LSU Alexandria to offer pharmacy technician program at LSUE

Louisiana residents now have another option when looking to obtain training as a pharmacy technician thanks to a new partnership between LSUA and LSUE.
With Louisiana Department of Labor data indicating 252 current job openings for pharmacy technicians statewide and a total of 46 current job openings in the LSUA/LSUE service areas, the two schools are making it easier than ever to earn a degree in the field.
In an effort to meet the demand for pharmacy technicians, LSU Alexandria will offer pharmacy technician classes on the campus of LSU Eunice beginning fall 2016. Courses will be offered via compressed video conferencing as well as online. A pharmacy technician student laboratory will be set up on the campus of LSUE so that students will not have to travel to the LSUA campus for laboratory classes.
LSUA’s Pharmacy Technology program is a competency-based educational program designed to provide for the development of skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to function as a pharmacy technician in the health care delivery system. Competency attainment includes skills in oral and written communication, computer literacy, and skills related to pharmacology, law, calculations, and pharmacy management.
The 41 credit-hour curriculum was developed in compliance with the American Society of Health System Pharmacists’ (ASHSP) guidelines for Pharmacy Technology Programs. LSUA’s Pharmacy Technology Program is ASHSP accredited.
A pharmacy technician is a health care provider trained to perform pharmacy-related functions while working under the direct supervision of licensed pharmacists.
Pharmacy technicians are employed in a variety of locations including retail, hospital, and long-term care facilities. Pharmacy technicians may also work for pharmaceutical manufacturers, third-party insurance companies, computer software companies, or in government or teaching positions.
Students interested in pursuing the Certificate in Pharmacy Technology should contact:
Department of Allied Health, LSU Alexandria, 8100 Hwy 71 S, Alexandria, LA 71301, phone 318-473-6466; or
Division of Health Sciences and Business Technology, LSU Eunice, 2048 Johnson Hwy., Eunice, LA 70535, phone 337-550-1357.