Alabama Pharmacy Technician Program

Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in AL

Here at Stepful, we have a 4-Month Alabama Pharmacy Technician program that prepares you to take the NHA CPhT certification exam. We offer career coaching plus an optional in-person externship around Alabama.

Spots are limited. We accept qualified applicants on a first come, first served basis.
Program Currently Not Available in This Region.
  • 4-Month Online AL Pharmacy Technician Course

  • Receive your National NHA-CPhT Certificate

  • 100% Online Followed by In-Person Externship

  • Job Interview Prep and Resume Services

  • 1:1 Support From Enrollment to Employment

  • Now Enrolling in Alabama!

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Get Your Pharmacy Technician Certification Online While in AL

If you’re looking to take the next step in your career by becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) in Alabama, Stepful’s online pharmacy technician program can help you achieve your goals.

Our Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) & National Healthcareer Association (NHA) approved program prepares you to earn your CPhT certification online, perform all the duties of pharmacy technicians, and find a job near you in Alabama after graduation.

Our Alabama pharmacy technician classes take 4 months to complete and cover essential topics such as pharmacology, prescriptions, pharmacy calculations, and more.

At Stepful, it's not just about getting certified; we are here to help students gain real world experience and land full time jobs. The Stepful staff is here to support you at every stage of the journey. From career preparedness to help finding an in-person externship*, we're here to help you launch your career in healthcare.
*Please note, students must be available M-F, 9-5 p.m. to be eligible for externship support.

4 months of online training
130 clinical hours
PTCB CPhT & NHA CPhT Certification Prep
75%
NHA Certification Pass Rate
+12 Points Above the National Average
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How to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in Alabama

The Alabama Board of Pharmacy is the official licensing board for pharmacy technicians in the state of Alabama. To obtain a pharmacy tech certification in Alabama, you must follow the requirements created by the Board, which include:
1

Meet Age and Educational Requirements

Candidates must be at least 17 years old and are expected to undergo a thorough criminal background check, which costs about $40.00.

While a high school diploma or GED is not mandated by the Alabama Board of Pharmacy, having one can enhance your employment prospects.

2

Enroll in and Complete a Pharmacy Technician Course

To work as a pharmacy technician in Alabama, you must enroll in a training program approved by the Alabama Board of Pharmacy. All newly licensed technicians are required to complete a Board-approved training program within the first six months after their registration. 

However, while earning a Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification can enhance your credentials, it is not mandatory to practice as a pharmacy technician in Alabama.

After completing your training, register as a pharmacy technician with the Alabama Board of Pharmacy. This process involves submitting an application along with required documents such as a birth certificate or U.S. passport, driver's license, and a recent photograph.

To maintain your registration and stay updated with industry standards, engage in continuing education opportunities. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures you remain a competent and valuable member of the healthcare team.

3

Complete a Pharmacy Technician Externship

Some programs in Alabama may require an externship to provide hands-on experience. Many local retail pharmacies offer opportunities for students to gain real-world practice.

The duration of other programs typically ranges from several months to a year, depending on the institution. Stepful’s online program prepares you for the pharmacy technician certification in 4 months and includes in-person externships along with career mentoring to help you transition into the workforce.

4

Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam

Certain pharmacy technician programs in Alabama may require students to complete an externship to gain practical, hands-on experience. Many local retail pharmacies provide opportunities for students to develop essential skills in a real-world setting.

Program durations can vary, typically lasting from a few months to a year, depending on the institution. Stepful’s online program is designed to prepare students for pharmacy technician certification in just four months and includes in-person externships, along with career mentoring, to support a smooth transition into the workforce.

5

Search for Jobs

In Alabama, job seekers can explore opportunities through online job board platforms such as the State of Alabama Personnel Department, the Alabama Hospital Association, as well as job listings from local hospitals, pharmacies, and major job boards.

Networking is also a valuable tool for discovering job openings and gaining insights from industry professionals. To make a strong impression, emphasize your certifications, hands-on training, and passion for the role when applying.

At Stepful, our career coaches offer personalized support, including job search strategies and resume optimization, to help you land a fulfilling pharmacy technician position.

Apply Now
  • Get Hired as a Pharmacy Technician

    Our experienced coaches will help polish your resume, prepare you for interviews, and support you in your full-time job search in Alabama.

  • Pharmacy Tech Classes that Fit your Life

    Our Alabama pharmacy technician course is completely online and includes an optional in-person externship in AL. Part-time and evening classes are available.

  • Supportive Community

    We’re there for you every step of the way. Your instructor, coach, and peers will do whatever they can to help you succeed.
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It works

80% of graduates are employed as medical assistants within 3 months of graduation

Graduate our online medical assistant training program & find jobs at top healthcare companies—just like Stepful’s alumni.
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Monique
New Jersey, New Jersey
The reason I joined Stepful is to pursue my life-long dream of working in the medical field. And they made it happen!
Imani
Brooklyn, New York
This is the first time someone invests in me. Thank you Stepful for the leap of faith.
Juan
Queens, New York
Thank you Stepful for helping me land my dream job as a Medical Assistant in a Doctor's office. I wouldn’t have made it without you.
Jianee
Bronx, New York
Amazing school! Great learning environment! It allows you to apply your skills into the medical field.

Pharmacy Technician Classes at Your Own Schedule in Alabama

Learn online, part-time, and at your own schedule while in AL. Morning & evening classes are available. Get 1:1 support from enrollment to employment.

4 Months

Program length

Part Time

Morning & Evening Classes

$37,030

Average starting salary

NHA-CPhT

Certification

Stepful’s Pharmacy Technician program has received accreditation by ASHP! American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) is the only nationally-recognized pharmacy association that accredits pharmacy technician training programs in the United States. ASHP accreditation represents formal recognition of the high quality of services and care provided by Stepful’s Pharmacy Technician program.

What you'll learn

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Weeks 1-4

Learn the foundational healthcare knowledge you need to become a well-rounded pharmacy technician and start diving into pharmacy practice.

Weeks 5-9

Master the ins and outs of pharmacology and get hands-on with pharmacy calculations and prescription medications.

Weeks 10-14

Prepare for your certification exam and work with your Stepful coordinator to find a clinical externship at a convenient location.

Weeks 15-20

Apply everything you learned online and earn clinical hours in a pharmacy setting. Our experienced coaches will help polish your resume, prepare you for interviews, and support you in your full-time job search.

Alabama Pharmacy Technician Course
Schedule & Upcoming Classes

Start Date
Graduation Date
Timing
Status

Requirements to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Alabama: Certification & Licensing

Understanding the certification and licensing requirements is crucial for those pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician in Alabama. Meeting these standards ensures compliance with state regulations and enhances job prospects. Here's an overview of Alabama’s requirements:
1

Alabama Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements

Although national certification is not mandatory in Alabama, obtaining it can significantly enhance your career opportunities. Certifications from organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) validate your knowledge, skills, and commitment to the profession. 

Becoming certified can also increase job prospects, improve salary potential, and open doors to specialized roles in hospital and clinical pharmacy settings.

2

Alabama Pharmacy Technician License Requirements

To work as a pharmacy tech in Alabama, you must obtain a state license. To do so you must enroll in a Board-approved training program and complete it within six months of registration. Once finished, you are required to submit proof of completion within 10 days. 

Additionally, both you and the pharmacy must maintain these records for at least two years as proof of compliance. If you fail to meet these requirements, your license could be revoked or there may be some disciplinary action. Ensuring timely completion and proper documentation is essential for maintaining your eligibility to work in Alabama.

Alabama Pharmacy Technician Scope of Practice & Common Responsibilities

According to the Alabama Board of Pharmacy, pharmacy technicians must work under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist and have clearly defined responsibilities and limitations to ensure safe and effective patient care. These responsibilities include:

What Pharmacy Technicians Cannot Do in Alabama

Pharmacy technicians in Alabama are prohibited from performing tasks that require clinical judgment or the professional expertise of a licensed pharmacist. These tasks are outside of their scope of work:

  • Conducting the final verification of prescriptions before dispensing.
  • Providing medication counseling and advice to patients.
  • Engaging in any act that involves the exercise of professional judgment by a pharmacist.

What Pharmacy Technicians Can Do in Alabama

Under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, pharmacy technicians in Alabama may perform the following tasks:

  • Managing inventory and cashiering.
  • Processing refill requests for existing prescriptions.
  • Processing insurance claims and handling billing.
  • Receiving and verifying written or electronic prescription drug orders.
  • Assisting in the preparation and dispensing of medications.
  • Providing customer service and addressing patient inquiries.

Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians in Alabama

Salary: $37,030/yr

Average salary in Alabama

Job Outlook: 7% Growth

Nationwide from 2023 to 2033

Local # of Jobs: 8,340

As of May 2023

Alabama employs approximately 8,340 pharmacy technicians, with a relative standard error (RSE) of 2.1%. Based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average certified pharmacy technician salary in Alabama is $37,030 annually, corresponding to an average hourly wage of $17.35.

Across the country, the demand for pharmacy technicians is projected to rise by 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. In Alabama, job opportunities in this field are expected to remain stable due to an aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services.

Pharmacy technicians in Alabama can explore diverse work settings beyond retail pharmacies and hospitals. Opportunities exist in long-term care facilities, pharmaceutical companies, and research organizations, providing a dynamic career path with room for specialization.

In addition to competitive pay, pharmacy technician roles in Alabama often come with flexible scheduling options, including both full-time and part-time positions. Many employers also provide benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, making this profession an appealing choice for those seeking stability and career growth in the healthcare sector.

With a steady job market and opportunities for advancement, becoming a pharmacy technician in Alabama is a promising career path for individuals interested in healthcare and patient support.

Professional Organizations for Pharmacy Technicians in Alabama

Joining professional organizations can be a valuable step in advancing your career as a pharmacy technician. These associations offer access to continuing education, networking opportunities, and industry resources to support your professional growth. Consider connecting with:

  • Alabama Pharmacy Association (APA): This association offers resources, continuing education, and networking opportunities for pharmacy professionals in Alabama.

  • Alabama Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ALSHP): This organization supports pharmacy professionals working in health-system settings, such as hospitals and clinics, by offering resources, continuing education, and networking opportunities.

  • National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): The NPTA provides certification courses, career services, and industry updates to support pharmacy technicians nationwide.

  • American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT): This national organization provides continuing education, networking opportunities, and advocates for pharmacy technicians' roles and responsibilities.

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$166*
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Pay $59 to secure your spot now.

Once the class starts, you will pay $166* per month.
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$249*
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Pay $59 to secure your spot now.

Once the class starts, you will pay $249 every two weeks over 8 payments.
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Pharmacy Technician Program FAQs

What is Stepful?

Stepful provides online training for healthcare careers, including pharmacy technicians. We are on a mission to create economic opportunity for 1 million job seekers in healthcare.

What is included in Stepful’s Alabama pharmacy technician program tuition?
Tuition includes online instructor-led Zoom classes, clinical sessions, PTCB & NHA certification exam prep, dedicated 1:1 coaching and job support services. Exam fees are not included in your tuition.
What is the refund policy?
A student who cancels before the first week of class receives a refund with tuition paid to date with the exception of the $59 non-refundable registration fee. Thereafter, the student who cancels receives a prorated refund.
What are the requirements to enroll in your Alabama pharmacy technician training program?
You need a copy of your high school diploma or GED and a stable internet connection.
What pharmacy technician certifications do you prepare me for?
Our classes prepare you to test for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s Certified Pharmacy Technician exam (CPhT). You will also be prepared to take the National Healthcareer Association's Certified Pharmacy Technician exam (ExCPT).
Is the program online or in-person?

The Pharmacy Technician program is 100% online and is followed by a 130-hour, in-person, unpaid clinical externship near you around Alabama. Stepful has partnerships with pharmacies across the nation and will do its best to find a convenient location for you.

Do you help graduates find a job?

Yes! After you pass the certification exam and complete your in-person externship, our experienced coaches will help polish your resume, prepare you for interviews, and support you in your full-time job search in Alabama.

Do you have a partnership with the National Healthcareer Association?
Yes! Our program is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), a leading credentialing organization in the healthcare industry. Our status as an NHA-Recognized Education/Training Program ensures your full preparation for the NHA Certified Pharmacy Technician (ExCPT) exam.
What tuition payment options are available?
Students have the options to pay upfront or in installments with a flexible payment plan. Stepful offers partial scholarships, reach out to our admissions team for more information.

FAQs About Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Alabama

What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in Alabama?

The median salary for pharmacy technicians in Alabama is $37,030 per year or $17.35 per hour.

Here is a full list of pharmacy technician salaries in Alabama cities:

  • Anniston-Oxford-Jacksonville, AL – $35,480 ($17.06)
  • Auburn-Opelika, AL – $36,660 ($17.63)
  • Birmingham-Hoover, AL – $36,180 ($17.40)
  • Daphne-Fairhope-Foley, AL – $36,340 ($17.47)
  • Decatur, AL – $36,470 ($17.53)
  • Dothan, AL – $35,160 ($16.91)
  • Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL – $35,340 ($16.99)
  • Gadsden, AL – $34,640 ($16.65)
  • Huntsville, AL – $38,030 ($18.29)
  • Mobile, AL – $36,570 ($17.58)
  • Montgomery, AL – $36,760 ($17.67)
  • Tuscaloosa, AL – $36,240 ($17.42)
How do pharmacy technician salaries in Alabama stack up to other locations?

The median pharmacy technician salary nationally is $37,790. Pharmacy technicians in Alabama make slightly less than that at $37,030.

What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Alabama?
Pharmacy technician jobs are projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032 nationwide. This is slightly higher than the national average of 5% but lower than other health technologists and technician jobs (7%).
What are the education requirements for pharmacy technicians in Alabama?
Pharmacy technicians in Alabama must register with the Alabama Board of Pharmacy. This includes completing a Board-approved training program within the first six months after their registration. Alternately, if you pass a Board-recognized pharmacy technician certification examination, that will be accepted in place of the training program.
Do I need a license to work as a pharmacy technician in Alabama?
In Alabama, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy technician trainees must obtain a license through the Alabama State Board of Pharmacy. This requires passing a criminal background check, submitting a current photo or driver's license, and paying a $60 application fee, $40 background check fee, and $4 service fee. Pharmacy technicians in Alabama do not have to be certified.
Where can a pharmacy technician work in Alabama?

Pharmacy technicians in Alabama typically work in retail pharmacies and pharmacies in hospitals. Nationally, around 52% of pharmacy technicians work in pharmacies and drug retailers while 16% work in hospitals.

Your new Pharmacy Technician career starts here

Get 1:1 Support From Enrollment to Employment
Spots are limited. We accept qualified applicants on a first come, first served basis.
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  • 4-Month Online Pharmacy Technician Course

  • Receive your National NHA-CPhT Certificate

  • 100% Online Followed by In-Person Externship

  • Job Interview Prep and Resume Services

  • 1:1 Support From Enrollment to Employment