Prerequisites: 

The Pharmacy Practicum is in the second semester of the program. The student must have completed the following prerequisite courses with a “C” or higher prior to their practicum semester:

• Essentials of Medical Terminology, HPRS 1206
• Student Success for Health Professionals, HPRS 1171
• Introduction to Pharmacy, PHRA 1201
• Pharmaceutical Mathematics, PHRA 1309
• Community Pharmacy Practice, PHRA 1313
• Institutional Pharmacy Practice, PHRA 1349

The student must also have either completed or be currently enrolled in the following co-requisite courses:

• Pharmacy Drug Therapy and Treatment, PHRA 1441

Note: these courses are required to complete the Level I certificate.

In addition to the above academic requirements, students must have completed the following immunization requirements:

• • Hepatitis-B Series (3 injections)
  • Varicella
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella
  • Measles (Second Vaccination)
  • Tetanus/Diphtheria
  • Meningitis (if applicable)
  • Received a non-reactive, two-step, (TB) PPD (Purified Protein Derivative) skin test for Tuberculosis prior to their practicum semester. Documentation of the two-step PPD skin test must be made on a completed ACC TB Form. Should their TB skin test be determined to expire prior to the end of their practicum semester, they will be required to complete a single-dose, repeat skin test. Paperwork for the TB skin test is to be obtained from the Practicum Coordinator.
  • The student may also be required to have influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations as required by the clinical site.

McCartney, Lisa. "Pharmacy Technician Practicum Student Workbook - Program guidelines, expectations, and evaluation criteria". Austin Community College, 2022-2023.

Course Description: 

Practical, general workplace training supported by an individualized learning plan developed by the employer, college, and student. An intermediate or advanced type of health professions work-based instruction that helps students gain practical experience in the discipline, enhance skills, and integrate knowledge. The emphasis is on practical work experience for which the student has already acquired the necessary theoretical knowledge and basic skills. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional, generally a clinical preceptor. A health practicum may be a paid or unpaid learning experience. Students are assigned to a hospital or other health-system pharmacy for 16 hours each week for eight weeks and a community pharmacy setting for 16 hours each week for eight weeks to meet established objectives by performing pharmacy technician duties under the supervision of the on-site pharmacist. This is an unpaid learning experience.

Course Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate personal/interpersonal knowledge and skills 

1. Demonstrate foundational pharmacy knowledge and skills 

1. Demonstrate processing and handling of medications and medication orders 

1. Explain the pharmacist and pharmacy technician’s role in the patient and medication safety practices and quality assurance 

1. Demonstrate regulatory and compliance knowledge and skills