7 Reasons to Become a Pharmacy Technician in 2025

7 Reasons to Become a Pharmacy Technician in 2025

What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?

Key Responsibilities in Healthcare Settings

Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists to prepare and dispense medications, manage inventory, process insurance claims, and support patient care. In many ways, they are the right-hand support to pharmacists and often a critical link in ensuring patient safety and satisfaction.

Daily Work Environments and Tasks

You’ll find pharmacy technicians in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. Daily duties include:

• Receiving and verifying prescriptions
• Counting and labeling medications
• Entering patient and insurance data
• Assisting customers and answering non-clinical questions
• Preparing sterile or non-sterile compounds

The Growing Demand for Pharmacy Technicians

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Enter the Field

• More accessible than other healthcare careers
• Provincial and national regulation ensures job credibility
• Healthcare systems are expanding technician roles to reduce pharmacist burden

7 Reasons to Choose a Career as a Pharmacy Technician

1. Quick Entry into Healthcare
Most programs, like the one at Excel Career College, can be completed in 52 weeks or less, making this one of the fastest ways to enter healthcare.

2. Competitive Salary & Benefits
In Canada, certified pharmacy technicians can earn $25–$33 per hour according to WorkBC, with potential for overtime and health benefits.

3. High Job Stability and Growth
Healthcare is a consistently stable field, and pharmacy technicians are in growing demand due to their versatility.

4. Multiple Work Settings to Choose From
Whether you prefer retail environments, hospital wards, or specialty pharmacies, you’ll find a fit that matches your personality and lifestyle.

5. Helping Patients and Making a Real Impact
Though not clinical decision-makers, pharmacy techs play a key role in patient education and medication safety.

6. Potential for Career Advancement
With certification, experience, and further training, pharmacy techs can even transition into administrative roles.

7. National and Provincial Recognition
In BC, pharmacy technicians must be registered with the College of Pharmacists, which boosts the profession’s credibility and growth potential.

Excel Career College’s Pharmacy Technician Program

Program Overview and Duration

Excel Career College offers a comprehensive 52-week diploma program that aligns with Canadian pharmacy technician standards, including guidelines from NAPRA and CCAPP.

Curriculum Highlights and Practical Training

You’ll study:

• Pharmacy Law and Ethics
• Pharmacology
• Medication Preparation and Compounding
• Hospital Pharmacy Operations
• Community Pharmacy Operations
• Pharmacy Software Applications

You’ll also complete hands-on lab training and a Community Practicum and an Institutional Practicum.

Career Opportunities and Salary Expectations

Where You Can Work After Graduation

• Retail pharmacies (E.g., Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, London Drugs)
• Hospital pharmacies
• Specialized clinics and long-term care homes
• Research facilities and drug manufacturers

Pay Ranges and Advancement Potential

According to WorkBC:

• The median wage for pharmacy technicians in British Columbia is around $25.00/hour.
• Typical wage range spans from $22.00/hour to $33.00/hour, depending on your experience, location, and employer.

As you gain experience and certifications, there’s significant room for career advancement.

Is a Pharmacy Technician Career Right for You?

If you’re ready to step into a meaningful, in-demand healthcare role, then becoming a pharmacy technician is an excellent choice. With the right training and support from Excel Career College, your future in healthcare can start as soon as today.