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.

2027 Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Idaho

#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 a Basic Technical Certificate that can be completed in just one year. This hybrid program combines seated and online instruction with laboratory practice and externship placements, preparing graduates for roles as pharmacy technicians in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and other institutional settings. Students gain hands-on training in sterile and non-sterile compounding, immunization administration, and pharmacy operations. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pharmacy law, and the top-200 prescription drugs. With small cohorts of 12-14 students, you receive personalized attention from experienced faculty. The program is nationally accredited by ASHP/ACPE and prepares you to sit for the PTCB national certification exam. Graduates enjoy a 91% five-year positive placement rate. Take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career.

• ASHP/ACPE accredited
• 1-Year program
• 28 total credit hours
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 91% job placement rate
• Prepares for Pharmacy Technician National Certification Exam
• Hands-on training in sterile compounding
• Externship placements available
• Criminal background check required

#2

College of Western Idaho

Nampa, ID - Public 4-Year - cwi.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician

Online Learning - Visit Website

The College of Western Idaho's Pharmacy Technician certificate, offered online in partnership with CareerStep, equips you with essential skills for a high-demand healthcare role. You'll learn medication dispensing, pharmacy law, and patient interaction through self-paced study. The curriculum includes hands-on lab work and an externship at a retail pharmacy like Walgreens, preparing you for the PTCB certification exam. Graduates can pursue careers as pharmacy technicians, with a strong job outlook in Idaho. The program can be completed in as little as four months, with a total cost of $3,899. Ideal for those seeking flexible training with real-world application.

• $3,899 total program tuition
• 12-Month program
• Complete in as little as four months, or take up to twelve months
• $45,219 median earnings
• Prepares for PTCB
• Financial aid available
• Self-paced online program
• Hands-on externship at retail pharmacy
• In partnership with CareerStep
• 16% job growth in Idaho

*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2025.

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