Pharmacy Technician Practicums
Hands-on experiences open doors to meaningful, local careers
Beginning a career as a pharmacy technician requires more than just theoretical knowledge. Practical experience is essential for students to excel in this field, and COCC’s Pharmacy Technician program stands out for the well-rounded education it provides. With a focus on diverse occupational settings, such as retail, hospital, and compounding pharmacies, COCC equips its students with invaluable hands-on experience. The program’s partnerships with renowned institutions and the guidance of experienced pharmacists ensure that students receive comprehensive training.
"Getting to experience what I would be doing as a pharmacy technician was invaluable and showed me the variety of options out there for certified pharmacy technicians." — Troy Gallagher, COCC Pharmacy Technician graduate
One of the standout features of the program is the wide selection of practicum opportunities. Students can work in various settings, including with St. Charles Health System, Walgreens, Walmart, Fred Meyer, Westside Pharmacy, Community Pharmacy, Central Oregon Compounding, Albertson’s/Safeway, Bimart, and Pacific Source. These varied workplaces expose students to different aspects of pharmacy practices, broadening an understanding of the profession.
By experiencing different environments, COCC’s Pharmacy Technician students gain invaluable insights into the nuances of each setting they may find themselves working in. In retail pharmacies, students learn about prescription dispensing, patient counseling, and medication management. At hospitals, students witness the intricacies of working in a fast-paced health care setting, focusing on tasks such as medication preparation, inventory management, and collaborating with other professionals. Additionally, the exposure to compounding pharmacies enables students to understand the precise science of creating customized medications, which demands meticulous attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols.