Pharmacy Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where are the Pharmacy classes held?

All classes meet in room 8708 at the main campus. We are located at 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022

Q. Are Pharmacy classes during the day or evening?

All classes are during the day and are usually scheduled between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. depending on the quarter. For Fall and Winter quarters, classes are Monday through Friday. During Spring quarter, classes are on Monday and Tuesday from 8:00am to 2:20pm with 8 hour hospital/retail externship on Wedensdays through Fridays.

Q. Is Pharmacy Technician a part-time or a full-time program?

Pharmacy Technology is a full-time program. At the present time there are no part-time or evening programs.

Q. How long is the Program? When does it start? Do I earn a degree?

The program is nine months (3 quarters) in length. It starts in September and ends the last week of June. Upon successful completion of all Pharmacy Technician classes, a Certificate of Achievement is awarded, and students are eligible to apply to the state for registration as a pharmacy technician.

The program is curriculum based--all classes are taken for college credit, and may be used toward an AS Degree in Pharmacy Technician.

Q. How can I apply to the pharmacy technician program?

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.

Q. What documents are required with the application?

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

Q. Are there prerequisites?

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.

Q. How much does the program cost?

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. Other scholarships are available.

Q. Can a person be admitted to the Pharmacy Technician Program if they have been convicted of a felony or a drug/alcohol related misdemeanor?

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.

Q. How do I get registered with the State? Is there a test?

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).

Q. How available are jobs? What salary can I expect?

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 Jobsdatabase for current offerings.

Q. How and who should I contact if I have more questions or if I would like to see the Pharmacy classroom?

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

Q. If I am accepted for the program, what else is required ?

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

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