Illinois Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification

Last Updated/Verified: Apr 15, 2025

Opting to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois provides you with a range of advantages. You’ll be able to work in the fast-growing healthcare field while choosing either a patient-facing role or one that is more in the background. In addition to significant advancement opportunities, you’ll also be able to choose from many different workplace environment options.

2025 Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Illinois

Looking for the best pharmacy technician programs in Illinois? PharmacyTechnicianSchools.com has you covered. We rank top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting out or advancing your career, our rankings guide you to the best options. Check out our detailed list to make an informed choice. Learn more about how we rank schools here.

#1

Oakton College

Des Plaines, IL - Public 2-Year - oakton.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Oakton College offers an online Pharmacy Technician Certificate program tailored for individuals aiming to enter the pharmaceutical field. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that includes pharmacy operations, drug interactions, and physiological basics, preparing students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Exam. Unique features include instruction by a registered pharmacist, clinical skills training, and the flexibility to pursue various career paths in settings such as retail pharmacies and hospitals. Notably, as a low-cost community college program, it provides accessible education without compromising on quality or the depth of practical and technical skills essential for today's pharmacy technicians.

  • Prepares for PTCB Exam
  • Taught by Registered Pharmacist
  • Multiple career pathway options
  • Clinical skills training
  • Low-cost community college program
#2

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

Lewis University offers a standout online Pharmacy Technician program tailored for those aiming to enter the healthcare field swiftly. This 12-month, self-paced program equips students with 400 hours of comprehensive training, covering everything from medical terminology to pharmaceutical calculations. Unique to this program is the inclusion of a certification exam voucher for the PTCE, alongside an optional 130-hour clinical experience to gain hands-on skills. Priced at $2,995 with a 12% discount, it's an affordable pathway to certification. The curriculum is enriched with digital and physical textbooks, a pharmacy lab kit, and focuses on essential pharmacy operations, ethics, and patient interaction, preparing graduates for diverse pharmacy settings.

  • 12-month self-paced online program
  • 400 total course hours
  • Certification exam voucher included
  • Optional 130-hour clinical experience
  • Prepares for PTCE certification
  • Cost: $2,995 (12% off)
  • Open enrollment
  • Medical terminology course
  • Digital and physical textbooks
  • Pharmacy lab kit provided
#3

Eastern Illinois University

Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

Eastern Illinois University's online Pharmacy Technician program stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum, tailored for those aiming to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). The program uniquely combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, covering essential topics like pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy laws, and ethics. A distinctive feature is the optional 130-hour Clinical Experience, providing real-world exposure. With a self-paced online format, open enrollment, and inclusion of a PTCE exam voucher, it's designed for students seeking a convenient yet thorough pathway into the pharmacy technician field. The program also offers a lab kit and digital textbooks, ensuring students have all necessary resources at their fingertips.

  • Online self-paced format.
  • Includes PTCE exam voucher.
  • 12 months to complete.
  • 400 course hours.
  • Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience.
  • Covers medical terminology.
  • Teaches pharmaceutical calculations.
  • Includes pharmacy laws and ethics.
  • Open enrollment available.
  • Prepares for CPhT credential.
  • Lab kit included for U.S./Canada.
  • Access to digital textbooks.
  • Taught by experienced instructors.
  • Focus on patient safety.
  • Hands-on online lab module.
  • Career development guidance.
  • State-specific requirements covered.
  • No state requirements for ND, UT, VA, WA, WV.
  • Background check for Clinical Experience.
  • Test-out option for medical terminology.
  • Financial assistance available.
  • Support from student advising team.
  • Certificate of completion awarded.
  • Potential for entry-level positions.
  • Demand for pharmacy technicians growing.
#4

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL - Public 4-Year - uis.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Illinois Springfield offers an online Pharmacy Technician program that stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum. This 12-month, self-paced program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful career as a pharmacy technician, including medication processing, pharmaceutical calculations, and understanding pharmacy regulations. A unique feature is the inclusion of a PTCB exam voucher, preparing students for certification upon completion. With an optional 130-hour Clinical Experience, students gain practical skills in real-world settings. The program's affordability at $2,995 and its focus on hands-on learning through lab modules make it an excellent choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians.

  • 12-month self-paced online program
  • PTCB exam voucher included
  • 400 total course hours
  • Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
  • Comprehensive pharmacy technician training
  • Preparation for certification exam
  • Learn medical terminology
  • Pharmaceutical calculations training
  • Hands-on lab module included
  • $2,995 total program cost
#5

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Carbondale, IL - Public 4-Year - siu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale offers an online Pharmacy Technician program designed for those looking to enter the healthcare field quickly and efficiently. This 12-month, self-paced program covers essential topics such as medical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, and pharmacy operations, preparing students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) with an included exam voucher. An optional 130-hour Clinical Experience provides hands-on learning. With the pharmacy technician field offering an average salary of $40,300 and increasing demand, this program is a solid choice for career changers or individuals seeking flexible medical training. The program is military-friendly and benefits from a hospital on campus, enhancing practical learning opportunities.

  • 12-month self-paced online program
  • PTCE exam voucher included
  • 400 total course hours
  • Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
  • Comprehensive pharmacy tech training
  • Prepare for certification exam
  • Medical terminology included
#6

Chicago State University

Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - csu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

Chicago State University offers an online Pharmacy Technician program tailored for those seeking flexibility and affordability in their education. Priced at $3,000 with a discount, this 12-month, self-paced program equips students with essential skills in medication processing and pharmaceutical calculations. A standout feature is the inclusion of a PTCE exam voucher, alongside an optional 130-hour Clinical Experience for hands-on learning. With 400 course hours covering medical terminology and patient care, graduates are well-prepared for certification and a career in pharmacy settings. The program's open enrollment and military-friendly policies make it accessible to a wide range of aspiring pharmacy technicians.

  • 12-month self-paced online program
  • 400 total course hours
  • PTCE exam voucher included
  • Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
  • Comprehensive medical terminology training
  • Preparation for pharmacy certification
  • Affordable tuition at $3,000
  • Hands-on pharmacy skills training
  • Open enrollment availability
#7

Lewis and Clark Community College

Godfrey, IL - Public 2-Year - lc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Lewis and Clark Community College provides a dynamic Pharmacy Technician certificate program, blending flexibility with comprehensive training. This 17-credit-hour hybrid program, completable in one semester, offers a unique blendflex format for in-person or virtual attendance, catering to diverse learning preferences. Accredited by ASHP and ACPE, it equips students with essential skills in drug preparation, sterile product handling, and patient records management, alongside ethical practices and communication for third-party reimbursements. Graduates are primed for the PTCB exam, with certification recognized nationwide, and benefit from partnerships like PioneerRx Pharmacy Software, enhancing their readiness for entry-level roles in various pharmacy settings.

  • 17-credit-hour program.
  • Complete in one semester.
  • Blendflex format available.
  • Prepares for PTCB certification.
  • Accredited by ASHP and ACPE.
  • Hands-on drug preparation training.
  • Covers patient records maintenance.
  • Teaches ethical practice.
  • Focuses on effective communication.
  • Eligible for state licensure.
  • Nationwide certification validity.
  • Partners with PioneerRx Pharmacy Software.
  • Entry-level employment preparation.
  • Includes sterile product preparation.
  • Teaches third-party reimbursement communication.
#8

College of DuPage

Glen Ellyn, IL - Public 2-Year - cod.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The College of DuPage presents a hybrid Pharmacy Technician program designed for swift entry into the healthcare sector. This PTCB-recognized training program blends online coursework with practical experiences, equipping students with the necessary skills for national certification and state licensure. Over less than a year, participants engage in a curriculum that not only meets national pharmacy standards but also emphasizes experiential learning. With tuition at $2,199 per semester, the program is an affordable option for those looking to join a profession with nearly 1,500 annual job openings in the region and a median wage of $39,845.

  • PTCB Recognized Training Program
  • Hybrid Learning Format
  • National Certification Preparation
  • Tuition: $2,199 per semester
  • Experiential Learning Opportunities
  • State Licensure Preparation
  • Nationally Aligned Standards
#9

Joliet Junior College

Joliet, IL - Public 2-Year - jjc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Training

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Joliet Junior College offers a dynamic Pharmacy Technician Training program designed for those eager to enter the healthcare field. This hybrid program blends 50 hours of rigorous coursework with practical lab sessions, covering everything from drug classifications to prescription processing. A standout feature is the optional 80-hour externship, allowing students to gain invaluable hands-on experience in real pharmacy settings. Priced at $1,499, it's an affordable pathway to preparing for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam, with the convenience of evening classes to accommodate working students. No entrance exams are required, making it accessible to all aspiring pharmacy technicians.

  • 50-hour comprehensive training
  • Prepare for certification exam
  • Optional 80-hour externship
  • Evening class schedule
  • Medical terminology focus
  • Hands-on lab experience
  • Cost-effective career training
#10

Parkland College

Champaign, IL - Public 2-Year - parkland.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certified Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

Parkland College offers a Certified Pharmacy Technician program online, tailored for those aiming to enter the pharmacy field swiftly. This 12-month, self-paced program covers essential topics like medication processing, pharmaceutical calculations, and patient care, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), with a voucher included. The course also provides an optional 130-hour Clinical Experience, enhancing practical skills in a real-world setting. With comprehensive training materials, including textbooks and a lab kit, students are equipped for success in entry-level positions, where the average annual salary is around $40,300. No entrance exam is required for this certification program.

  • 12-month self-paced online program
  • PTCE exam voucher included
  • 400 total course hours
  • Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
  • Comprehensive pharmacy tech training
  • Textbooks and lab kit provided
  • Preparation for certification exam
*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/ (IPEDS 2023).

Illinois Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements

In Illinois, there are a number of requirements you must meet in order to become a pharmacy technician. These include the following:

  • Be at least 16 years of age
  • Must hold a high school diploma or the equivalent, or you must be completing such a degree
  • Request registration as a pharmacy technician by submitting a written application to the Illinois State Board of Pharmacy
  • Pay the non-refundable registration fee
  • Be a graduate of a pharmacy technician training program or provide documents from the state-licensed pharmacist who is in charge of training you
  • Provide satisfactory results from either the ExCPT or PTCE certification exam

The Illinois State Board of Pharmacy has approved two certification exams: the PTCE and the ExCPT. The ICPT offers the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) while the PTCB offers the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

  • PTCE is comprised of 90 questions with multiple choice answers. Test takers are allowed 1 hour and 50 minutes in order to complete the exam.
  • ExCPT consists of 100 questions along with 20 pretest questions. The exam must be completed within 2 hours and 10 minutes in one continuous session at an approved testing center.

Illinois Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook

Illinois pharmacy technician careers provide diverse opportunities for motivated employees. From retail pharmacies with a national presence and private hospitals to government agencies and community-based organizations, pharmacy technicians will also discover that they have room for advancement.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that pharmacy technicians will experience a job outlook that increases about four percent from 2019 through 2029. With more than 422,000 jobs in 2019, the agency expects the industry to add an additional 15,200 jobs during that decade.

For 2019, the median pay for pharmacy technicians was nearly $34,000 yearly. For those positions that pay an hourly wage instead, the median was $16.32 per hour.

According to the BLS, Illinois is the state with the fourth-highest level of employment when it comes to pharmacy technicians. About 21,090 people were employed within the industry with a mean annual wage of $33,590. More specifically regarding the Illinois region, the metro area comprised of Chicago, Naperville, IN and Elgin, WI has the second-highest level of employment for pharmacy technicians.

Obtaining certification as an Illinois pharmacy technician provides innumerable advantages for students. Not only will you have many employment opportunities, but you’ll also be well-compensated for your efforts as you perform a valuable service. In addition, you’ll discover that advancement potential and financial stability is built into this career.

Illinois Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs

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Get information on Pharmacy Technician programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

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Carterville, IL

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John A. Logan CollegeCarterville, IL(618) 985-2828

Centralia, IL

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Kaskaskia CollegeCentralia, IL(618) 545-3000

Champaign, IL

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Parkland CollegeChampaign, IL(217) 351-2200

Chicago, IL

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City Colleges Of Chicago Harold WashingtonChicago, IL(312) 553-2500
City Colleges Of Chicago Harry S TrumanChicago, IL(312) 553-2500
City Colleges Of Chicago Kennedy-KingChicago, IL(312) 553-2500
City Colleges Of Chicago Malcolm XChicago, IL(312) 553-2500
City Colleges Of Chicago Olive-HarveyChicago, IL(312) 553-2500
City Colleges Of Chicago Richard J. DaleyChicago, IL(312) 553-2500
City Colleges Of Chicago Wilbur WrightChicago, IL(312) 553-2500
Coyne CollegeChicago, IL(773) 577-8100
Midwestern Career CollegeChicago, IL(312) 236-9000
Northeastern Illinois UniversityChicago, IL(773) 583-4050

Chicago Heights, IL

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Prairie State CollegeChicago Heights, IL(708) 709-3500

Cicero, IL

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Morton CollegeCicero, IL(708) 656-8000

Crystal Lake, IL

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McHenry County CollegeCrystal Lake, IL (Online)(815) 455-3700

Danville, IL

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Danville Area Community CollegeDanville, IL(217) 443-3222

Decatur, IL

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Richland Community CollegeDecatur, IL(217) 875-7200

Des Plaines, IL

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Oakton Community CollegeDes Plaines, IL(847) 635-1600

Dixon, IL

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Sauk Valley Community CollegeDixon, IL (Online)(815) 288-5511

East Moline, IL

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Black Hawk College Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE)East Moline, IL(309) 796-8223

East Peoria, IL

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Midwest Technical Institute-East PeoriaEast Peoria, IL(309) 427-2750

Fairfield, IL

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Illinois Eastern Community College FrontierFairfield, IL(618) 842-3711

Glen Ellyn, IL

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College of DuPageGlen Ellyn, IL(630) 942-2800

Grayslake, IL

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College of Lake CountyGrayslake, IL(847) 543-2000

Harrisburg, IL

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Southeastern Illinois CollegeHarrisburg, IL(618) 252-5400

Joliet, IL

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Joliet Junior CollegeJoliet, IL(815) 729-9020

Malta, IL

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Kishwaukee CollegeMalta, IL(815) 825-2086

Moline, IL

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Midwest Technical Institute Quad CitiesMoline, IL(888) 755-3326

Mt Carmel, IL

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Illinois Eastern Community College Wabash ValleyMt Carmel, IL(618) 262-8641

Normal, IL

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Heartland Community CollegeNormal, IL(309) 268-8000

Olney, IL

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Illinois Eastern Community College Olney CentralOlney, IL(618) 395-7777

Palatine, IL

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Harper CollegePalatine, IL(847) 925-6000

Palos Hills, IL

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Moraine Valley Community CollegePalos Hills, IL(708) 974-4300

Peoria, IL

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Illinois Central College Professional Development InstitutePeoria, IL(309) 999-4550
Midstate CollegePeoria, IL(309) 692-4092

Quincy, IL

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John Wood Community CollegeQuincy, IL(217) 224-6500

River Grove, IL

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Triton CollegeRiver Grove, IL(708) 456-0300

Robinson, IL

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Illinois Eastern Community College Lincoln TrailRobinson, IL(618) 544-8657

Rockford, IL

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Rockford Career CollegeRockford, IL(815) 965-8616

Rolling Meadows, IL

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Northwest Suburban CollegeRolling Meadows, IL(847) 290-6425

South Holland, IL

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South Suburban CollegeSouth Holland, IL(708) 596-2000

Springfield, IL

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Lincoln Land Community CollegeSpringfield, IL(217) 786-2200
Midwest Technical Institute-SpringfieldSpringfield, IL(217) 527-8324

Sugar Grove, IL

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Waubonsee Community CollegeSugar Grove, IL (Online)(630) 466-7900