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High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Clinical Healthcare: Pharmacy Technician

Clinical Healthcare: Pharmacy Technician

The Clinical Healthcare: Pharmacy Technician program empowers students to explore, innovate, and lead in the field of clinical healthcare. Grounded in equity, rigor, and real‑world relevance, the program cultivates curiosity, critical thinking, and compassion by integrating advanced coursework with experiential learning. Preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals requires strong academic foundations in science and medicine, as well as an ethic of service, cultural competency, and a commitment to improving community health outcomes.

Through partnerships with hospitals, universities, and industry organizations, the program provides students with clear pathways to college, careers, and lifelong learning while addressing the growing need for skilled healthcare professionals. Designed for students interested in working directly with patients, this pathway offers hands‑on preparation for careers in clinical healthcare. Students progress through integrated science coursework and clinical training, leading to industry‑recognized credentials as a Certified Pharmacy Technician. Work‑based learning experiences, internships, and partnerships with local hospitals and nursing facilities ensure authentic clinical exposure in healthcare settings.

 

Core Experiences

  • Participation in Future Health Professions Association (HOSA) activities, conferences and competitions
  • Hospital and nursing home volunteering
  • Earning industry certification
  • Lunch and learn sessions
  • Medical science field trips
  • Medical professions mentors & guest speakers
  • Career advising and exploration

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
    Equip students with a strong academic foundation in healthcare and pharmaceutical sciences practices through rigorous, standards-based coursework.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
    Engage students in experiential learning through labs, simulations, compounding and dispensing practice, internships, and industry partnerships to build practical skills and career readiness.
  3. Foster Career and College, Career and/or Community Pathways
    Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and/or careers in healthcare by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and mentorship from industry professionals.

 

Application and Locations

Selection Process: Interest-based application

Schools:

  • Region 6: Clarksburg

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Pharmacy Technician Program. Cells in green are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

 

Grades 6–8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Career Advising and claiming of RIASEC themes.

Career Exploration

Summer Enrichment & Preparation
Biology with integrated Foundations of Medicine and Structures Science Science Elective
Technology Credit Pharmacy Technician 1 Pharmacy Technician 2 Pharmacy Technician 3 or Work-Based Learning, Internship or Dual Enrollment
World Language World Language World Language or General Elective World Language or General Elective
U.S. History NSL Government World History Elective
English English English English
Algebra 1 or higher Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics
Elective (PE or Fine Arts) Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health) Elective

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students mustmust complete the following to remain enrolled in the Pharmacy Technician Program and earn the related certificate:

  • 1 credit Honors Biology with integrated foundations of medicine
  • One of the following two options:
    • 3 Credits Pharmacy Technician (1, 2 & 3) or
    • 2 credits Pharmacy Technician plus related work based learning or internship