Pharmacy Technician

Diploma

Program Overview

Demand for pharmacy technicians is growing. You will be part of a pharmacy team, filling prescriptions, assisting patients, maintaining records and more. Your focus will be the accurate preparation and delivery of medications to your patient. It’s a career that demands careful attention to detail, a high degree of integrity and lifelong learning. There is zero tolerance for math errors, so you will need to be good at basic math. You will also need to be comfortable following strict procedures and a good communicator who is comfortable talking with patients and other health professionals. Pharmacy technicians have strong organizational skills, are multi-taskers, and utilize precise written and oral communication within their workplaces.

You will find a lot of career doors open to you. Most Saskatchewan Polytechnic grads work in hospitals, but there are also jobs in community pharmacies, drug manufacturing facilities and other businesses involved in medication distribution and support.

Pharmacy Technician is an intensive two-year diploma program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatoon Campus. The program focuses on building your knowledge and skills in:

  • dispensing
  • quality assurance
  • hospital and community pharmacy practice
  • pharmaceutical calculations
  • pharmacy legislation
  • pharmaceutical products
  • sterile product preparation

You will have lectures that provide foundational knowledge, and will also apply your learning in Saskatchewan Polytechnic's well-equipped labs. Experienced instructors provide group and individual instruction, giving you hands-on training and real-world skills.

Hybrid Program Delivery

The Pharmacy Technician Program is provided through hybrid delivery, optimizing your time and providing the perfect balance of at-home and in-person education. Lectures are delivered online synchronously, where instructors are face-to-face, accessible and can easily engage you with an experience true to practice. Imagine accessing and experiencing what is being taught at the same time as your instructor describes it. Learning is easier when you can “do” as you listen, practice on pharmacy software before coming into labs, and meet individually with your instructor when needed. Hands-on is required and you will come to our labs to practice what you have learned, applying learned skills to simulated practice. The hybrid experience provides flexibility for your learning environment, enhancing learning and transitioning smoothly into study and homework. In-person labs and activities ensures you still have the social experience of being with your classmates and instructors.

Work Experience

Two month-long work experiences, one in a hospital and one in a community pharmacy, give you a chance to build your practical skills. It’s also an opportunity to experience, first-hand, the professional expectations placed on pharmacy technicians.

Diploma to Degree

Leverage your diploma into the Bachelor of Applied Management degree at Saskatchewan Polytechnic with only two years of additional study. Remote classes and part-time options are available.   

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Pharmacy technicians work in rural and urban areas, in hospital and community settings. Look for job openings in regional health authorities, hospital pharmacies, community pharmacies and businesses involved in medication distribution or support.

Community pharmacies include pharmacies in grocery stores, department stores and brand name chains. You can also explore job opportunities in veterinary hospitals, home health care, pharmaceutical sales and distribution, quality assurance and companies that administer health plans. The pathway to becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Saskatchewan is available through the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals.

Note

International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this program.

Potential Careers

Sample Job TitleNOC Classification1Earning Potential2
Pharmacy TechnicianOther Medical Technologists and Technicians (Except Dental Health) (3219)$26,600 - $70,200
Pharmacy AssistantOther Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services (3414)$27,100 - $48,100

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September

 

Sue Mack-Klinger, BSP, BSc
Pharmacy Technician Program Head / Instructor
306-659-4091
Sue.Mack-Klinger@saskpolytech.ca

Corri Lewis, BSP
Pharmacy Technician Program Instructor
306-659-4132
Corri.Lewis@saskpolytech.ca

Length:

76 weeks


You have four years to complete the program

Locations

  • Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with a minimum of 70% in each of the following subjects: Pre-calculus 30 or Calculus 30, Biology 30 and Chemistry 30
  • EFFECTIVE FALL 2024: Minimum 70% in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30. 
  • Minimum overall average of 65%.
  • Minimum keyboarding speed of 35 words per minute with 95% accuracy in a 5-minute test period. (Testing is available through Saskatchewan Polytechnic Testing Services).

Note

  • Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate evidence of English language              proficiency which will be based on submission of one of the following for evidence:
    • Language proficiency test results determined by the National Association for Pharmacy Regulatory Authority (NAPRA) language proficiency requirements for licensure as a pharmacy technician in Canada.
    • Graduation from a high school in Canada or a Collège d-enseignement général et professionnel (CEGEP) in Quebec with three consecutive, first language English or French** courses/credits.
    • An undergraduate degree from a university in Canada, where instruction is in English or French.**

**The Pharmacy Technician program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic conducts classroom, lab and clinical/practicum lectures and experiences in English only.

Note

  • Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check including a Vulnerable Sector Search prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check. The cost of the Criminal Record Check is your responsibility.
  • Accepted applicants will be required to provide, at their own expense:
    • An up-to-date immunization record prior to participating in hospital practicum courses. Students may be denied access to hospital sites if immunizations are not current.
  • It is strongly recommended that you obtain Standard First Aid and CPR Heartsaver "A" AED or equivalent as health care practitioners.
  • Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of current N95 respirator mask testing within one year of the hospital practicum. The cost of N95 respirator mask testing is your responsibility.
  • Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of 2015 WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) certification upon admission into the program. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current. The cost of WHMIS certification is your responsibility.

 

 

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.



ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 252 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics
  • 256 Reading
  • 250 Writing
  • 4 Writeplacer

Post-secondary

Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.

If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake. 

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

 

2022/23 Academic Year

Year 1 - $7,325
Year 2 - $8,125

Courses

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Year 1 - Semester 1

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
APHY 160
Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology
3
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You will develop a basic understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. You will discuss the concept of homeostasis. You will acquire knowledge of cells, tissues, organs and all the organ systems of the human body.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): APHY 189
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
COMM 291
Interpersonal Communications
2
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You will develop employability skills through the study of interpersonal communications theory and applications in the workplace. Learning outcomes include the importance of self-awareness and self-esteem, perception problems, verbal and nonverbal messages, and listening skills, creating positive communication climates and resolving interpersonal conflict.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 103, COMM 112, COMM 135, COMM 155, COMM 160, COMM 381, HUMR 182, HUMR 186, JOBS 190, NEPS 114, NURS 114, NURS 163
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery
MATH 168
Introductory Math for Health Sciences
1
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You will review basic mathematical concepts that are needed in a clinical setting to solve drug dosage problems. You will use dimensional analysis as a method of converting units and of calculating dosages. You will learn when to use proportion versus dimensional analysis in clinical problems.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
MICR 110
Microbiology for Pharmacy Practice
2
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You will study the field of microbiology as it applies to pharmacy practice. You will learn about cell biology and microorganisms. You will study how microorganisms affect pharmacy practice and the premise for sterile practice.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
MTER 100
Medical Terminology
1
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You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes and combining forms from which medical terms are derived. You will also learn to use medical abbreviations.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): MTER 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 104
Public Health in Pharmacy Practice
1
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You will examine the role that pharmacy technicians and pharmacy have in public health. You will reflect on the pharmacy technician’s role to promote cultural sensitivity and cultural safety. You will recognize the influence of the determinants of health on marginalized and vulnerable groups. You will discuss how to integrate truth and reconciliation to provide culturally safe care for Indigenous patients.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 182(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 179
Pharmacology for the Pharmacy Technician
2
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You will study drugs within the scope of pharmacy technician practice. You will study how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized and excreted. You will study the different formulations of drugs and its effect on pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, administration routes, dosage forms, stability and shelf life.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 100(concurrent), APHY 160(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 182
Pharmacy Practice
3
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You will become familiar with the role of the pharmacy, pharmacist and pharmacy technician in the health care delivery system. You will learn about the expectations and responsibilities of pharmacy team members. You will study the collection and use of patient information in pharmacy.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 184
Pharmacy Agreements
2
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You will be introduced to pharmacy agreements which guide pricing of medication services. You will manage the financial elements associated with the processing of prescriptions. You will study applicable federal and provincial agreements. You will study pharmacy agreements for Indigenous peoples. You will examine third-party plan coverage and payment requirements for prescription and non-prescription products (including formularies, benefit lists, interchangeable products, co-payment and deductible limits, prescription quantity limits and billing/adjudication issues). You will study enhanced pharmacy services and the guidelines for reimbursement for these services.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MATH 168(concurrent), PHAR 185(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 185
Introduction to Pharmaceutical Calculations
3
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You will perform accurate calculations essential to safe pharmaceutical practice. You will practice pharmacy calculations with the pharmacy requirement of “zero tolerance for calculation errors”. You will determine and calculate medication beyond use and expiration dates. You will interpret problems requiring conversions between systems of measures in pharmacy.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MATH 168(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 187
Introduction to Pharmacy Computer Skills
2
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You will use community pharmacy specific software to perform dispensary functions and understand the role of the computer in pharmacy practice. You will demonstrate accurate listening and transcription skills required for data capture. You will use the community pharmacy specific software to document and manage the data required in pharmacy dispensing.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 179(concurrent), PHAR 185(concurrent), PHAR 184(concurrent), PHAR 182(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
Total semester credits: 22

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
PHAR 105
Introduction to Pharmacy Dispensing Pre-Lab
1
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You will be introduced to the procedures and expectations of a pharmacy technician when preparing prescription orders. You will study pharmacy technician dispensary functions that support the patient and dispensary workflow. You will practice calculations, pricing and record keeping functions used in community pharmacies. You will be introduced to professional communication skills employed in pharmacy practice. This course prepares you for Introduction to Pharmacy Dispensing Lab (PHAR 183) activities.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Corequisites(s): PHAR 183
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 106
Advanced Pharmacy Computer Skills
2
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You will build upon the knowledge and skills developed in PHAR 187 – Introduction to Pharmacy Computer Skills. You will use community pharmacy specific software to perform additional dispensary functions, process advanced prescriptions, and manage the adjudication of prescriptions. You will generate reports to retrieve information required in pharmacy practice.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 187
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 183
Introduction to Pharmacy Dispensing Lab
4
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You will be introduced to prescription dispensing. You will receive, process, and prepare prescriptions in a manner that ensures patient safety through accuracy and quality of the product. You will perform calculations, pricing and record keeping functions used in community pharmacies. You will model professional communication skills employed in pharmacy practice. You will apply laboratory and classroom learning from other courses to manage common aspects of dispensing.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 182, PHAR 184, PHAR 185, PHAR 187, PHAR 179, COMM 291, SFTY 179(concurrent), MICR 110
Corequisites(s): PHAR 105
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online
PHAR 186
Pharmaceutical Products 1
3
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You will be introduced to common pharmacy products prescribed in Canada. Your studies will focus on major classes of prescription medications used in the field of pharmacy (anti-infective, nervous system, respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary). You will become familiar with their classifications, names and use. You will study pertinent pharmacology which applies to the pharmacy technician’s scope of practice.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 160, MTER 100, PHAR 179, PHAR 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 188
Non-Prescription Products
3
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You will study non-prescription products available in Canada. You will recognize the names, classifications, regulation and uses of commonly used non-prescription drugs. You will explain the scope of practice for pharmacy technicians in using information regarding non-prescription products.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 160, MTER 100, PHAR 179
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 192
Pharmacy Management
3
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You will examine the business of retail pharmacy. You will learn about the management, security and operation of community pharmacies. You will study the basics of merchandising and marketing. You will learn how pharmacy location, layout, merchandising, purchasing, inventory management, pricing, and advertising/promotion contribute to pharmacy operations. You will perform calculations for retail pricing and basic accounting. You will study how pharmacy management requires a goal to optimize patient care and the importance of collaboration with the patient and their circle of care.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 182, PHAR 184, PHAR 185, PHAR 194(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 194
Pharmacy Legislation
3
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You will be introduced to how pharmacy technicians act within established legislation, regulations, bylaws, policies and standards in pharmacy practice. You will study federal and provincial privacy legislation and its application to pharmacy. You will study federal legislation for the care of Indigenous peoples relating to pharmacy practice. You will understand the requirement for pharmacy technicians to have basic entry to practice competencies and model standards of practice. You will be able to recognize and learn how to manage unusual patterns of drug distribution.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory
SFTY 179
Safety in Pharmacy Practice
3
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You will be introduced to workplace and safety legislation that affects the pharmacy technician. The course content includes an introduction to WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), hand hygiene, needle safety, OH&S (Occupational Health and Safety) requirements and labour standards. You will review safety and practice legislation and guidelines for Saskatchewan Pharmacy practice. You will study the importance of quality assurance in the workplace to ensure safe outcomes for your patients. You review your responsibilities and ways to address safety and wellness in the workplace. You will receive WHMIS certification in this course.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
Total semester credits: 22

Year 1 - Semester 3

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
PRAC 107
Field Practicum
Show course details
You will participate in a field practicum placement at a Saskatchewan Emergency Medical Services (EMS) organization with an assigned practicing paramedic preceptor. This placement includes participation in EMS orientations, review of relevant policies and procedures, and completions of and compliance with required legal documentation. You will conduct independent patient assessments and use treatment modalities while using ambulance equipment. You will demonstrate and meet lifting requirements. You will demonstrate the various roles and responsibilities of the Primary Care Paramedic as outlined within the National Occupational Competency Profiles (NOCP) for the Paramedic Practitioner of Canada.
Prerequisites(s): EMER 155
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum-Individual
PRAC 118
Community Pharmacy Experience
3
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You will participate in the workflow of a community pharmacy. You will support pharmacy operations and reflect on your role as a pharmacy technician. You will work in the public access area and dispensary of the pharmacy. You will discuss opportunities to practice to your full scope.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COMM 291, SFTY 179
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual
Total semester credits: 3

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
PHAR 204
Advanced Pharmacy Dispensing Pre-lab
2
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You will study the procedures and expectations of a pharmacy technician when preparing complex prescription orders. You will study pharmacy technician dispensary functions that support the patient and dispensary workflow. This course prepares you for the Advanced Pharmacy Dispensing Lab classes.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): PHAR 205
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 205
Advanced Pharmacy Dispensing Lab
4
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You will build on the skills and knowledge you developed in your prerequisite courses. You will learn how to use the computer for filling advanced prescriptions and recording patient monitoring parameters. You will dispense a variety of pharmaceuticals with the focus on practice to the full scope of a pharmacy technician. You will employ the supportive role of a pharmacy technician for advanced pharmacy practice and prescribing authority in Saskatchewan through various practical activities. You will support patient care with effective communication and collaboration within the pharmacy setting.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): MICR 110, PHAR 183, PHAR 194, PRAC 118, PHAR 208(concurrent), PHAR 217(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): PHAR 204
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
PHAR 206
Hospital Pharmacy
3
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You will examine the practice of pharmacy in the institutional setting. You will review the guidelines of hospital pharmacy practice and Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals (SCPP) standards for pharmacy professionals caring for residents in long-term care facilities.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 185, PHAR 194, PRAC 118
Equivalent Course(s): PHAR 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 207
Institutional Pharmacy Lab
4
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You will practice institutionally specific tasks employed in the field of pharmacy. You will apply the knowledge gained from pharmacy practice and hospital practice lectures. This course builds on introductory dispensing techniques.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 183, PHAR 206(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab
PHAR 208
Pharmaceutical Products 2
3
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This course continues your study of major classes of prescription medications used in the field of pharmacy (endocrine, cardiovascular, skeletal-muscular, integumentary, eye/ear and chemotherapy). You will become familiar with their classifications, names and use. You will study pertinent pharmacology such as allergy class, drug – drug interactions and available dosage forms which apply to the pharmacy technician’s scope of practice.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 186
Equivalent Course(s): PHAR 193
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 216
Parenteral Product Calculations
2
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You will accurately perform parenteral calculations essential to safe pharmacy practice. You will solve pharmacy problems related to the preparation and dispensing of parenteral products. You will practice calculations with the requirement of “zero tolerance for calculation errors”.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 185
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 217
Scope of Practice for Pharmacy Technicians
2
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You will study the pharmacy technician’s scope of practice and its application to pharmacy practice in Saskatchewan. You will understand the supportive role of the pharmacy technician to assist patients in accessing appropriate health care. You will study the importance of practicing to the full scope of a pharmacy technician.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
SOCI 171
Culture and Diversity in Canadian Society
3
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You will explore culture and diversity in Canada and the challenges they present. You will discuss the impacts of oppression, multiculturalism, immigration, social inequalities, and social justice at both personal and professional levels. You will discuss the historical and contemporary challenges of Indigenous peoples. You will also examine tools to foster social change and diversity competencies.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
Total semester credits: 23

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
COM 104
Teamwork and Collaboration
3
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You will develop collaborative and teamwork skills and apply them to pharmacy technician practice, including effective research skills, professional documentation and a collaborative approach to decision-making in a health team.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 209
Non-Sterile Compounding Pre-Lab
3
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You will study the regulation of non-sterile compounding. You will review common terminology, references used and documentation requirements. You will examine the use of excipients in compounds and determine the effect of adapting compound formulation records. You will research information required for compounds made in the Non-Sterile Compounding Lab.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): PHAR 210
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 210
Non-Sterile Compounding Lab
4
Show course details
You will build on the skills and knowledge from your prerequisite courses. You will apply information from the lectures in Non-Sterile Compounding. You will be introduced to the principles of compounding and will prepare a variety of pharmaceuticals. You will prepare formulation records using appropriate references. You will use compound records to document your work and transfer them to the pharmacy computer database. You will adjust compound formulations in collaboration with the pharmacist. You will employ proper tools and techniques to produce quality and elegant pharmaceutical compounds.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 204, PHAR 205, PHAR 213(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): PHAR 209
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
PHAR 211
Sterile Compounding Lecture
3
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You will learn how using aseptic technique in sterile product preparation is a critical component of safe pharmaceutical care. You will learn the principles involved in preparing pharmaceuticals under aseptic conditions. You will learn the theory behind the procedures of sterile compounding.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 205, PHAR 207, PHAR 213(concurrent), PHAR 216
Corequisites(s): PHAR 212
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 212
Sterile Compounding Lab
3
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You will receive group and individualized instruction in the preparation of sterile products under aseptic conditions. You will apply the knowledge from your sterile compounding pre-lab lectures to aseptic practice in a lab. You will practice special techniques involved in preparing hazardous sterile preparations. You will prepare and assess sterile products for technique, accuracy and quality of the final product.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 205, PHAR 207, PHAR 213, PHAR 216
Corequisites(s): PHAR 211
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
PHAR 213
Advanced Pharmacy Calculations
2
Show course details
You will accurately perform advanced pharmacy calculations essential to safe pharmaceutical practice. You will solve pharmaceutical problems related to dilutions and compounding. You will practice pharmacy calculations with the pharmacy requirement of “zero tolerance for calculation errors”. You will apply accurate calculations to advanced prescriptions and check the calculation work of others.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 205, PHAR 207, PHAR 216
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 214
Pharmacy Practicum and Career Preparation
2
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You will identify the steps to becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Canada. You will prepare a professional resume, be prepared for job interviews and practicums. You will evaluate your employability skills.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): COMM 291, PHAR 204
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PHAR 218
Interprofessional and Intraprofessional Practice for Pharmacy Technicians
2
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You will discuss the importance of collaboration in providing competent care for patients. You will address the challenges of collaboration and participate in an interprofessional activity with other health care students and in an intraprofessional activity with pharmacist students. You will discuss methods to seek feedback and apply it to self-improvement. You will assess yourself through self-reflection and demonstrate competency in collaborative activities.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PHAR 183, PHAR 217, COM 104(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
Total semester credits: 22

Year 2 - Semester 6

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
PRAC 484
Community Practicum
11
Show course details
You will practice as a pharmacy technician intern under the guidance and supervision of preceptor(s) in a community pharmacy. You will apply your knowledge of community pharmacy dispensing to actual practice. You will practice with the computer software systems and resources found in the community pharmacy to deliver professional pharmacy service. You will perform dispensary and front store functions required for pharmacy service. You will maintain patient confidentiality. You will effectively communicate with your patient, collaborate with the pharmacist and other healthcare providers to provide competent care. You will practice to your full scope of practice. Placements will be assigned in locations across the province.
Credit Units: 11
Course Hours: 160.0
Prerequisites(s): COM 104, PHAR 188, PHAR 208, PHAR 209, PHAR 210, PHAR 211, PHAR 212, PHAR 213, PHAR 214, PHAR 218
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
PRAC 485
Hospital Practicum
11
Show course details
You will practice as a pharmacy technician intern under the guidance and supervision of preceptor(s) in a hospital. You will demonstrate aseptic technique to prepare sterile drug products. You will perform drug distribution, inventory, and checking functions required of a pharmacy technician in a hospital setting. You will maintain patient confidentiality and demonstrate professional behaviour. You will practice to your full scope of practice. Placements will be assigned in locations across the province.
Credit Units: 11
Course Hours: 160.0
Prerequisites(s): COM 104, PHAR 188, PHAR 208, PHAR 209, PHAR 210, PHAR 211, PHAR 212, PHAR 213, PHAR 214, PHAR 218
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
Total semester credits: 22

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.


Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.

Accreditation

Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP)

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Pharmacy Technician program is fully accredited by the Canadian Council of Accreditation of Pharmacy program. This qualifies you to write the national Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) qualifying exam.  With a PEBC Pharmacy Technician Certificate of Qualification, you can seek licensure in provinces that regulate pharmacy technicians. You’ll earn a higher wage and be able to apply for more jobs as a licensed pharmacy technician. 

The Pharmacy Technician Program of Saskatchewan Polytechnic has been awarded Accreditation Status by the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2027.

Our Vision

Be the leading educator of pharmacy technicians in Saskatchewan and integral in achieving optimal drug therapy outcomes for all.

Our Mission

Prepare our students to competently practise pharmacy and meet the needs of our stakeholders (patients and their families, regulatory authorities, industry and government).

Additional Information

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