Pharmacy Technician Programs in Kansas City, MO

Before beginning a new career as a pharmacy technician and putting in the effort, energy and resources involved in completing and graduating from a training program for pharmacy technicians in Kansas City, a better understanding of what the role has to offer is a must for most in terms of salary and potential growth prospects.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2019 wage data, on average a pharmacy technician in Kansas City earned $32,840, which is just about in line with the national average of $33,950. When just starting out entry level pharmacy technicians are often in the lowest percentile of earners, averaging around $24,120 or less. The most experienced pharmacy technicians, or those who hold a higher level of pharmacy education may, however, earn $49,130 per annum or more.

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas for Pharmacy Technicians

Here are the top 10 paying metro areas for pharmacy technicians working in Missouri state according to BLS 2019 wage data. Kansas city is the second highest paying city in Missouri after St. Louis.

1. St. Louis, MO - $33,880
2. Kansas City, MO  - $32,840
3. Jefferson City, MO - $31,440
4. St. Joseph, MO -  $31,360
5. Fayetteville, MO - $31,020
6. Springfield, MO - $30,390
7. Southwest Missouri Non-Metro area - $30,180
8. Central Missouri Non-Metro area - $29,870
9. Joplin, MO - $29,310
10. Columbia, MO - $29,140

Job Growth Trends

The pharmacy technology profession has been enjoying good growth in general across the country and that is likely to continue, especially considering the crucial role pharmacies are taking in ongoing COVID-19 mitigation efforts.

For those in Missouri state it is predicted that between 2019 and 2021 employment in the field will grow by at least 20%, but as mentioned, experts say it may be by more, as the role pharmacies play in healthcare continues to expand. 

Source: Projections Central

Pharmacy Technician Schools in Kansas City MO

In the State of Missouri those working as pharmacy technicians must register with the Board of Pharmacy, but they do not need to be licensed or certified to work. The vast majority of employers do prefer, however, to hire certified pharmacy technicians, as that certification helps assure them candidates have the knowledge and experience needed.

There are currently two national certifications students can take. The oldest, and most popular, the PTCE, is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and the newer option, the ExCPT, by the National Health Careers Association.

To sit the PTCE, students are now required to complete a PTCB approved training program. This approval is a sign that a pharmacy technician school in Kansas City, Mo has met the highest standards for pharmacy tech education and can offer students the education and experience they - and their future employers - need.

For Kansas City residents there are two such programs available locally, each offering something slightly different:

1. Metropolitan Community College

 3444 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111 |  816.604.4022

Metropolitan Community College offers affordable education in a wide range of subjects at both certificate and associates degree programs to local students of all ages. For those interested in becoming a pharmacy technician they offer 75-hour professional development course that results in a Certificate in Pharmacy Technology.

The course covers the basic theoretical and practical skills needed to work as a pharmacy technician and, as the offering is PTCB approved, to pass the PTCE. Classes are campus based and include onsite lab lessons that give students a hands-on practical introduction to their future role.

To be admitted to the program students must be over the age of 18 and hold a high school diploma or GED. They must also pass a basic proficiency test in Math and English.

The cost of completing the program is $1,000. This cost must be paid in cash, but a payment program is available, and some students may be eligible for a state workforce grant to cover the cost. Those who are not can make use of an interest free payment program that spreads the cost. 

2. State Fair Community College

 3201 W. 16th Street Sedalia, Missouri 65301-2188|  (877) 311-7322

For those who prefer to complete the majority of their education online, State Fair Community College offers three PTCB approved online programs to those interested in becoming a pharmacy technician. These programs break down as follows:

• Skills Certificate in Pharmacy Technician – 18 Credit Hours
• Professional Certificate in Pharmacy Technician – 30 Credit Hours
• Associate of Applied Science in Health Care Specialist with Emphasis in Pharmacy Technician – 61.5 Credit Hours

The shortest program offers a basic overview of the field and is a good option for those who want to ensure that they are making the right career choice. The Certificate Program builds on those skills and gives students the knowledge and practical experience - often via live online classes - to pass the PTCE. 

Finally, the AAS degree adds the general education requirements needed to earn an associate degree as well as additional training in important concepts such as advanced Pharmacology and technical terminology. AAS candidates also complete an internship with a local employer. 

All programs require that a student hold a high school diploma or GED, and AAS candidates will need to meet minimum academic requirements. They will also need to pass criminal background and drug tests prior to beginning their internship. 

The costs of all courses are charged on a per-credit basis. A students per credit cost is determined during the admissions process and takes into account their residency and personal financial situation. Most students make use of federal financial aid to fund their education, although a private student loan may be an option for those who do not.