Program Highlights
Pharmacy Assistants work in community pharmacies, long-term care centers, and hospitals. Pharmacy Assistants compound and formulate ointments, solutions, and medications under the supervision of pharmacists. Pharmacy Assistants maintain prescription records and inventories of medications and pharmaceutical products.
- Fundamentals of Pharmacy Practice
- Medical Terminology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Compounding
- Calculations
- Pharmacy software
- Community Pharmacy Practice
- Institutional Pharmacy Practice
- Pharmacology
- Career Preparation
*Source: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/wages-occupation/4482/ca
What will the program be like, and what do Pharmacy Assistants do?
Pharmacy assistants are an integral part of the health care system. They provide assistance to Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians. Pharmacy Assistants can work in a wide variety of environments including community pharmacies, long term care facilities, or hospitals. The Pharmacy Assistant program will teach you everything you need to know to be successful in any of these settings.
- Dispense medication
- Compound pharmaceuticals
- Receive orders
- Fill and label medication
- Perform inventory counts
- Confirm deliveries
- Prepare invoices
- Maintain patient records
Career Opportunities
Find a career in the following fields and locations:
- Pharmacy Assistant
- Pharmacists Assistant
- Pharmacy Technician Assistant
- Family Place Worker
6 Week Practicum Placement
As part of the Pharmacy Assistant program, you will complete a 240 hour (6 week) practicum placement. You'll have the opportunity to work in a community or institutional pharmacy setting.
This placement will provide you with opportunities to build your skills in the field. You’ll integrate your learning from the program with real life experience. Practicums are jointly-procured. You’ll work with our practicum team to make sure you find the right practicum for you. You’ll network with potential employers, have more agency over your placement setting, and gain valuable career skills.
What Our Students Have to Say
Trust the Process
Angelyn P.
Great School
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What is the Job Outlook for Pharmacy Assistant in Calgary?
Great news for Pharmacy Assistants:
There are plenty of opportunities for steady, high-paying positions available both now and in the future.
According to Alberta Labour, the assisting occupations in support of health services occupational group is expected to have an above-average annual growth of 3.1% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 169 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
In other words, if you’ve been searching for a career that will allow you to work in a professional healthcare environment with opportunities for growth… or if you’re just ready to finally earn the kind of salary you deserve… becoming a Pharmacy Assistant is a fantastic way to earn more money while advancing yourself in your career.
Can I Qualify for Financial Aid?
Many applicants—such as those with children, those who didn’t work last year, and those who recently arrived in Canada—will qualify for free grants automatically, and even those with a high income will usually qualify for some aid.
In short: if you’re worried about the cost of the program, schedule a time to chat with an Admissions Advisor. They can help give you a better idea of how much financial aid you will qualify for.
What Makes ABES Different from Other Schools?
- As a small, privately owned school, ABES guarantees hands-on training for every student.
- Unlike other schools, all our programs offer practicum in the Calgary area—making it easier for you to stay local. (Many students get their first job offer while they’re still on practicum)
- Finally, we stand out for our extensive connections in the medical community. Thanks to our relationships with local healthcare facilities and other prominent employers, our graduates have an easy road to employment.