FAQs & Resources

Please fill out our online application for our program  no later than the application deadline date.

Applications can still be submitted to the program if it is not filled by the start date for Fall quarter.

One official copy of your high school transcript or diploma and/or college transcript.

Yes. 

The prerequisites to be considered for the Pharmacy Technician program are:

• High School diploma or equivalency
• Proficiency in Biology: Biology 14 or higher or equivalent (high school Biology or Biology 10) 
• Proficiency in Math (high school Algebra I, Math 101, or placement into Math 105 on the Foothill College Assessment Test)
• Proficiency in English (eligible for ESL 25 or English 110, as determined by the Foothill College Assessment Test)
• Successful completion of PHT 200L (Pharmacy Technician as a Career).

The following are NOT prerequisites, but are recommended:

• Keyboarding proficiency of 35 words/minute or higher.
•  Anatomy/Physiology classes.

 

Students who are state residents will pay approximately $2,000 (including books and supplies) for the entire 9 month, ASHP/ACPE accredited program. At other private schools and institutions, this program can easily cost $5,000 - $15,000 or more!

All fees are approximated and subject to change. Most fees are due at the beginning of the program: 

Liability Insurance $20.00 
Material Fees $15.00 - $20.00 per lab 
Uniform scrubs/Lab Coat $35.00 
Books $300.00 
Misc. $200.00 

In addition to the above, the standard Foothill College enrollment fees are required.  

Foothill College offers student loans through its Financial Aid Office. Please call (650) 949-7245 or (650) 949-6987, or refer to Online Financial Aid Guide.

Kaider Scholarships for Allied Health students are also available at the Division Office. Please call (650) 949-7249.

Financial Aid Scholarships: Scholarships

An individual may apply and enroll into the program if they are qualified and accepted. However, students will face problems obtaining a clinical externship site during the program and/or when applying for registration with the California Board of Pharmacy as a Pharmacy Technician. Registration is a legal requirement to work as a Pharmacy Technician in California.

Currently, there is no California State test to complete for licensure. However, you must apply to the California Board of Pharmacy to register as a Pharmacy Technician after the completion of the program. In addition, there is an optional National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (PTCE) that you are highly encouraged to take. This exam is offered at local testing centers and is an electronic based exam. Successful completion of this exam is recognized nationally and you are permitted to use the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).

Despite the economy, pharmacy technicians are still in demand and there are jobs available. Job notices are telephoned, mailed and faxed to us throughout the year. Retail positions are more readily available than hospital positions. Depending on location of employment, experience and education, salaries may range from approximately $30,000 - $40.000. See our Jobs.

The Program Director, Angela Su by email at suangela@fhda.edu for more information on the program.

You will need to submit a program acceptance form, health forms and a regular college application.