Dr. Larry Allen

On August 18, a new group of students at Arapahoe Community College will begin their 23 week accelerated program in preparation for the national pharmacy technician certification examination.

ACC’s fast-track program mixes online study with real-world laboratory experience in the College’s simulated pharmacy.  Following classroom training, students complete required internships in local hospital or retail pharmacies.

“Certified pharmacy technicians are highly attractive candidates for employment by local area companies and institutions,” according to Program Coordinator Dr. Larry Allen.  Allen also notes that most of the program’s students tend to be young-people, stay-at-home parents, and retirees that are attracted to the flexible work schedule the career offers.

Pharmacy Technicians have many various responsibilities at hospital, chain, and neighborhood drug stores.  Graduates are not restricted to working in hospitals and pharmacies.  There are now career opportunities with mail order operations, nuclear medicine, pharmaceutical robotics manufacturers, prescription drug sales companies, medical publishers, and even as hospital equipment representatives.

ACC’s program is currently partnered with the University of Colorado’s School of Pharmacy, allowing CU students to intern as teaching assistants to the program, gaining cutting edge experience.  Allen states that ACC’s program faculty predominately consists of practicing pharmacists; giving students the advantage to study under the people they will most likely work for. 

As America’s 76 million baby boomers become senior citizens, the demand for Pharmacy Technicians is increasing.  The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that pharmacy technician jobs will increase 27 percent over the next seven years.

For more information on the program, contact Allen at 303-797-5944.