Pharmacy Technician Program
Tuition*
Supplies**
Pharmacy Technician Certificate
$2,995
$100+
$3, 095
Total Cost of Program
Length of Program: 6 months (300 hours)
* based on Spring 2015 cost
**based on estimated cost of supplies; amount will vary
Features:
 Riverside Community College District’s Community Education is different than Riverside
Community College in that it is its own entity and is not funded by taxpayer money. It offers the
community a diverse set of classes, events and activities for adults. Many classes are held on the
weekend to accommodate busy schedules. It is a local and affordable option to explore careers.
 Community Education classes are taken for no credit and cannot be used as college credit. No
grades are given. Attendance is recorded as a CEU (Continuation Education Unit).
 The Pharmacy Technician program at RCCD is an introductory program that introduces students
to the foundations of pharmacy science. It also trains students on the tasks that will be required
as a pharmacy technician in any pharmacy setting.
o Pharmacy technicians are responsible for assisting a pharmacist, processing
prescriptions, entering patient data into a computer and preparing some medications.
o Students will be doing 300 hours of work for the program. They are broken down as
follows: 120 hours of classroom instruction, 60 hours of online instruction and 12 hours of
hands on externship.
o All students wishing to apply must be at least 18 years old, have earned a high school
diploma or G.E.D, be proficient in English, and have a good understanding of 9th/10th grade
algebra and arithmetic. Former pharmacy science experience is not required.
o The class covers subjects such as basic physiology, drug interactions, pharmacy
calculations and drug classes.
o The subject matter prepares students for the examination that is needed to become a
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPHt). The cost in 2015 to apply for certification and take
the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is $129 (taken from PTCB website
(http://www.ptcb.org/).
For more information:
Websites: https://rccd.revtrak.net/tek9.asp?pg=pharmacy_tech
By email: To send an email visit https://rccd.revtrak.net/tek9.asp?pg=contact
By phone: Main Office, (951) 222-8090 (8:30 am – 5:00; M-F)
In person: RCCD Office of Economic Development, 152 E. Sixth St., Corona, CA 92879