How to Earn Pharmacy Tech CE Credits Online

Earning CE Credits Has Never Been Easier

With the growth of online education, pharmacy technicians have more options than ever to fulfill their continuing education (CE) requirements. Whether you prefer self-paced modules, live webinars, or interactive courses, this guide will help you find the best resources for earning CE credits efficiently and affordably.

Understanding ACPE Accreditation

The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) is the gold standard for pharmacy CE accreditation. When choosing CE activities, look for the ACPE logo or accreditation number to ensure your credits will be accepted by the PTCB and your state board of pharmacy. ACPE-accredited activities automatically report to CPE Monitor, making record-keeping seamless.

Top Online CE Platforms for Pharmacy Techs

Several reputable platforms offer CE specifically designed for pharmacy technicians:

PowerPak (powerpak.com): One of the most popular sources for free ACPE-accredited CE. Offers modules on medications, pharmacy law, patient safety, and more.
Pharmacy Times CE: Provides both free and paid CE activities on a wide range of pharmacy topics.
FreeCE.com: Offers free CE funded by educational grants from pharmaceutical companies.
RxSchool: Provides interactive, case-based CE activities designed for technicians.
PTCB: Offers its own CE activities through the PTCB portal, including some free options.

Live Webinars and Virtual Conferences

Live CE events offer interaction with presenters and the opportunity to ask questions. Many pharmacy organizations now offer virtual options:

ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists): Hosts conferences with pharmacy technician tracks
NPTA (National Pharmacy Technician Association): Offers webinars and an annual conference
State pharmacy associations: Many host annual meetings with CE sessions for technicians

Employer-Sponsored CE Opportunities

Many pharmacy employers provide CE as part of professional development. Large chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart offer in-house training programs that may count toward CE requirements. Hospital pharmacies often provide regular in-service training that qualifies for CE credit. Ask your employer about available CE programs and whether they cover the cost.

Tips for Efficient CE Completion

Create a CE calendar: Map out when you will complete each activity throughout your recertification cycle
Knock out requirements first: Complete your pharmacy law and patient safety hours early
Match CE to your interests: Choose topics that enhance your daily practice or career goals
Keep screenshots and certificates: Even though CPE Monitor tracks ACPE activities, maintain your own backup records
Set reminders: Use your phone or calendar to alert you of upcoming deadlines

Verify Your CE Is Being Tracked

After completing an ACPE-accredited activity, log into CPE Monitor to verify the credit appears on your transcript. Credits typically post within 24 to 48 hours. If a credit does not appear, contact the CE provider directly. For non-ACPE activities, keep certificates of completion in a dedicated folder.

Invest in Your Professional Growth

Continuing education is not just a requirement; it is an opportunity to grow your skills, stay current with industry changes, and advance your career. Many pharmacy technicians use CE to explore specialty areas like sterile compounding, oncology, or informatics.

Start your PTCB exam preparation today at PTCBprep and take advantage of our free practice questions.