The Possibility of Becoming a Pharmacist After Working as a Pharmacy Technician

Are you a pharmacy technician looking to become a pharmacist? It's a long and difficult journey, but it's definitely possible. In this blog post, we'll explore what it takes to become a pharmacist after a career as a pharmacy technician, including the education and experience required, as well as the potential financial benefits of making the transition.

The Education and Experience Needed

The first step to becoming a pharmacist after being a pharmacy technician is to obtain a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. This typically requires four years of full-time study, plus the completion of at least one year of clinical training. During the Pharm.D. program, students will learn the fundamentals of pharmacy practice and be trained to provide drug therapy services.

In addition to a Pharm.D., pharmacy technicians who wish to become pharmacists must also gain experience in the field. This could include completing an internship or externship, working as a pharmacy technician in a retail or hospital setting, or completing a residency program in a specialized area of pharmacy practice.

The Financial Benefits of Becoming a Pharmacist

Making the transition from pharmacy technician to pharmacist can have numerous financial benefits. For starters, pharmacists typically make much more than pharmacy technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for pharmacists is $126,120. This is significantly higher than the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians, which is $35,250.

In addition to a higher salary, pharmacists may also be eligible for additional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. Pharmacists also enjoy more job security than pharmacy technicians, as they are typically employed on a full-time basis.

Potential Challenges of Making the Transition

While becoming a pharmacist after working as a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding experience, it does come with some potential challenges. For one, it can be difficult to re-enter the education system after a long absence. You may have to brush up on your scientific knowledge and relearn some of the fundamentals of the pharmacy profession.

In addition, it can be a challenge to juggle a full-time job and school. You may have to find time to attend classes or complete clinical rotations, which can be difficult if you’re already working full-time.

The Bottom Line

Becoming a pharmacist after working as a pharmacy technician is possible, but it comes with its own set of challenges. You’ll need to obtain a Pharm.D. degree and gain experience in the field before you can make the transition. But the financial rewards and job security can be worth the effort.