Pharmacy Technician School Supplies: What Students Really Need
Starting pharmacy technician school is an exciting step toward a career in healthcare. Whether you're enrolling in a certificate program, diploma course, or associate degree, having the right supplies can make your training smoother, more organized, and more successful. While every program is different, many of the tools pharmacy tech students need are consistent across schools.
In this article, you'll learn:
- The essential supplies pharmacy technician students need for class and clinical labs
- What optional tools can make studying easier
- How much you should budget for supplies and equipment
- How to choose the right tech, uniforms, and pharmacy-specific tools
Why the Right Supplies Matter in Pharmacy Tech School
Pharmacy technicians work in fast-paced environments such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and compounding labs, all of which require accuracy, cleanliness, and strong organization.
Pharmacy tech school mirrors that environment, and your supplies help you:
- Stay compliant with lab and clinical requirements
- Improve accuracy during dosage calculations and compounding exercises
- Stay organized across multiple courses and skill areas
- Present professionally in labs and externships
Students with the right tools often feel better prepared and more confident, especially during hands-on labs or the PTCB/NHA certification exam.
Learn more about how to become a pharmacy technician.
Essential Pharmacy Technician School Supplies
Below are the supplies most commonly required by accredited pharmacy technician programs.
1. Scrubs (Uniform)
Most programs require students to wear specific-color scrubs for labs or externships.
Why you need them:
- Promotes professionalism
- Meets school and clinical site requirements
- Durable, easy to clean, and comfortable for long lab sessions
Recommended features:
- Solid colors (navy, royal blue, black, or designated school color)
- At least two sets
- Multiple pockets for tools
2. Non-Slip, Closed-Toe Shoes
Safety regulations require proper footwear during lab and clinical activities.
Look for:
- Slip-resistant outsoles
- Easy-clean uppers
- Arch support for long shifts
3. Scientific Calculator
A calculator is essential for pharmacy math, dosage calculations, compounding, and conversions.
Common Tasks Requiring a Calculator
- Milligram/milliliter conversions
- Percentage strength
- Days' supply calculations
- Dilution problems
Avoid: Graphing calculators (often banned in testing environments)
4. Notebooks, Binders & Organization Tools
Pharmacy tech programs cover multiple subject areas, including pharmacology, law, math, and compounding.
Most students use:
- 1-2 large binders
- Notebook or digital note-taking setup
- Flashcards for drug classifications
- Highlighters and tabs
5. Laptop or Tablet
While not always required, a personal device is extremely helpful for online coursework, practice exams, and drug reference research.
Recommended Specifications
- 8 GB RAM minimum
- 128+ GB storage
- Lightweight and portable
- Compatible with online learning platforms
6. Drug Reference Materials
Many programs require or strongly recommend at least one current drug reference.
Common Options
- Lexicomp (online subscriptions often available)
- Mosby's Drug Reference
- Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses (frequently used in entry-level pharm education)
Some schools provide digital access, so check before purchasing.
7. Lab Supplies (Program-Dependent)
These are typical for hands-on compounding or simulation labs:
May Include:
- Safety goggles
- Nitrile gloves
- Lab coat
- Mask/face shield for sterile practice
- Basic compounding tools (provided by most schools)
8. ID Badge & Lanyard
Required for:
- Building access
- Clinical/externship rotations
- Identification in lab settings
Most schools supply these, but some require students to purchase replacements.
Estimated Costs of Pharmacy Technician School Supplies
Costs vary widely depending on program type and materials included.
Typical Cost Breakdown
| Supply Category | Estimated Cost |
| Scrubs & shoes | $60 - $150 |
| Calculator | $10 - $20 |
| Books & references | $50 - $200 |
| Laptop/tablet (if needed) | $250 - $800 |
| Lab supplies | $20 - $75 |
| Notebooks & organizational tools | $10 - $30 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $350 - $1,000 |
Tip: Many pharmacy technician programs include textbooks, lab supplies, or online drug references in tuition. Always check your school's list before buying anything.
Optional Supplies That Help Students Succeed
These aren’t always required but can make school easier and improve exam readiness.
1. Flashcards (Printed or Digital)
Useful for memorizing:
- Drug classes
- Suffixes (-pril, -olol, -statin)
- Controlled substance schedules
- Common brand/generic pairs
2. Rolling Backpack or Tote
Especially helpful for students attending in-person labs with heavy notebooks or laptops.
3. Blue-Light Glasses
Long hours on screens make these popular among students who study online.
4. Watch With a Second Hand
Useful for timing sterile compounding procedures and tasks during externships.
5. Certification Exam Prep Materials
These tools help students prepare early for certification.
What NOT to Buy Ahead of Time
Some items shouldn't be purchased until you know your school's requirements:
Wait Before Purchasing:
- Specific-brand or color scrubs
- Lab coats
- Expensive drug reference books
- Sterile compounding tools
Many programs provide precise requirements, partnerships, or bundled materials.
How Schools Communicate Supply Requirements
Most accredited pharmacy technician programs share their supply list through:
- Program handbook
- Orientation packet
- First-day syllabus
- Online student portal
- Admissions advising
If something is unclear, contacting the program director is the best approach; they will tell you exactly what to bring to your first lab.
Tips for Saving Money on Pharmacy Tech Supplies
1. Buy gently used textbooks when possible
Drug guides update yearly, but older versions may be acceptable for study.
2. Check school discounts
Many schools partner with scrub companies, software providers, or bookstores.
3. Compare online vs. in-store scrub prices
Online retailers often have student discounts.
4. Use free online resources
For math, drug classification review, and practice tests.
FAQs
Q: Do all pharmacy technician programs require scrubs?
A: Most do, especially those with in-person labs or externships. Some specify color and brand, so wait for official instructions.
Q: Can I use my phone instead of a calculator for pharmacy math?
A: No. Most programs require a basic scientific calculator, and phones are not allowed during exams or skills assessments.
Q: Do I need a laptop for pharmacy technician school?
A: Not always, but it's highly recommended. Many programs use online homework platforms, virtual simulations, and digital drug references.
Q: Will my school provide lab supplies?
A: It depends. Some programs include gloves, goggles, and compounding materials, while others require students to purchase their own. Always check your school's supply list.
