Idaho Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification

Idaho, situated in the Pacific Northwest, is one of the nation’s least populous states. Of course, this does not mean it does not offer excellent medical treatment and a wide range of healthcare careers. Idaho’s economy is based on industries like agriculture, information technology, mining, manufacturing, and healthcare.

The state’s capital, Boise, is also its largest city. Boise is home to several hospitals and larger medical facilities. Pharmacy technicians may work in these healthcare fields as well as in pharmacies around the state.

2026 Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Idaho

Looking for the best pharmacy technician programs in Idaho? You have come to the right place. At pharmacytechnicianschools.com, we have carefully reviewed and ranked the top training options across the state to help you find a program that fits your goals. Our list includes schools that offer quality education, hands-on experience, and good support for students. We want to make your search easier by giving you clear, reliable information so you can start your career with confidence. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out. https://www.pharmacytechnicianschools.com/rankings-methodology/

#1

Idaho State University

Pocatello, ID - Public 4-Year - isu.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Idaho State University's Pharmacy Technology program offers hybrid learning with two certificate options: a one-year Basic Technical Certificate and a 1.5-year Advanced Technical Certificate. Students develop essential skills in pharmaceutical preparation, patient record management, and medication handling, with training in sterile and non-sterile compounding. The program is ASHP/ACPE accredited and prepares graduates for the Pharmacy Technician National Exam, boasting a 100% employment or continuing education rate. Graduates can earn between $35,270 and $45,320 and are equipped for roles in diverse pharmacy settings like hospitals and clinics, supported by practicum placements.

• Hybrid program format
• 1-1.5 year certificate options
• National certification preparation
• ASHP/ACPE accredited program
• Sterile and non-sterile compounding certifications
• 100% graduate employment rate
• Pharmacy Technician National Exam preparation
• Practicum/externship placements
• High-demand healthcare career

#2

College of Southern Idaho

Twin Falls, ID - Public 4-Year - csi.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The College of Southern Idaho provides a sixteen-week hybrid Pharmacy Technician program that combines online flexibility with comprehensive healthcare training. Students gain essential knowledge in pharmacy law, medical terminology, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical calculations. This program prepares graduates to take the National Certification Exam for Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT), creating pathways to pharmaceutical industry careers. With an affordable $425 tuition and no prior experience required, it's accessible to both new workforce entrants and career changers. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills and ethical practices, making it ideal for those seeking efficient entry into pharmacy technology.

• Sixteen-week online course
• National certification exam prep
• $425 total program cost
• Flexible learning format
• Ages 16+ can apply
• Covers pharmacy law, ethics
• Medical terminology included
• Pharmacology curriculum
• No prior experience required

#3

College of Western Idaho

Nampa, ID - Public 2-Year - cwi.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

The College of Western Idaho offers a flexible online Pharmacy Technician program that can be completed in 4 to 12 months at a self-paced schedule. For $3,899, students gain comprehensive training in medication dispensing, pharmacy law, ethics, and patient care, with an included hands-on externship in retail settings. This program prepares graduates for the PTCB Exam, opening doors to high-demand roles across various pharmacy environments. As a military-friendly institution, it provides an affordable and accessible pathway into the healthcare field without requiring entrance exams, focusing on practical skills and national certification readiness.

• Online, self-paced program.
• Complete in 4-12 months.
• Cost: $3,899.
• Prepares for PTCB Exam.
• Focus on medication dispensing.
• Covers pharmacy law & ethics.
• Interactive patient care training.
• Hands-on externship included.
• National certification preparation.
• Flexible study schedule.

*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023.

Idaho Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements

Idaho pharmacy technicians are required to meet several conditions to register in this career field. Pharmacy technicians in Idaho must:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Graduate from high school or obtain an equivalency diploma
• Be fingerprinted and agree to undergo a background check
• Obtain and maintain certified pharmacy technician, or CPhT, status via the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or the National Healthcare Association

There are also some requirements for student pharmacy technicians, which require that they be at least 16 years old and enrolled in a supervised school program. Those over the age of 18 must submit to a criminal background check. Student pharmacy techs do not have to be certified, but their roles may be limited.

While a formal pharmacy technician program is not required, completing one in Idaho will lead to expanded employment opportunities and potentially higher pay.

In order to become a certified pharmacy technician, there are a few additional requirements. Certification requires that all candidates provide proof of high school graduation or G.E.D. A diploma, certificate, or transcripts can provide this proof. Candidates must also:

• Provide a current government ID with a photo, like a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport
• Submit fingerprints for a background check, which can be submitted via mail (prints must be taken within six months of application)
• Provide proof of current certification if you are trying to renew your certification – this can be done by uploading a copy of your existing certificate

Idaho Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook

As the population of Idaho and the rest of the United States ages, career opportunities for pharmacy technicians may continue to grow. Idaho currently boasts about 2,190 pharmacy techs, and this number is expected to grow throughout 2029. This number is expected to increase as the roles of traditional pharmacists grow as well, putting more responsibility on technicians.

In 2019, the annual salary for pharmacy technicians was typically about $33,950. This means the hourly wage for Idaho pharmacy techs was close to $16.32. In comparison, the mean annual salary for pharmacy techs throughout the country is about $36,600 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean hourly wage throughout the country is about $17.60. As you can see, Idaho’s wages are slightly lower than other states, including its surrounding states.

Right now, pharmacy technicians face an average job outlook for the rest of the United States. Growth is currently fixed at about 4%, which is on par with other occupations in the country.

Idaho Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs