An online associate degree in pharmacy program may provide students with the skills and training needed to assist licensed pharmacists dispense prescription medication. Students enrolled in these two-year programs may learn how to package and label prescriptions, mix medications, and gather medical information from patients and other healthcare professionals. Coursework may include several general education requirements alongside electives and core courses, such as pharmacy management, pharmacology, and medical terminology.

Graduates may seek entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in a baccalaureate-level program in pharmacy. Associate degree graduates may find employment opportunities at hospitals, clinics, drug stores, and pharmacies.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 32% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online associate degree program in pharmacy may include a handful of general education requirements along with major-specific courses and electives. In these two-year programs, students may learn how to update patients’ medical records, communicate with insurance companies, and assist pharmacists with filling prescriptions. Core online pharmacy courses may include the following:

• Pharmacology
• Sterile Products
• Hospital Pharmacy
• Pharmacy Trends
• Pharmacy Management
• Medical Terminology
• Anatomy and Physiology

Career Options

Graduates of online associate-level programs in pharmacy may find jobs at pharmacies, drug and grocery stores, hospitals, and clinics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as pharmacists are expected to increase by 32% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Pharmacy Technician
• Clinical Medical Assistant
• Phlebotomist
• Lab Medical Assistant
• Medical Secretary

Continuing Education

Graduates of online associate-level programs in pharmacy may continue their education and enroll in a baccalaureate-level program in pharmacy. In these four-year programs, students may gain additional training on pharmaceutical operations to become pharmacists. Employers may hire individuals who have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, certain states may require pharmacy technicians have passed certain regulations, such as pass a criminal background check and receive forma training, as well as certification from either the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook