North Dakota Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification

Those looking for entry-level careers in the healthcare industry are increasingly considering pharmacy technician positions. Applying to work as a pharmacy technician in North Dakota comes with certain requirements. Most regulations are Federally mandated, but the state has additional and varied requirements. Read on to find out what steps you need to take to become certified and start a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician in the state of North Dakota.

North Dakota Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements

The steps you'll need to take to become certified as a pharmacy technician in North Dakota are outlined here:

• Only those aged 18 and over may apply for certification to practice as a pharmacy technician
• The applicant must have completed their High School Diploma, or possess a GED at the time of application
• You must have already completed an accredited training program and be fully licensed by PTCB
• Those still training for the PTCB may apply, but must complete the exam within two years
• The North Dakota Board of Pharmacy does not require that you submit documents to prove the above, however, they must be retained and supplied upon request
• The North Dakota Board of Pharmacy will ask you to self-declare your criminal history. They will only carry out a criminal record check for issues of particular concern
• Application to certify as a pharmacy technician costs $35; the cost of renewal is also $35
• Licenses expire every March 1
• Applicants must complete their renewals by March 1 every year and maintain PTCB status
• 10 hours of mandatory training are required each year for pharmacy technicians in North Dakota

Special note 1: Transfers from other states are permitted but there are other steps you must take. You must provide evidence from a past employer such as a contract or statement of duties, a copy of your PTCB, and details of post-high school training.

Special note 2: Interns and technicians in training are exempt from these procedures. Responsibility falls on the employer.

North Dakota Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook

A 2019 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report stated that the number of operating pharmacy technicians in North Dakota was 890. They calculated average pay at $19.19 (median hourly) and $19.12 (mean hourly). Annual salaries for pharm techs in the state averaged at $38,770.

Pharmacy technicians will typically find work in pharmacies and drug stores throughout North Dakota. These outlets employ 51% of the working population. 17% of pharmacy technicians work at or in medical facilities such as hospitals and clinics. 9% work in retail outlets with health facilities such as supermarkets and grocery stores and dedicated non-clinical health stores.

Pharmacies typically work around the clock. Technicians may be asked to work late nights and weekends to fulfill operating requirements. Concessions in non-clinical facilities such as supermarkets may not work 24/7.

Job demand is expected to grow 4% between 2019 and 2029. This is the current U.S. job growth average.

North Dakota Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs

Wahpeton, ND