Pharmacy Technician Training Program

About the Profession

Pharmacy technicians provide patients with safe and effective medication therapy. They work closely with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals in hospitals, clinics, and community pharmacies to fill and deliver patient prescriptions. In hospitals and ambulatory clinics, technicians often have additional responsibilities such as preparing sterile medications and operating pharmacy automation systems. With additional training, they may obtain medication histories, facilitate transitions of care, support diversion prevention efforts, administer medication assistance programs, and help with supply chain management. 

To learn more about the profession, including salary potential, please visit the following websites:  

About the Program

Earn while you learn! Not only will VUMC cover the cost of your tuition, you will receive an hourly wage throughout the program with the expectation that upon program completion, you commit to a full-time position as a pharmacy technician at VUMC and continue in that role for 1 year. Trainees must also attempt the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam before completing the program and meet all VUMC criteria for open positions.

VUMC's Pharmacy Technician Training Program not only prepares you to take the national exam to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician, it provides hands-on experience through clinical rotations at various VUMC pharmacy sites. The Program aims to develop highly skilled VUMC pharmacy technicians who will grow with our team. 

Follow us on Instagram @vumcpharmtech and watch our brief video to learn more!

 

Program Structure

The Pharmacy Technician Training Program is 14 weeks. Please review the following information to ensure that this opportunity is the right fit for you:

  • Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (first 10 weeks)
  • Shadowing: During weeks 7-8, in addition to regular class hours, students have the opportunity for paid shadowing experiences on Fridays. Times vary based on assigned locations.
  • Clinical rotations: During weeks 11-14, clinical rotations occur at various VUMC pharmacy sites. The schedule varies based on rotation site.

Program Expectations

This is an accelerated, full-time training program that requires a high level of commitment. Students should plan to dedicate an additional 10-15 hours per week outside of class time for studying and assignments.

Because of the program's intensity, it is not recommended for individuals who

  • are currently enrolled in other school programs
  • plan to work a second job during training.

Students in this program are also Vanderbilt employees who must adhere to all VUMC rules, policies, and regulations in addition to meeting all academic requirements. 

*Trainees must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam prior to end of the program to be eligible for a permanent position at VUMC. They must also meet all criteria for open positions and be in good standing.

What We Provide

The program provides the following at no cost:

  • Textbooks (hard copy must be returned at the end of the program)
  • E-books (yours to keep)
  • State Pharmacy Technician registration (You will pay $40 upfront for fingerprints, but we will reimburse you.)
  • One CPhT Exam

What You Need to Provide

To participate in the program, you will need to provide:

  • A laptop (required for coursework and exams)
  • Gray scrubs (tops and bottoms, any shade of gray, any brand)
  • Close-toed shoes (any color, required for safety)
  • School supplies
    • 300 index cards
    • notebooks
    • pens

Admission Requirements

Minimum requirements:

  • 18 years of age or older
  • high school diploma or GED
  • passing background check and drug screen

*Please note that Externship sites, employers, and state Boards of Pharmacy have strict regulations about drug use, criminal backgrounds, and required immunizations. Illicit drug use, a criminal background, and/or an immunization bar may prevent future employment as a pharmacy technician. 

Application Process

Note: Applications are currently closed. Please check back here for details about the next application window.

Applications for pharmacy technician positions are accepted through VUMC Human Resources. Please note that employment or affiliation with VUMC does not guarantee an interview or admission into the program.

Contact Us

Lindsey Storm, CSPT, CPhT, BA  
Program Director 
 

Laresa Jackson, CPhT 
Educational Coordinator 
 

Email: pharmtechtraining@vumc.org

Mailing Address: 762 Melrose Avenue, Nashville, TN 37211

Phone: (615)-322-6871