Texas Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification
Texas has a large number of healthcare providers and others who work in the medical field. Large cities like Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, and Austin employ many pharmacy technicians in the Lone Star State. Texas, like many other states, has heavily invested in higher education. This has helped create a strong biomedical science industry, leading many people to pursue careers in fields related to medicine and healthcare.
Texas has medical centers, medical schools, laboratories, and pharmacies. It also offers several educational institutions that prepare students to work as pharmacy technicians. Understanding the requirements for state certification is important for those who want to pursue a career in a pharmacy setting.
2025 Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Texas
Looking for the best pharmacy technician programs in Texas? PharmacyTechnicianSchools.com has you covered. We rank top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality education, hands-on training, and job prep. Start your journey to a rewarding career today. Check out our rankings to see which programs stand out. Learn more about how we rank schools here.
Baylor University
Waco, TX - Private 4-year - baylor.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Baylor University offers an online Pharmacy Technician certification program designed for individuals aiming to enter the pharmaceutical sector. This 12-month, self-paced program equips students with essential skills in medication processing, pharmacy laws, and patient interaction, preparing them for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), with an exam voucher provided. The curriculum encompasses medical terminology, pharmacology, and practical lab work, totaling 400 course hours. For those seeking hands-on experience, an optional 130-hour clinical opportunity is available. Priced at $2,995, with a 12% discount, the program is tailored for working professionals, offering flexibility and a pathway to entry-level positions with potential earnings of around $40,300 annually.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCE exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour clinical experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy technician training
- Medical terminology included
- Pharmacology and calculation courses
- Prepare for certification exam
- Open enrollment available
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - Public 4-Year - tamu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Aggie Pharmacy Technician Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas A&M University's Aggie Pharmacy Technician Program is a campus-based initiative aimed at combating the pharmacy technician shortage in Texas. Offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, the program spans 7.5 months, including a 180-hour apprenticeship in retail or hospital settings. With a tuition of $4,000, it's an affordable option for aspiring technicians. The curriculum covers pharmacy law, ethics, and patient care, taught by PharmD and PhD faculty. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED, a 2.5 GPA, and background checks. Graduates are well-prepared for certification and entering a field with significant demand.
- Campus-based program.
- Total tuition $4,000.
- 180-hour apprenticeship included.
- Requires high school diploma or GED.
- 2.5 GPA for admission.
- Background checks required.
- Scholarships available.
- PTCB-recognized program.
- Seeking ASHP/ACPE accreditation.
- Hybrid delivery format.
- Taught by PharmD and PhD faculty.
- APhA Immunization Delivery training.
- Academic support provided.
- Merit and needs-based scholarships.
- Program starts twice a year.
- Curriculum includes pharmacy law.
- Hands-on experience in pharmacies.
- Preparation for certification.
- Employment in high-demand field.
- Program length: 7.5 months.
Associate - Aggie Pharmacy Technician Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Aggie Pharmacy Technician Program at Texas A&M University is an eight-month, hybrid program combining online coursework with practical training. For a total tuition of $4,000, students receive comprehensive education in pharmacy practices, including a 180-hour apprenticeship. The program is recognized by PTCB and aims for ASHP/ACPE accreditation, ensuring graduates are ready for certification and employment. With instruction from PharmD faculty and opportunities for APhA Immunization certification, this program is designed for those seeking entry-level positions in a high-demand field, where Texas technicians earn an average annual wage of $42,990.
- 8-month comprehensive program
- $4,000 total tuition cost
- Hybrid online/campus learning
- PTCB-recognized program
- 180-hour pharmacy apprenticeship
- APhA Immunization certification
- Merit and needs-based scholarships
- Two annual program start dates
- PharmD faculty instruction
- Entry-level pharmacy technician training
University of Houston
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uh.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Houston offers an online Pharmacy Technician certification program tailored for individuals aiming to enter the healthcare sector efficiently. This 12-month, self-paced program equips students with critical knowledge in medical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, and pharmacy operations, ensuring readiness for the PTCB certification exam. With a total of 400 course hours and an optional 100-hour clinical experience, participants gain practical skills in medication processing and prescription management. Priced at $3,095, including a certification exam voucher, the program stands out for its affordability and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a career with an average salary of $40,300 in the thriving pharmacy technician field.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- Certification exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 100-hour clinical experience
- Prepare for PTCB certification
- Cost: $3,095 with 9% discount
- Open enrollment availability
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX - Public 4-Year - tamiu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Online Pharmacy Technician Course
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas A&M International University offers an Online Pharmacy Technician Course designed for students aiming to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) National Certification exam. This fully online program stands out by incorporating an externship with a major pharmacy chain, providing invaluable real-world experience. It covers essential topics such as pharmacy law, ethics, pharmacology, and effective communication, ensuring a well-rounded education. The program is structured for completion within a year, requires no prerequisites, and is accessible to a wide range of students. With the pharmacy technician field expected to grow by 12% by 2028, graduates are well-positioned for a successful career in healthcare. The course's flexibility and comprehensive curriculum make it a top choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians.
- 100% online course.
- Prepares for PTCB exam.
- Includes externship opportunity.
- No prerequisites required.
- Covers pharmacy law and ethics.
- Teaches pharmacology basics.
- Focuses on communication skills.
- Includes insurance and inventory procedures.
- Interactive lab modules.
- Virtual clinical rotations.
- Final comprehensive exam.
- Taught by certified instructors.
- Flexible start times.
- High school diploma required for externship.
- 18 years old minimum for externship.
- Job outlook growth of 12%.
- Average salary of $32,700.
- Top earners make up to $47,000.
- Course completion in one year.
- Eligible for national pharmacy chain externship.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - Public 4-Year - utrgv.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers a focused Pharmacy Technician Program designed for individuals aiming to enter the healthcare field efficiently. This 50-hour program is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in pharmacy operations, including medication handling, prescription processing, and patient interaction. With an optional 80-hour clinical internship, students gain real-world experience, enhancing their employability. The program is tailored for those 18 and older with a high school diploma, preparing them for national certification exams. Priced at $1,399, it's an accessible option for aspiring pharmacy technicians in the Edinburg/Brownsville area, offering both knowledge and practical skills for a successful career start.
- 50-hour classroom instruction
- Optional 80-hour clinical internship
- Prepares for certification exams
- Cost: $1,399
- In-person modality
- Locations in Edinburg/Brownsville
- High school diploma recommended
- 18+ age requirement
- Certification exam fees extra
University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, TX - Private 4-year - uiw.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of the Incarnate Word's Pharmacy Technician Program stands out for its flexible duration options, offering both a 45-week entry-level and a 65-week advanced program. This ASHP/ACPE accredited program in San Antonio provides evening classes, making it ideal for working students. With a curriculum that includes pharmaceutical calculations, compounding, and legal requirements, graduates are well-prepared for national certification exams, boasting a 90% pass rate. The program also offers sterile compounding certification and the opportunity to earn 27-41 college credit hours. Financial aid and VA benefits are available, supporting a diverse range of students in launching their healthcare careers.
- 45-week or 65-week program
- 90% certification exam pass rate
- 27-41 college credit hours
- Evening classes in San Antonio
- Entry-level tuition: $13,325
- Sterile compounding certification
- Extensive healthcare network
- ASHP/ACPE accredited program
The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, TX - Public 4-Year - uta.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Texas at Arlington offers an online Pharmacy Technician program tailored for individuals aiming to enter the healthcare field. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum covering medication processing, pharmaceutical calculations, and patient care, alongside medical terminology and pharmacology. It's designed to prepare students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), with a 12-month self-paced format that includes an exam voucher. Unique features include an optional 130-hour clinical experience and a total of 400 course hours. The program, costing $2,995, provides textbooks and a lab kit, making it a solid choice for those seeking a flexible yet thorough path to certification.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCE exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour clinical experience
- $2,995 total program cost
- Comprehensive certification preparation
- Textbooks and lab kit provided
- Multiple experienced instructors
- Preparation for entry-level pharmacy roles
The University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX - Public 4-Year - utsa.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Online Pharmacy Technician Certification Training
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Texas at San Antonio offers an Online Pharmacy Technician Certification Training program designed for those seeking a flexible path into the pharmacy field. This 100% online program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam, covering essential topics like pharmacy law, ethics, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical calculations. A standout feature is the 100+ hour externship with a leading pharmacy chain, providing invaluable hands-on experience. Priced at $3,195, the program includes an exam voucher and requires no prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of students. With the ability to start anytime and complete the course within a year, it's an excellent option for aspiring pharmacy technicians.
- 100% online course.
- Prepares for PTCB certification.
- 400 course hours.
- $3,195 course cost.
- No prerequisites required.
- Includes 100+ hour externship.
- Learn pharmacy law and ethics.
- Study pharmacology and calculations.
- Exam voucher included.
- Start anytime, complete in one year.
- Accessible to all life stages.
- Real-world externship experience.
- Taught by certified professionals.
- Focus on federal and state laws.
- Interactive lab modules included.
- Virtual clinical rotations available.
- Final comprehensive exam.
- Eligible for national certification.
- High demand career path.
- Potential earnings up to $47,000.
Stephen F Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX - Public 4-Year - sfasu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Stephen F Austin State University offers a flexible online Pharmacy Technician program tailored for those aiming to enter the healthcare field swiftly. This 12-month, self-paced course equips students with 400 hours of in-depth training, covering everything from medical terminology to pharmacology and pharmaceutical calculations. A standout feature is the inclusion of a PTCE exam voucher, alongside an optional 130-hour Clinical Experience to enhance real-world skills. With a focus on professional ethics and workplace safety, the program is priced competitively at $2,995, making it an excellent choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians seeking quality education and certification preparation.
- 12-month self-paced online course
- 400 total course hours
- PTCE exam voucher included
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy technician training
- Prepares for national certification
- Covers medical terminology
- Pharmacology and pharmaceutical calculations
- Professional ethics and workplace safety
- Competitive course price: $2,995
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX - Public 4-Year - txst.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas State University offers an online Pharmacy Technician program designed for those aiming to enter the pharmacy field efficiently. Over 12 months, students engage in a self-paced curriculum that dives into medication processing, pharmaceutical calculations, and understanding healthcare regulations. The program stands out by including a voucher for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), alongside an optional 100-hour Clinical Experience to apply learned skills in real-world settings. Priced at $2,995, it's a cost-effective route to a career with an average salary of $40,300, potentially rising to $57,130 for top performers. With 400 course hours, digital and physical textbooks, and open enrollment, it's tailored for flexibility and comprehensive learning.
- Self-paced 12-month program
- 400 total course hours
- Includes certification exam voucher
- Optional 100-hour Clinical Experience
- Prepare for PTCB certification
- Online learning format
- Comprehensive pharmacy skills training
- Digital and physical textbooks included
- Open enrollment availability
Texas Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements
In order to fulfill the duties of a pharmacy technician in Texas, individuals must be registered with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP). The tasks included in this work include receiving pharmacy requests, entering prescription data into the system, preparing and packaging orders, and completing other duties requested by the pharmacist on staff. As a result, pharmacy technicians work under the guidance of licensed pharmacists.
Pharmacy technicians must submit a Registered Pharmacy Technician application online through the Texas State Board of Pharmacy website. In order to do this, applicants must:
- Hold a current Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Certificate Number
- Understand the continuing education requirements
- Understand they are subject to random audit
No formal educational requirements exist for Texas pharmacy technicians, but many people prefer to obtain education so they can perform the tasks associated with the job and complete necessary exams.
Once pharmacy technicians are registered with the board, they may begin training in a licensed pharmacy. Pharmacies are required to provide on-the-job training, but it is always wise to consider a formal pharmacy technician education program as well.
As noted above, pharmacy technicians are subject to continuing education requirements. This means they must take additional coursework in the future to ensure they can continue to perform the tasks required of them. State-approved courses are available to assist technicians with certification renewal.
Texas Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook
About 29 million people call Texas home. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 38,550 people work as pharmacy technicians in the state. In fact, Texas is one of the top states employing people who work in this position. The metropolitans in Texas with the highest level of employment in this field include the Dallas-Forth Worth area and the Houston area.
Pharmacy technicians in Texas make about $17.13 hourly on average, and the annual mean wage for these employees is $35,620. Texans can expect the employment of pharmacy technicians to grow by about four percent between 2019 and 2029, which is considered on par with most other careers.
With a large portion of the population aging and relying on medications, pharmacy technicians can continue to see their careers grow. Many pharmacy technicians may see their responsibilities develop as the responsibilities of pharmacists develop as well. Pharmacists rely on technicians to help them fulfill growing caseloads.
Texas Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs
Addison, TX
School | Location | Contact |
---|---|---|
Asher College | Addison, TX | (972) 600-2818 |
Alvin, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Alvin Community College | Alvin, TX | (281) 756-3500 |
Amarillo, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Amarillo College | Amarillo, TX | (806) 371-5000 |
Arlington, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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CCI Training Center | Arlington, TX (Hybrid) | (817) 226-1900 |
Austin, TX
School | Location | Contact |
---|---|---|
Austin Community College: Eastview Campus | Austin, TX (Online) | (512) 223-5100 |
The College of Health Care Professions | Austin, TX | (512) 617-5700 |
Virginia College Austin | Austin, TX | (512) 371-3500 |
Beaumont, TX
School | Location | Contact |
---|---|---|
Lamar Institute of Technology | Beaumont, TX | (409) 880-8321 |
Brenham, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Blinn College | Brenham, TX | (979) 830-4000 |
Brownsville, TX
School | Location | Contact |
---|---|---|
UTRGV Brownsville Campus? | Brownsville, TX | (888) 882-4026 |
Cisco, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Cisco College | Cisco, TX (Online) | (254) 442-5000 |
Cleburne, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Hill College | Cleburne, TX | (817) 556-2809 |
Corpus Christi, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Del Mar College | Corpus Christi, TX | (361) 698-1200 |
Del Mar College West Campus | Corpus Christi, TX | (361) 698-1200 |
Corsicana, TX
School | Location | Contact |
---|---|---|
Navarro College at Corsicana | Corsicana, TX | (800) 628-2776 |
Dallas, TX
School | Location | Contact |
---|---|---|
CCI Training Center | Dallas, TX (Hybrid) | (214) 382-0260 |
Dallas County Community College District | Dallas, TX | (214) 378-1500 |
Richland College | Dallas, TX | (972) 238-6100 |
The College of Health Care Professions | Dallas, TX | (214) 420-3400 |
Denison, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Grayson College | Denison, TX | (903) 465-6030 |
El Paso, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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El Paso Community College - Rio Grande Campus | El Paso, TX | (915) 831-3722 |
Fort Worth, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Remington College, Fort Worth | Fort Worth, TX | (817) 522-4500 |
Tarrant County College | Fort Worth, TX | (817) 515-8223 |
Garland, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Remington College, Dallas | Garland, TX | (972) 268-6506 |
Houston, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Houston Community College | Houston, TX | (713) 718-2000 |
Lone Star College?North Harris | Houston, TX | (281) 618-5400 |
San Jacinto College North Campus | Houston, TX | (281) 998-6150 |
San Jacinto College South | Houston, TX | (281) 998-6150 |
Sanford-Brown College | Houston, TX | (888) 734-1333 |
Texas Southern University | Houston, TX | (713) 313-7011 |
Kaufman, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Trinity Valley Community College | Kaufman, TX | (903) 675-6217 |
Killeen, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Central Texas College | Killeen, TX | (254) 526-7161 |
Lake Jackson, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Brazosport College | Lake Jackson, TX | (979) 230-3000 |
Laredo, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Texas A&M International University | Laredo, TX | (956) 326-2001 |
Lubbock, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Virginia College Lubbock | Lubbock, TX | (806) 784-1900 |
McAllen, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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South Texas College - Nursing Allied Health Center | McAllen, TX | (956) 872-3100 |
UTRGV McAllen Teaching Site | McAllen, TX | (956) 665-2071 |
Mt Pleasant, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Northeast Texas Community College | Mt Pleasant, TX | (903) 434-8100 |
Orange, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Lamar State College?Orange | Orange, TX | (409) 883-7750 |
Pharr, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Rio Grande Valley College | Pharr, TX | (956) 781-6800 |
San Antonio, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Northwest Vista College | San Antonio, TX | (210) 486-4000 |
University of the Incarnate Word School of Professional Studies | San Antonio, TX | (210) 757-0202 |
San Marcos, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Texas State University Continuing Education | San Marcos, TX (Online) | (512) 245-2507 |
Texarkana, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Texarkana College | Texarkana, TX | (190) 382-3345 x6 |
Texas City, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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College of the Mainland | Texas City, TX | (409) 938-1211 |
Tomball, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Lone Star College-Tomball | Tomball, TX | (281) 351-3300 |
Waco, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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McLennan Community College- Health & Human Services Continuing Education | Waco, TX | (254) 299-8888 |
Texas State Technical College ? Waco | Waco, TX | (254) 799-3611 |
Waxahachie, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Navarro College At Waxahachie | Waxahachie, TX | (972) 923-6400 |
Wichita Falls, TX
School | Location | Contact |
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Vernon College - Century City Center | Wichita Falls, TX | (940) 696-8752 |