Tennessee Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification

Last Updated/Verified: Aug 21, 2025

Working as a pharmacy technician is a fantastic career choice. If breaking into the healthcare industry is of interest, then you should be aware of the various regulations and requirements to practice in the state of Tennessee. Some requirements are Federal laws, while some are state and industry requirements. This guide explains the steps you need to take to achieve that goal and begin working as a pharmacy technician in Tennessee.

2026 Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Tennessee

#1

Chattanooga State Community College

Chattanooga, TN - Public 2-Year - chattanoogastate.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Chattanooga State's Pharmacy Technology program prepares students for an in-demand healthcare career with exceptional job prospects. The comprehensive two-semester program provides hands-on training in prescription filling, medication preparation, and advanced pharmacy techniques. Students gain practical skills through 200 clinical rotation hours, covering entry-level and advanced certification paths. With a 100% completion, certification, and job placement rate, graduates are positioned for diverse employment opportunities in hospitals, pharmacies, and healthcare settings. Affordable in-state tuition and strong industry connections make this an attractive pathway to a stable, growing profession.

  • Two-semester pharmacy tech program
  • 100% job placement rate
  • 130 clinical rotation hours
  • Entry and advanced level tracks
  • PTCB certification preparation
  • Starting salary $24k-$50k
  • Hybrid learning format
  • In-state tuition affordable
  • Multiple pharmacy work settings

Certificate/Diploma - Advanced Pharmacy Technology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Chattanooga State Community College offers an Advanced Pharmacy Technology program, blending online and on-campus learning. This program prepares students for advanced roles in pharmacy practice, including Sterile IV compounding and Chemotherapy Preparation. With a completion rate of 100% and a PTCB Certification pass rate of 100%, graduates are well-equipped for the job market. The program spans two semesters, including clinical rotation hours. Admission is rolling, with detailed application requirements available. Costs vary for in-state and out-of-state students, with financial details provided. This program is ideal for those seeking a dynamic career in pharmacy technology, supported by a strong job outlook.

  • Hybrid program type.
  • 100% completion rate.
  • 100% PTCB pass rate.
  • 100% job placement rate.
  • Includes clinical rotation hours.
  • Rolling admission process.
  • Detailed application requirements.
  • Costs vary by residency.
  • Prepares for advanced roles.
  • Sterile IV compounding skills.
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#2

Walters State Community College

Morristown, TN - Public 2-Year - ws.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Entry-Level Pharmacy Technology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Walters State Community College's Entry-Level Pharmacy Technology program provides comprehensive training for aspiring pharmacy technicians in just one semester. Students gain practical skills through didactic, simulation, and experiential coursework, preparing them to take the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam. The 16-credit hour program equips students with technical competencies and communication skills needed in contemporary pharmacy settings. With an estimated total cost around $3,770, including tuition, textbooks, and certification fees, students can quickly launch a career supporting pharmacists and improving healthcare delivery.

  • 16-credit hour technical certificate
  • National certification exam prep
  • One semester completion
  • PioneerRx Pharmacy Software training
  • PTCB recognized program
  • Comprehensive pharmacy skills
  • Clinical and simulation coursework
  • Healthcare career focused
#3

The University of Tennessee-Martin

Martin, TN - Public 4-Year - utm.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee-Martin offers an online Pharmacy Technician program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the pharmacy field. This comprehensive course covers medical and pharmaceutical terminology, basic anatomy related to pharmacology, and pharmaceutical calculations. Students gain hands-on experience through an online lab module, preparing them for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). The program includes a voucher for the PTCE, making it easier for students to become Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhT). With a focus on practical skills and knowledge, this program is ideal for those looking to enter the healthcare industry. Open enrollment allows for flexible start dates, and the course is self-paced, accommodating various life stages.

  • Online Pharmacy Technician program.
  • Prepares for PTCE certification.
  • Includes PTCE exam voucher.
  • Self-paced, 12-month course.
  • Hands-on online lab module.
  • Covers medical terminology.
  • Teaches pharmaceutical calculations.
  • Open enrollment, flexible start.
  • Focus on practical pharmacy skills.
  • Ideal for healthcare career starters.
#4

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

Dickson, TN - Public 2-Year - tcatdickson.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Unlock a dynamic career in pharmacy with this comprehensive one-year training program designed to transform students into skilled pharmacy technicians. The curriculum provides extensive hands-on learning across diverse healthcare settings, preparing graduates for immediate employment and professional certification. Students gain critical skills in medication preparation, pharmacology, and legal regulations, positioning themselves for success in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Total program investment is affordable at $4,340, with additional supplies cost of $1,340.43, making it an accessible pathway to a promising healthcare career.

  • One-year full-time program
  • 1,296 total clock hours
  • Diploma and certificate options
  • Total tuition $4,340
  • Certification exam preparation
  • Day classes 8am-2:30pm
  • Licensed Pharmacy Technician eligible
  • Clinical training included
#5

Southern Adventist University

Collegedale, TN - Private 4-year - southern.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Adventist University's Pharmacy Technician certification prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career in just 14 weeks. Graduates gain essential skills to support pharmacists, manage medication inventory, and contribute to patient care. The program offers comprehensive training with a focus on practical skills, positioning students for entry into the pharmaceutical workforce. With an average starting salary of $32,000 and credentials recognized by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), students can quickly launch a promising professional path in pharmacy support.

  • 14-week comprehensive training
  • $32,000 average starting salary
  • AMT certification preparation
  • Campus-based learning
  • Healthcare workforce development
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 survey data.

Tennessee Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements

The Tennessee Department of Health's Board of Pharmacy requires that pharmacy technician applicants fulfill the following list of criteria:

  • Registration is mandatory; applicants must submit proof of citizenship along with other documents
  • Only those 18 years or over may register as a pharmacy technician in Tennessee
  • The State of Tennessee has no educational requirements to become a pharmacy technician or national certification. This requirement was abolished in 2015.
  • Individual employers may ask for a High School Diploma, GED, or national certification
  • You must submit all documentation for a formal criminal record check to work in Tennessee
  • Part of the criminal records check is mandatory fingerprinting. You must set up an appointment to do this formally. Out of state applicants can request a fingerprint card which they can return by mail
  • Applicants must self-declare any convictions with supporting court documentation
  • Tennessee charges $85 for registration. The annual renewal cost is also $85

Special note 1: Applicants from other states are welcome to apply. There are no formal reciprocity arrangements – your application will be considered on an individual basis and subject to the same criteria as above.

Special note 2: The Tennessee Department of Health will only process your application when all details are received and after fingerprinting has been carried out.

Special note 3: Interns are exempt from the above requirements. The employing pharmacy must conduct relevant checks before making an offer of employment.

Tennessee Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook

The most recent (2019) U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report recorded 10,270 pharmacy technicians in Tennessee. Average pay rates were calculated at a median of $15.24 per hour, and $34,510 annually.

Over half of all pharmacy technicians nationwide are currently employed in pharmacies and drug stores. 17%, around 1 in 6, are currently employed in clinical facilities such as hospital pharmacy departments, and at specialty clinics. A further 9% work in retail outlets with pharmacy concessions inside third party facilities. This includes grocery stores, supermarkets, and health food outlets.

Pharmacy technicians can expect to work a variety of hours including nights, weekends, and evening work. Pharmacy needs mean emergency prescriptions. Concessionary outlets and facilities inside third party businesses will operate in line with that business' operating hours and days.

The BLS expects pharmacy technician openings to grow 4% between 2019 and 2029. This is the current average of all jobs in the country, meaning stable and steady employment.

Tennessee Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs

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Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Advanced Pharmacy Technology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program type.
    • 100% completion rate.
    • 100% PTCB pass rate.
    • 100% job placement rate.
    • Includes clinical rotation hours.
    • Rolling admission process.
    • Detailed application requirements.
    • Costs vary by residency.
  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Two-semester pharmacy tech program
    • 100% job placement rate
    • 130 clinical rotation hours
    • Entry and advanced level tracks
    • PTCB certification preparation
    • Starting salary $24k-$50k
    • Hybrid learning format
    • In-state tuition affordable

Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga

  • Associate - Pharmacy Technician

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 18-month Associate's Degree
    • Hybrid and online formats
    • 92 total credit hours
    • Clinical rotation opportunities
    • Rolling admission schedule
    • Career paths in pharmacy settings

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Campus Based - Website

    • 10-week certification program
    • $1,945 total course cost
    • No prior experience needed
    • PTCB Recognized Education Program
    • Optional clinical externship available
    • Prepares for national certification exam
    • Small 20-student class size
    • Face-to-face training format

Clarksville, TN

Austin Peay State University

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online, self-paced 12-month program
    • 400 total course hours
    • PTCE exam voucher included
    • Optional 100-hour Clinical Experience
    • Cost: $2,995 (12% off)
    • Open enrollment availability
    • Certification exam preparation
    • Comprehensive textbook resources

Collegedale, TN

Southern Adventist University

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Campus Based - Website

    • 14-week comprehensive training
    • $32,000 average starting salary
    • AMT certification preparation
    • Campus-based learning
    • Healthcare workforce development

Columbia, TN

Columbia State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Tech

    Online Learning - Website

    • 50-hour online program.
    • Prepares for PTCB exam.
    • Covers drug regulations.
    • Includes pharmacy calculations.
    • Teaches prescription interpretation.
    • Focuses on drug classifications.
    • Covers inventory management.
    • Includes IV admixture practice.

Dickson, TN

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year full-time program
    • 1,296 total clock hours
    • Diploma and certificate options
    • Total tuition $4,340
    • Certification exam preparation
    • Day classes 8am-2:30pm
    • Licensed Pharmacy Technician eligible
    • Clinical training included

Gallatin, TN

Volunteer State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Training

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online course.
    • Prepares for PTCB certification.
    • Includes externship opportunity.
    • No prerequisites required.
    • Covers pharmacy law and ethics.
    • Teaches pharmaceutical calculations.
    • Includes pharmacology training.
    • Flexible start anytime.

Johnson City, TN

East Tennessee State University

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Certification Training Course

    Campus Based - Website

    • No prerequisites required
    • 18+ age requirement
    • Prepare for PTCB exam
    • Textbook included
    • Tuesday/Thursday evening classes
    • 6 pm to 9 pm schedule
    • Covers retail/hospital pharmacy skills

Knoxville, TN

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Knoxville

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12-month self-paced online program
    • 400 total course hours
    • Certification exam voucher included
    • Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
    • $2,995 total program cost
    • Prepare for PTCE certification
    • Multiple experienced instructors
    • Comprehensive textbook resources

Martin, TN

The University of Tennessee-Martin

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Pharmacy Technician program.
    • Prepares for PTCE certification.
    • Includes PTCE exam voucher.
    • Self-paced, 12-month course.
    • Hands-on online lab module.
    • Covers medical terminology.
    • Teaches pharmaceutical calculations.
    • Open enrollment, flexible start.

Memphis, TN

Southwest Tennessee Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology Technical Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-semester technical certificate
    • 200 clinical rotation hours
    • ASHP accredited program
    • National certification preparation
    • Professional software training
    • Estimated total cost $6,860
    • State board registration eligible

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Training Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • Self-Paced Learning
    • 164 Total Training Hours
    • $1,800 Total Cost
    • Certification Exam Voucher
    • Dedicated Faculty Support
    • Multimedia Course Design
    • Exam Prep for Multiple Certifications

University of Memphis

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12-month self-paced online program
    • 400 total course hours
    • PTCE exam voucher included
    • Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
    • Comprehensive pharmacy technician training
    • Digital and physical textbooks provided
    • Prepare for certification exam
    • Learn medical terminology and pharmacology

Morristown, TN

Walters State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Entry-Level Pharmacy Technology

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-credit hour technical certificate
    • National certification exam prep
    • One semester completion
    • PioneerRx Pharmacy Software training
    • PTCB recognized program
    • Comprehensive pharmacy skills
    • Clinical and simulation coursework
    • Healthcare career focused

Nashville, TN

Nashville State Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online certification training.
    • Prepares for national certification.
    • Includes PTCE exam registration.
    • One-on-one instructor support.
    • 40 to 100-hour externship opportunity.
    • Comprehensive curriculum.
    • All materials included.
    • No refunds post-enrollment.

Tennessee State University

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

    Campus Based - Website

    • 50-hour comprehensive course.
    • Prepares for PTCB exam.
    • Covers medical terminology.
    • Includes dosage calculations.
    • Teaches drug compounding.
    • Focuses on inventory control.
    • Fee includes textbooks.
    • On-campus program.

Newbern, TN

Tennessee College of Applied Technology Northwest

  • Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month full-time program
    • 1,296 total clock hours
    • PioneerRx software training
    • Two credential options
    • Total tuition $4,320
    • Day classes available
    • Hospital/retail pharmacy training
    • Career-focused curriculum

Tullahoma, TN

Motlow State Community College

  • Associate - Pharmacy Technician

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Training
    • PTCB Certification Prep
    • No Prerequisites Required
    • Comprehensive Pharmacy Curriculum
    • 12% Job Growth Projected
    • Virtual Externship Opportunity
    • Learn Federal/State Pharmacy Laws
    • Career Advancement Potential
*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2023, NCES.