CIP Code: 51.0805 (PGWP eligible)
Behind Every Prescription: Your Skill, Their Well-being
Launch your career in the dynamic world of pharmacy with Confederation College's two-year Pharmacy Technician program. As a Pharmacy Technician, you'll play a crucial role in ensuring patients receive the right medications and support. This comprehensive program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various pharmacy settings, from hospitals to community pharmacies.
Confederation College’s Pharmacy Technician Program offers a comprehensive, hands-on curriculum aligned with the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) Professional Competencies for Canadian Pharmacy Technicians at Entry to Practice.
Students will develop essential skills based on the NAPRA competencies, which include:
- Patient Care
- Product Distribution
- Knowledge and Expertise
- Communication and Collaboration
- Leadership and Stewardship
- Professionalism
To practice as a Pharmacy Technician in Ontario, graduates must successfully complete the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) qualifying exams and the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP) jurisprudence exam, meeting licensing requirements set by the Ontario College of Pharmacists. Pharmacy Technicians in Ontario will register with the Ontario College of Pharmacists.
As per the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP) standards, students must complete the Pharmacy Technician Program within four years of admission.
Given the demands of the profession, applicants should possess strong critical thinking, mathematical, and English communication skills, as well as a commitment to life-long learning.
The Confederation College Pharmacy Technician Program has been awarded provisional accreditation status by the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP).
Additional Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate language proficiency by meeting one of the following requirements.
- Language proficiency test results that meet the NAPRA Language Proficiency Requirements for Licensure as a Pharmacy Technician in Canada; or
- Graduation from a high school in Canada with three consecutive full years, first language English courses/credits; or
- An undergraduate degree or college diploma from a university or college in Canada, whose instruction was provided in English.
Field Placement Requirements
After admission, but prior to attending each field placement(s), students are required to:
- Obtain a clear police check with vulnerable sector screening. Vulnerable Sector Screenings must be issued within six months of each placement start date.
- Successfully complete and regularly renew a recognized course in CPR (Health Care Provider level)
- Successfully complete and regularly renew a recognized course in standard first aid
- Undergo a mask fit testing provided by Confederation College
- Obtain pre-clearance health form completed by a physician or nurse practitioner stating that the student meets the health requirements of legislated acts, ministry guidelines and agency policies
All of the above requirements must be in effect for the duration of each placement
Top Highlights
- Professional Recognition: Eligibility for registration with the College of Pharmacists of Ontario upon graduation.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain practical skills through clinical placements working alongside experienced Pharmacy Technicians.
- Accredited Program: Meet industry standards and prepare for real-world challenges with our accredited curriculum.
- Comprehensive Training: Master pharmaceutical theory, procedures, pharmacology, and medication management.
- Career-Ready Skills: Develop the expertise needed to contribute effectively in various pharmacy settings.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Pharmacy Technician program, you'll have the skills to:
- Communicate effectively with clients and healthcare professionals.
- Assess medication needs across different age groups.
- Plan and execute safe and competent pharmacy services.
- Perform pharmaceutical interventions with clinical judgment.
- Evaluate the outcomes of your interventions and adjust care plans accordingly.
- Act ethically and professionally in your pharmacy practice.
- Adapt to various pharmacy settings and demonstrate leadership as needed.
- Contribute to a safe and healthy work environment.
- Practice in compliance with regulatory standards and ethical guidelines.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Succeed in the Pharmacy Technician program if you are:
- Detail-oriented: Meticulous in handling medications and following protocols.
- A Strong Communicator: Able to interact effectively with patients, pharmacists, and healthcare professionals.
- Tech-Savvy: Comfortable working with pharmacy software and dispensing systems.
- Ethical: Committed to maintaining patient confidentiality and adhering to professional standards.
- Adaptable: Capable of working in various pharmacy settings and handling diverse responsibilities.
Graduates of the Pharmacy Technician program can pursue diverse roles, including:
- Hospital Pharmacy Technician
- Community Pharmacy Technician
- Long-Term Care Facility Pharmacy Technician
- Pharmaceutical Company Representative
- Pharmacy Inventory Specialist
- Compounding Pharmacy Technician
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