Houston City College Expands Pathways to Pharmacy Careers with New North Forest Campus Program
By Francis Page, Jr.
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October 27, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — In another bold stride toward accessible, high-demand workforce training, Houston City College (HCC) has announced the expansion of its Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate Program to the HCC–North Forest campus beginning Spring 2026. The move extends a legacy of healthcare excellence pioneered by HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences, the only HCC campus dedicated exclusively to health professions within the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. Empowering Houston’s Future Health Workforce HCC’s one-semester Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate offers an accelerated route into the healthcare industry, providing students with the skills needed to succeed in Houston’s ever-growing medical marketplace. Designed for anyone with a high school diploma or GED, the program offers a quick and affordable entry point into a field that continues to expand as the city’s population—and its need for healthcare professionals—grows. “It’s an attractive option for anyone looking to start a healthcare career,” said Janet Peña, HCC Pharmacy Technician Program Director. “The demand for pharmacy technicians continues to grow, especially as the population ages. It’s also a great option for those who want to work in healthcare without providing direct patient care.” A Smart Investment in a Stable Career According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level pharmacy technicians can earn a minimum starting salary of $33,000 annually, with higher wages in the Houston region. Peña emphasized that because the program is offered through HCC, students enjoy an affordable tuition model and access to financial aid—making the certificate an investment that quickly pays off. Expanding Access Across Houston The expansion to HCC–North Forest follows the program’s successful debut at HCC Eastside in Spring 2025, which served students south of Interstate 610. Now, residents of northeast Houston will enjoy the same opportunity to train for a healthcare career close to home. “People of all ages want a credential that offers immediate employment and a livable wage,” said Dr. Jeff Gricar, Dean of Health Sciences at HCC Coleman College. “But they also need programs that fit their lives—close to work, close to home, and flexible. That’s exactly why we’re opening the North Forest site.” A Pathway to Lifelong Learning The Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate is more than just a job credential—it’s the start of a career ladder in healthcare. Many graduates go on to earn Level II certifications, associate degrees, and even bachelor’s degrees in healthcare fields, building on their initial success. “Once they start working, most of our students return to continue their education,” Gricar added. “This program creates a foundation that grows with their ambitions.” Join Houston’s Healthcare Revolution For Houstonians eager to join one of the fastest-growing sectors in the city, this program offers a golden opportunity to begin a career in healthcare without the burden of years-long schooling. Learn more or apply today: WEB: hccs.edu/PharmacyTech • Call: 713-718-7665 • Email: co.PharmacyTech@hccs.edu
About HCC Coleman College Located in the Texas Medical Center, HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences offers more than 20 health-focused certificate and degree programs, including a Bachelor of Applied Technology. Since 1999, the college has set the gold standard for allied health education in Houston. hccs.edu/Coleman About Houston City College HCC is one of the largest singly accredited, open-admission community colleges in the nation, with 14 Centers of Excellence and numerous satellite locations serving Greater Houston. Through workforce training, associate and bachelor’s degrees, and continuing education, HCC prepares individuals to thrive in an increasingly global and technological society. hccs.edu
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