Pharmacy Technician Diploma

At Red Deer Polytechnic, tuition is International students pay $18,645.00 in Year 1 and $15,820.00 in Year 2, based on recommended course load..

This program prepares for a regulated role as a pharmacy technician in Alberta. Work occurs alongside pharmacists and healthcare teams in hospitals, community pharmacies, and long-term care settings. The curriculum covers medication safety, prescription processing, compounding techniques, and professional ethics. Learning includes dosage calculations, pharmacy system management, and following legal and safety standards in real-world practice.

Instruction happens in simulation labs that match actual pharmacy environments. Two full-time practicum placements are required: 160 hours in a community pharmacy and 200 hours in a hospital pharmacy. These placements let you apply classroom knowledge under supervision. Hands-on experience includes preparing prescriptions, managing inventory, and working within regulated workflows. The program builds confidence and readiness for professional practice.

A high school diploma with courses in biology, chemistry, math, and English is needed to enter. International applicants must meet NAPRA language requirements and show proof of English proficiency. After graduation, passing the PEBC exam and registering with the Alberta College of Pharmacy is required to become a licensed technician. The program is accredited by CCAPP and prepares for immediate workforce entry.