Earn While You Learn: Become a Pharmacy Technician Through Apprenticeship
Tired of jobs with no growth or stability? If you’re looking for a real career in healthcare—but don’t have the time or money for years of college—this Department of Labor-recognized Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship could be your breakthrough. No prior experience needed. You’ll earn a paycheck while gaining hands-on skills, preparing for national certification, and building a future in one of the fastest-growing medical support roles in the country.
Why Choose a Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship?
Modern pharmacies are evolving from purely transactional environments into patient-centered care hubs. Trained pharmacy technicians now play a critical role in supporting pharmacists, managing prescriptions, and engaging with patients directly. An apprenticeship program serves as a structured training solution, guiding learners step-by-step toward national certification and long-term employability.
Key Advantages:
• Structured Career Pathway – Learn through an official U.S. Department of Labor-registered program that blends education with paid training.
• Certification-Ready Curriculum – Designed to prepare learners for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
• On-the-Job Experience – Apply classroom concepts in live pharmacy settings under licensed supervision.
• Transferable Skills – Gain nationally recognized credentials and practical competencies applicable in retail, hospital, and long-term care pharmacies.
• Supportive Learning Environment – Benefit from mentoring, coaching, and access to updated resources and real pharmacy systems.
What the Program Includes
This apprenticeship combines Related Technical Instruction (RTI) with On-the-Job Training (OJT). Instruction typically spans one to two years depending on the training site and state regulations.
Training Breakdown:
• RTI (Classroom Hours): Approximately 144 hours per year
• OJT (Hands-On Experience): Around 2,000 hours per year
Curriculum Topics Include:
• Medication safety, dosage calculations, and labeling
• Pharmacy law, ethics, and recordkeeping
• Inventory and supply management
• Patient service and communication techniques
• Prescription processing using pharmacy software
Apprentices also receive guidance for preparing and registering for the PTCB exam, required in many states for pharmacy technician certification.
State Licensure & Requirements
Pharmacy technician certification and licensure requirements vary by state. Some states require additional coursework or exams, while others offer licensure upon successful apprenticeship completion and PTCB certification.
Applicants are advised to check with their local state board of pharmacy to understand specific criteria in locations such as California, Florida, or Ohio, which may require additional steps for licensure.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and designed to help candidates enter the field quickly.
Application Steps:
Complete an Online Form: Access the official apprenticeship portal and fill out the basic application.
Submit Required Documents: Provide identification and undergo a basic background screening.
Select a Location: Select a project site in your region (availability varies by state and employer).
Begin Training: Once accepted, start both classroom instruction and supervised practical hours.
Basic Eligibility:
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently
• Willingness to work evenings or weekends depending on location
• Interest in patient care, healthcare compliance, and teamwork
Commitment & Agreement Terms
Most apprenticeship programs supported by public initiatives do not include harsh penalty clauses. In cases where training costs are subsidized by employers or third-party partners, a basic agreement may outline expectations. These may include:
• A minimum service period after completing training
• Reimbursement of training-related material costs if withdrawing early
Such agreements are typically modest—aimed at protecting training investments rather than deterring participation. The exact terms depend on each program and sponsoring organization.
Walgreens offers the Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship Program at various locations across the United States, including: Chapel Hill, NC • Chicago, IL • Gilbert, AZ • Brooklyn, NY • Dallas, TX • Fountain, CO • Rio Rancho, NM • Tampa, FL • Tempe, AZ • Fort Worth, TX • Kansas City, MO • Albuquerque, NM • Cleveland, OH • Houston, TX • Rochester, NY • Portland, OR • Seattle, WA • Knoxville, TN • Mesa, AZ • San Antonio, TX • Columbus, OH • Tucson, AZ.
Start Building a Healthcare Career Today
This apprenticeship model helps develop the confidence, credentials, and capabilities needed for long-term success in pharmacy environments. With national recognition, real training, and strong industry demand, this program provides a strategic route into the healthcare sector. Take the next step toward a structured, skill-based professional future.