Idaho Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification
Idaho, situated in the Pacific Northwest, is one of the nation’s least populous states. Of course, this does not mean it does not offer excellent medical treatment and a wide range of healthcare careers. Idaho’s economy is based on industries like agriculture, information technology, mining, manufacturing, and healthcare.
The state’s capital, Boise, is also its largest city. Boise is home to several hospitals and larger medical facilities. Pharmacy technicians may work in these healthcare fields as well as in pharmacies around the state.
2025 Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Idaho
Looking for the best pharmacy technician programs in Idaho? pharmacytechnicianschools.com has done the research for you. Our rankings highlight top schools that offer quality education and hands-on training. These programs prepare you for a successful career in pharmacies across Idaho. We consider factors like pass rates, cost, and student support. Find a program that fits your needs and start your journey today. Learn more about how we rank schools at https://pharmacytechnicianschools.com/rankings-methodology/.
Idaho State University
Pocatello, ID - Public 4-Year - isu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Idaho State University offers a standout Pharmacy Technology program designed for those aiming to excel in the pharmacy field. This hybrid program stands out with its flexible learning options, offering both a one-year Basic Technical Certificate and a 1.5-year Advanced Technical Certificate. Students are immersed in hands-on training covering pharmaceutical preparation, medication handling, and patient record management. Accredited by ASHP/ACPE, the program boasts a 100% employment or continuing education rate post-graduation, with graduates earning between $35,270 to $45,320. Unique highlights include preparation for the Pharmacy Technician National Exam, sterile and non-sterile compounding certifications, and practical externship opportunities, making it a top choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians in Idaho.
- Hybrid program format
- 1-1.5 year certificate options
- National certification preparation
- ASHP/ACPE accredited program
- Sterile and non-sterile compounding certifications
- 100% graduate employment rate
- Pharmacy Technician National Exam preparation
- Practicum/externship placements
- High-demand healthcare career
College of Southern Idaho
Twin Falls, ID - Public 4-Year - csi.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of Southern Idaho's Pharmacy Technician program stands out for its hybrid format, blending online flexibility with comprehensive curriculum coverage. Over sixteen weeks, students delve into pharmacy law, medical terminology, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical calculations, preparing them for the ExCPT certification exam. Notably, the program is accessible to anyone aged 16 and above, with no prior experience required, making it an ideal choice for career changers or those new to the healthcare field. At just $425, the program is not only affordable but also efficiently structured to fast-track graduates into the pharmaceutical industry. Its focus on practical skills and certification readiness positions students for immediate employment opportunities.
- Sixteen-week online course
- National certification exam prep
- $425 total program cost
- Flexible learning format
- Ages 16+ can apply
- Covers pharmacy law, ethics
- Medical terminology included
- Pharmacology curriculum
- No prior experience required
College of Western Idaho
Nampa, ID - Public 2-Year - cwi.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
The College of Western Idaho offers an online Pharmacy Technician program that stands out for its flexibility and affordability. Priced at $3,899, students can complete the program in 4 to 12 months, tailoring their study schedule to fit personal commitments. This program thoroughly prepares students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Exam, covering critical areas such as medication dispensing, pharmacy law, and patient care. With an included hands-on externship, graduates gain real-world experience in retail pharmacy settings. The curriculum also emphasizes effective communication and customer service skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the diverse roles within the pharmacy field. This program is an excellent choice for those seeking a fast-track to a high-demand healthcare career without the need for entrance exams.
- Online, self-paced program.
- Complete in 4-12 months.
- Cost: $3,899.
- Prepares for PTCB Exam.
- Focus on medication dispensing.
- Covers pharmacy law & ethics.
- Interactive patient care training.
- Hands-on externship included.
- National certification preparation.
- Flexible study schedule.
- Affordable pathway to career.
- High-demand healthcare field.
- Practical lab work experience.
- Effective communication skills.
- Customer service training.
- Grow faster than national average.
- Diverse roles in pharmacy.
- Comprehensive education.
- Convenient online learning.
- Externship in retail pharmacy.
Idaho Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements
Idaho pharmacy technicians are required to meet several conditions to register in this career field. Pharmacy technicians in Idaho must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Graduate from high school or obtain an equivalency diploma
- Be fingerprinted and agree to undergo a background check
- Obtain and maintain certified pharmacy technician, or CPhT, status via the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or the National Healthcare Association
There are also some requirements for student pharmacy technicians, which require that they be at least 16 years old and enrolled in a supervised school program. Those over the age of 18 must submit to a criminal background check. Student pharmacy techs do not have to be certified, but their roles may be limited.
While a formal pharmacy technician program is not required, completing one in Idaho will lead to expanded employment opportunities and potentially higher pay.
In order to become a certified pharmacy technician, there are a few additional requirements. Certification requires that all candidates provide proof of high school graduation or G.E.D. A diploma, certificate, or transcripts can provide this proof. Candidates must also:
- Provide a current government ID with a photo, like a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport
- Submit fingerprints for a background check, which can be submitted via mail (prints must be taken within six months of application)
- Provide proof of current certification if you are trying to renew your certification – this can be done by uploading a copy of your existing certificate
Idaho Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook
As the population of Idaho and the rest of the United States ages, career opportunities for pharmacy technicians may continue to grow. Idaho currently boasts about 2,190 pharmacy techs, and this number is expected to grow throughout 2029. This number is expected to increase as the roles of traditional pharmacists grow as well, putting more responsibility on technicians.
In 2019, the annual salary for pharmacy technicians was typically about $33,950. This means the hourly wage for Idaho pharmacy techs was close to $16.32. In comparison, the mean annual salary for pharmacy techs throughout the country is about $36,600 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean hourly wage throughout the country is about $17.60. As you can see, Idaho’s wages are slightly lower than other states, including its surrounding states.
Right now, pharmacy technicians face an average job outlook for the rest of the United States. Growth is currently fixed at about 4%, which is on par with other occupations in the country.
Idaho Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs
Coeur d'Alene, ID
| School | Location | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| North Idaho College | Coeur d'Alene, ID (Online) | (208) 769-3300 |
Lewiston, ID
| School | Location | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Lewis-Clark State College | Lewiston, ID (Hybrid) | (208) 792-5272 |
Pocatello, ID
| School | Location | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho State University | Pocatello, ID | (208) 282-0211 |
Twin Falls, ID
| School | Location | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| College of Southern Idaho | Twin Falls, ID | (208) 732-6221 |