Pharmacy Technician

The Vancouver Island University Pharmacy Technician program is delivered using a blend of online theory courses, in-person lab classes and practicum hours in both hospital and community. The program is 15 months in length and consists of three theory semesters, one lab semester, and ten weeks of practicum.

Students take online theory courses through a partnership with Selkirk College. Then take lab courses at the VIU Cowichan campus. The VIU lab courses run for eight weeks. In the lab courses, students prepare for the practicum by practicing all the tasks a pharmacy technician is responsible for in the workplace.

Pharmacy technicians work collaboratively with pharmacists and members of the health care team in the promotion of wellness, disease prevention, and the management of chronic diseases. Pharmacy technicians are responsible and accountable for ensuring accuracy in product preparation and release. Graduates have the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to meet the entry-level competencies defined by the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA).

Admission Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

What You’ll Learn

• Practice within legal requirements, demonstrate professionalism and uphold professional standards of practice, codes of ethics and policies.
• Participate in meeting the patient’s health goals and drug-related needs by establishing caring and professional relationships.
• Contribute to a safe, effective and efficient product distribution and release in the practice setting.
• Support health promotion activities for patients, communities and populations in collaboration with the pharmacist and other health professionals.
• Make theory-based and evidence-informed decisions in practice, ensuring safe and effective product distribution.
• Collaborate with members of the intra- and inter-professional health teams to support the delivery of comprehensive services and ensure continuity of care.