience. Through writing, reading, and discussion, students will learn to synthesize their thoughts as they communicate more effectively. Course concepts are applied to essays, research projects, and specialized writing. Regular writing and revision will improve students' grammar, punctuation and usage skills.

Prerequisite: Passing grade in Reading and Writing Strategies or placement determined by STEP assessment score.

Course ID: G124
Credits: 4

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 non-verbal communication, effective listening and communicating in culturally diverse settings.

Prerequisite: Passing grade in Reading and Writing Strategies or placement determined by STEP assessment score.

Course ID: G141
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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.

Prerequisites: Pharmacy Technician student in last or second-to-last quarter.

Course ID: PT285
Credits: 3

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
Credits: 3

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
Credits: 3

Career Development

The 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
Credits: 2

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
Credits: 4

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 Foundations of Math or placement determined by STEP assessment score.

Course ID: G233
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 5

Pharmacology for the Allied Health Professional

Students in this course will learn the pharmacology concepts necessary for a variety of allied-health programs. They will study drugs according to their therapeutic applications. They will examine pertinent physiology and related diseases before discussing the pharmacology of the drug. Students will also learn basic regulations that apply to drugs.

Prerequisites: Medical Terminology; Human Anatomy and Physiology I, or Structure and Function of the Human Body

Course ID: MA135
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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. Student 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
Credits: 3

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 within an institutional setting. Emphasis is on correctly filling orders with correct drug, dosage, and frequency. The IV lab 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
Credits: 3

General Education Courses

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

Music Appreciation

Students will study the development of representative musical styles and techniques in this course. Students will learn about the formal structure of music and the significant figures that have shaped the various periods in musical history.

Prerequisite: none

Course ID: G151
Credits: 4

Introduction to Philosophy

This course provides students with an introductory understanding of the fundamental questions of philosophy, and an opportunity to develop their own attitudes and beliefs as they seek greater knowledge. Some of the topics students will explore include what it means to be human, the nature of reality, what is truth, morality, free will, and the nature of the self. Significant figures that have played a vital role in developing various fields of philosophy will also be introduced.

Prerequisite: none

Course ID: G155
Credits: 4

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.

Prerequisites: Passing grade in Reading and Writing Strategies or placement determined by STEP assessment score.

Course ID: G201
Credits: 4

Writing About Literature

This course is designed to expose the student to both a variety of literary forms and important writing topics such as symbolism, myth, and character. Utilizing writing as a major mode of thinking, continued emphasis is placed on construction and composition, including word usage, grammar and sentence analysis. A documented research paper is required.

Prerequisite: English Composition

Course ID: G220
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

Ethics

This course is designed as a study of ethical practices and principles and its relationship to personal and social morality. Emphasis is placed on the application of ethical theories to problems faced in business and society.

Prerequisite: none

Course ID: G225
Credits: 4

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 Comp. recommended]

Course ID: G230
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

Natural Sciences (Select 1 course)

Introduction to Zoology

In this course students will explore introductory topics in the biology of animals. Students will learn about the structure, function, and physiology of animals, and their role in the Earth's ecosystems. Students will also have an opportunity to study animal genetics, growth, and behavioral and reproductive patterns in this course.

Prerequisite: none

Course ID: G170
Credits: 4

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.

Prerequisites: none

Course ID: G215
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

Social Sciences (Select 2 courses)

NOTE: Students who take Principles of Economics may not take Macroeconomics or Microeconomics

Principles of Economics

Introduction to national income theories, price theories and behavior of the firm under varying economic conditions. Includes the economic roles of business, government and households; economic fluctuations and growth; money and banking; and international economics.

Prerequisite: none

Course ID: G123
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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
Credits: 4

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 placement test score.

Course ID: B080
Credits: 4

Foundations of Math

This course is a study of the fundamentals of mathematics in the following areas: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and percentages.

Prerequisite: Placement determined by placement test score.

Course ID: B099
Credits: 4

Total additional general education credits: 20

Total Associate's Degree credits: 90*

*Credit totals do not include Foundation Courses. Students must either demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in Foundation Courses through a STEP placement exam or by successful completion of Foundation Courses.

Calculate the cost per credit for the degree you're interested in.

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.
On-time Completion Rate

51%

Rasmussen Placement Rate

70%

Loan and Financial Aid Section

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.

Federal Student Loans

$21,476

Private Loans

$0

Institutional Loans

$0

Tuition and Fees Section

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.

Books & Supplies

$2,400

Room & Board

$0

SOC Code
29-2052.00Pharmacy Technicians
31-9095.00Pharmacy Aides
 
 
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