Illinois Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification
Opting to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois provides you with a range of advantages. You’ll be able to work in the fast-growing healthcare field while choosing either a patient-facing role or one that is more in the background. In addition to significant advancement opportunities, you’ll also be able to choose from many different workplace environment options.
2025 Best Pharmacy Technician Programs in Illinois
Oakton College
Des Plaines, IL - Public 2-Year - oakton.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Oakton College offers an online Pharmacy Technician Certificate program tailored for individuals aiming to enter the pharmaceutical field. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that includes pharmacy operations, drug interactions, and physiological basics, preparing students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Exam. Unique features include instruction by a registered pharmacist, clinical skills training, and the flexibility to pursue various career paths in settings such as retail pharmacies and hospitals. Notably, as a low-cost community college program, it provides accessible education without compromising on quality or the depth of practical and technical skills essential for today's pharmacy technicians.
- Prepares for PTCB Exam
- Taught by Registered Pharmacist
- Multiple career pathway options
- Clinical skills training
- Low-cost community college program
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lewis University offers a standout online Pharmacy Technician program tailored for those aiming to enter the healthcare field swiftly. This 12-month, self-paced program equips students with 400 hours of comprehensive training, covering everything from medical terminology to pharmaceutical calculations. Unique to this program is the inclusion of a certification exam voucher for the PTCE, alongside an optional 130-hour clinical experience to gain hands-on skills. Priced at $2,995 with a 12% discount, it's an affordable pathway to certification. The curriculum is enriched with digital and physical textbooks, a pharmacy lab kit, and focuses on essential pharmacy operations, ethics, and patient interaction, preparing graduates for diverse pharmacy settings.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- 400 total course hours
- Certification exam voucher included
- Optional 130-hour clinical experience
- Prepares for PTCE certification
- Cost: $2,995 (12% off)
- Open enrollment
- Medical terminology course
- Digital and physical textbooks
- Pharmacy lab kit provided
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's online Pharmacy Technician program stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum, tailored for those aiming to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). The program uniquely combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, covering essential topics like pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy laws, and ethics. A distinctive feature is the optional 130-hour Clinical Experience, providing real-world exposure. With a self-paced online format, open enrollment, and inclusion of a PTCE exam voucher, it's designed for students seeking a convenient yet thorough pathway into the pharmacy technician field. The program also offers a lab kit and digital textbooks, ensuring students have all necessary resources at their fingertips.
- Online self-paced format.
- Includes PTCE exam voucher.
- 12 months to complete.
- 400 course hours.
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience.
- Covers medical terminology.
- Teaches pharmaceutical calculations.
- Includes pharmacy laws and ethics.
- Open enrollment available.
- Prepares for CPhT credential.
University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL - Public 4-Year - uis.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Springfield offers an online Pharmacy Technician program that stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum. This 12-month, self-paced program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful career as a pharmacy technician, including medication processing, pharmaceutical calculations, and understanding pharmacy regulations. A unique feature is the inclusion of a PTCB exam voucher, preparing students for certification upon completion. With an optional 130-hour Clinical Experience, students gain practical skills in real-world settings. The program's affordability at $2,995 and its focus on hands-on learning through lab modules make it an excellent choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCB exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy technician training
- Preparation for certification exam
- Learn medical terminology
- Pharmaceutical calculations training
- Hands-on lab module included
- $2,995 total program cost
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL - Public 4-Year - siu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale offers an online Pharmacy Technician program designed for those looking to enter the healthcare field quickly and efficiently. This 12-month, self-paced program covers essential topics such as medical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, and pharmacy operations, preparing students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) with an included exam voucher. An optional 130-hour Clinical Experience provides hands-on learning. With the pharmacy technician field offering an average salary of $40,300 and increasing demand, this program is a solid choice for career changers or individuals seeking flexible medical training. The program is military-friendly and benefits from a hospital on campus, enhancing practical learning opportunities.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCE exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy tech training
- Prepare for certification exam
- Medical terminology included
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - csu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Chicago State University offers an online Pharmacy Technician program tailored for those seeking flexibility and affordability in their education. Priced at $3,000 with a discount, this 12-month, self-paced program equips students with essential skills in medication processing and pharmaceutical calculations. A standout feature is the inclusion of a PTCE exam voucher, alongside an optional 130-hour Clinical Experience for hands-on learning. With 400 course hours covering medical terminology and patient care, graduates are well-prepared for certification and a career in pharmacy settings. The program's open enrollment and military-friendly policies make it accessible to a wide range of aspiring pharmacy technicians.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- 400 total course hours
- PTCE exam voucher included
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive medical terminology training
- Preparation for pharmacy certification
- Affordable tuition at $3,000
- Hands-on pharmacy skills training
- Open enrollment availability
Lewis and Clark Community College
Godfrey, IL - Public 2-Year - lc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis and Clark Community College provides a dynamic Pharmacy Technician certificate program, blending flexibility with comprehensive training. This 17-credit-hour hybrid program, completable in one semester, offers a unique blendflex format for in-person or virtual attendance, catering to diverse learning preferences. Accredited by ASHP and ACPE, it equips students with essential skills in drug preparation, sterile product handling, and patient records management, alongside ethical practices and communication for third-party reimbursements. Graduates are primed for the PTCB exam, with certification recognized nationwide, and benefit from partnerships like PioneerRx Pharmacy Software, enhancing their readiness for entry-level roles in various pharmacy settings.
- 17-credit-hour program.
- Complete in one semester.
- Blendflex format available.
- Prepares for PTCB certification.
- Accredited by ASHP and ACPE.
- Hands-on drug preparation training.
- Covers patient records maintenance.
- Teaches ethical practice.
- Focuses on effective communication.
- Eligible for state licensure.
College of DuPage
Glen Ellyn, IL - Public 2-Year - cod.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of DuPage presents a hybrid Pharmacy Technician program designed for swift entry into the healthcare sector. This PTCB-recognized training program blends online coursework with practical experiences, equipping students with the necessary skills for national certification and state licensure. Over less than a year, participants engage in a curriculum that not only meets national pharmacy standards but also emphasizes experiential learning. With tuition at $2,199 per semester, the program is an affordable option for those looking to join a profession with nearly 1,500 annual job openings in the region and a median wage of $39,845.
- PTCB Recognized Training Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- National Certification Preparation
- Tuition: $2,199 per semester
- Experiential Learning Opportunities
- State Licensure Preparation
- Nationally Aligned Standards
Joliet Junior College
Joliet, IL - Public 2-Year - jjc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Training
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Joliet Junior College offers a dynamic Pharmacy Technician Training program designed for those eager to enter the healthcare field. This hybrid program blends 50 hours of rigorous coursework with practical lab sessions, covering everything from drug classifications to prescription processing. A standout feature is the optional 80-hour externship, allowing students to gain invaluable hands-on experience in real pharmacy settings. Priced at $1,499, it's an affordable pathway to preparing for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam, with the convenience of evening classes to accommodate working students. No entrance exams are required, making it accessible to all aspiring pharmacy technicians.
- 50-hour comprehensive training
- Prepare for certification exam
- Optional 80-hour externship
- Evening class schedule
- Medical terminology focus
- Hands-on lab experience
- Cost-effective career training
Parkland College
Champaign, IL - Public 2-Year - parkland.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Certified Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Visit Website
Parkland College offers a Certified Pharmacy Technician program online, tailored for those aiming to enter the pharmacy field swiftly. This 12-month, self-paced program covers essential topics like medication processing, pharmaceutical calculations, and patient care, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), with a voucher included. The course also provides an optional 130-hour Clinical Experience, enhancing practical skills in a real-world setting. With comprehensive training materials, including textbooks and a lab kit, students are equipped for success in entry-level positions, where the average annual salary is around $40,300. No entrance exam is required for this certification program.
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCE exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy tech training
- Textbooks and lab kit provided
- Preparation for certification exam
Illinois Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements
In Illinois, there are a number of requirements you must meet in order to become a pharmacy technician. These include the following:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Must hold a high school diploma or the equivalent, or you must be completing such a degree
- Request registration as a pharmacy technician by submitting a written application to the Illinois State Board of Pharmacy
- Pay the non-refundable registration fee
- Be a graduate of a pharmacy technician training program or provide documents from the state-licensed pharmacist who is in charge of training you
- Provide satisfactory results from either the ExCPT or PTCE certification exam
The Illinois State Board of Pharmacy has approved two certification exams: the PTCE and the ExCPT. The ICPT offers the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) while the PTCB offers the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
- PTCE is comprised of 90 questions with multiple choice answers. Test takers are allowed 1 hour and 50 minutes in order to complete the exam.
- ExCPT consists of 100 questions along with 20 pretest questions. The exam must be completed within 2 hours and 10 minutes in one continuous session at an approved testing center.
Illinois Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook
Illinois pharmacy technician careers provide diverse opportunities for motivated employees. From retail pharmacies with a national presence and private hospitals to government agencies and community-based organizations, pharmacy technicians will also discover that they have room for advancement.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that pharmacy technicians will experience a job outlook that increases about four percent from 2019 through 2029. With more than 422,000 jobs in 2019, the agency expects the industry to add an additional 15,200 jobs during that decade.
For 2019, the median pay for pharmacy technicians was nearly $34,000 yearly. For those positions that pay an hourly wage instead, the median was $16.32 per hour.
According to the BLS, Illinois is the state with the fourth-highest level of employment when it comes to pharmacy technicians. About 21,090 people were employed within the industry with a mean annual wage of $33,590. More specifically regarding the Illinois region, the metro area comprised of Chicago, Naperville, IN and Elgin, WI has the second-highest level of employment for pharmacy technicians.
Obtaining certification as an Illinois pharmacy technician provides innumerable advantages for students. Not only will you have many employment opportunities, but you’ll also be well-compensated for your efforts as you perform a valuable service. In addition, you’ll discover that advancement potential and financial stability is built into this career.
Illinois Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs
Belleville, IL
Southwestern Illinois College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Campus Based - Website
- One-semester certificate program
- Belleville and Granite City campuses
- National certification preparation
- Clinical experience required
- WIOA funding available
- High school diploma/GED needed
- Capacity of 20 students per semester
Carbondale, IL
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCE exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy tech training
- Prepare for certification exam
- Medical terminology included
Champaign, IL
Parkland College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCE exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy tech training
- Textbooks and lab kit provided
- Preparation for certification exam
Charleston, IL
Eastern Illinois University
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- Online self-paced format.
- Includes PTCE exam voucher.
- 12 months to complete.
- 400 course hours.
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience.
- Covers medical terminology.
- Teaches pharmaceutical calculations.
- Includes pharmacy laws and ethics.
Chicago, IL
Chicago State University
- 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 medical terminology training
- Preparation for pharmacy certification
- Affordable tuition at $3,000
- Hands-on pharmacy skills training
City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology, Advanced Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 3-semester program.
- Accredited by ASHP and ACPE.
- Prepares for national certification exams.
- Hands-on training in pharmacy settings.
- Affordable tuition for in-district students.
- Requires high school diploma or GED.
- Eligible for English 101 and Math 118.
- Interview with Medical Director required.
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology, Advanced Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 3-semester advanced certificate
- Fully ASHP and ACPE accredited
- Low-cost tuition options
- Prepares for certification exams
- Works under pharmacist supervision
- Multiple pharmacy work settings
- Requires criminal background check
- 18+ years age requirement
City Colleges of Chicago-Richard J Daley College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology, Advanced Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 3-semester advanced certificate program
- ASHP and ACPE accredited
- Low-cost tuition option
- Prepares for certification exams
- Works in various pharmacy settings
City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technology, Advanced Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 3-semester advanced certificate program
- Low-cost tuition: $5,402 in-district
- Fully ASHP and ACPE accredited
- Prepares for national certification exams
- Works in hospitals, pharmacies, medical facilities
Cicero, IL
Morton College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 21-week program duration.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Includes 120-hour externship.
- Prepares for PTCB certification.
- Covers IV therapy and medication prep.
- Workforce and Innovative Act approved.
- Payment plan options available.
- Contact Irina Cline for admissions.
Crystal Lake, IL
McHenry County College
- Certificate/Diploma - Professional Pharmacy Technician Training
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- $1,999 includes books, materials.
- NHA ExCPT exam fee included.
- Focus on pharmaceutical preparations.
- Daily pharmacy tasks training.
- State licensure requirements separate.
- Nationally recognized credential.
- Ideal for healthcare career seekers.
Des Plaines, IL
Oakton College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Prepares for PTCB Exam
- Taught by Registered Pharmacist
- Multiple career pathway options
- Clinical skills training
- Low-cost community college program
Dixon, IL
Sauk Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician with Externship & Certification
Online Learning - Website
- Online accredited pharmacy program
- 12-month self-paced study
- Local clinical externship
- Ages 18 and up
- Career support included
Elgin, IL
Elgin Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Certification
Campus Based - Website
- 10-week, 60-hour program
- $999 total course cost
- Leads to CPht certification
- Commercial/hospital pharmacy training
- Materials and exam included
Freeport, IL
Highland Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- Online, self-paced training
- 12-month program completion
- 400 total course hours
- PTCB exam voucher included
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Open enrollment availability
- Certification exam preparation
Galesburg, IL
Carl Sandburg College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- 12-month self-paced program
- 400 total course hours
- PTCE exam voucher included
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- $2,995 total tuition cost
- Prepare for pharmacy certification
- Online learning format
- Comprehensive medical terminology training
Glen Ellyn, IL
College of DuPage
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online & Campus Based - Website
- PTCB Recognized Training Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- National Certification Preparation
- Tuition: $2,199 per semester
- Experiential Learning Opportunities
- State Licensure Preparation
- Nationally Aligned Standards
Godfrey, IL
Lewis and Clark Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 17-credit-hour program.
- Complete in one semester.
- Blendflex format available.
- Prepares for PTCB certification.
- Accredited by ASHP and ACPE.
- Hands-on drug preparation training.
- Covers patient records maintenance.
- Teaches ethical practice.
Grayslake, IL
College of Lake County
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 11-month program duration.
- Accredited by ASHP and ACPE.
- Hands-on simulation lab training.
- Prepares for PTCE certification.
- Financial aid and scholarships available.
- Focus on five core modalities.
- Includes clinical rotations.
- Learn PioneerRx Pharmacy Software.
Harrisburg, IL
Southeastern Illinois College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for entry-level employment.
- Eligible for ExCPT certification.
- Accredited by NCCA.
- Focuses on legal and ethical standards.
- Teaches inventory management.
- Covers patient confidentiality.
- Emphasizes quality control.
- Available in hospital settings.
Ina, IL
Rend Lake College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Short-Term Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 16 credit hours total.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for certification exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Courses require 'C' or better.
- Supervised by registered pharmacists.
- Focus on pharmacy settings.
- Includes pharmacology and medical calculations.
Joliet, IL
Joliet Junior College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Training
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 50-hour comprehensive training
- Prepare for certification exam
- Optional 80-hour externship
- Evening class schedule
- Medical terminology focus
- Hands-on lab experience
- Cost-effective career training
Malta, IL
Kishwaukee College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Asynchronous instruction.
- Duration: August 26 to December 6.
- WIOA funding available.
- Prepares for pharmacy technician roles.
- Flexible for various life stages.
- No specific admissions requirements.
- Open opportunity for healthcare career.
Mattoon, IL
Lake Land College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for PTCE exam.
- Includes 130-hour Clinical Experience.
- Covers medical terminology.
- Teaches pharmaceutical calculations.
- Self-paced, 12-month program.
- Voucher for PTCE included.
- Online lab module available.
- Requires high school diploma.
Oglesby, IL
Illinois Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- PTCB Certification Prep
- One Year Completion
- $2,995 Total Tuition
- No Prerequisites Required
- 72% Student Completion Rate
- Practicum Experience Included
- Job Growth Through 2032
River Grove, IL
Triton College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- 75-hour comprehensive course
- High school diploma required
- Multiple session options
- $1,200 tuition
- Certification exam preparation
- Multiple pharmacy practice settings
- Career growth potential
Romeoville, IL
Lewis University
- 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
- Prepares for PTCE certification
- Cost: $2,995 (12% off)
- Open enrollment
- Medical terminology course
South Holland, IL
South Suburban College
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 12-week Basic Certificate
- Campus-based program
- Includes pharmacy internships
- Two certificate levels available
- Covers pharmaceutical mathematics
- Pharmacology and operations courses
- Meets Illinois state licensing requirements
Springfield, IL
University of Illinois Springfield
- Certificate/Diploma - Pharmacy Technician
Online Learning - Website
- 12-month self-paced online program
- PTCB exam voucher included
- 400 total course hours
- Optional 130-hour Clinical Experience
- Comprehensive pharmacy technician training
- Preparation for certification exam
- Learn medical terminology
- Pharmaceutical calculations training
University Park, IL
Governors State University
- Certificate/Diploma - Online Pharmacy Technician Course
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online pharmacy course
- No prerequisite requirements
- PTCB exam preparation
- Practicum experience included
- One year program completion