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Pharmacy Technician

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Program Code: 07731
CIP Code: 51.0805
PGWP Eligible: Yes
Credential: Diploma
Start Dates: January, May, September
Program Length: 4 semesters
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Outcomes: View All
Pathways: Explore Pathways
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Program Overview

Humber’s Pharmacy Technician diploma program prepares graduates for various careers in pharmacy including community, hospital, industry and long-term care settings.

Benefit with hands-on learning in simulated labs with low student/teacher ratios and expert faculty who are active in the pharmacy profession. In addition, learn from guest speakers who are pharmaceutical industry experts.

Courses are designed in consultation with practising pharmacy professionals and focus on key competency categories such as legal and ethical responsibilities, patient care, product distribution, health promotion, knowledge application, communication, intra- and inter-professional collaboration, and safety. Students apply their learning in simulated labs and during placements, providing valuable and practical experiences.

Work-Integrated Learning  

Mandatory provide important workplace experience and industry contacts. Students will complete two unpaid five-week mandatory professional practicums under the supervision of a pharmacist/technician in Semester 4, one in a retail/community pharmacy and one in a hospital pharmacy setting. Students will be offered a selection of approved placement sites and will rank their preferences. Every effort will be made to place students at one of their preferred sites. Hospital pharmacy professional practicums may be outside of the Greater Toronto area.

Visit Future Students > Work-Integrated Learning > to learn more about your WIL power and other success stories.

Also take time to explore the digital Faculty of Health Sciences & Wellness Student Handbook to learn foundational WIL concepts, plus requirements specific to this program.

paramedic students holding a gurney with a training dummy on it

Watch the video to learn what is work-integrated learning.

Professional and Community Partnerships

Humber maintains strong partnerships within industry – participating employers in the work experience program continually praise graduates’ aptitude and work readiness.

The Humber Advantage

State-Of-The-Art Facilities

The labs are fully equipped and are for the exclusive use of the Pharmacy Technician students. Knowledge gained in lecture courses forms the basis for dispensing skills that are practiced in the pharmacy labs. Students spend at least one quarter of their scheduled time in the lab learning and practicing all the required dispensing and compounding skills.

two people smiling looking at computer in pharmacy

View Pharmacy Technician Labs 

Injection Training is part of the Curriculum

student practicing injecting a needle

Humber College is the first college in Ontario that offers injection training as part of the curriculum to Pharmacy Technician students. Students complete an injection certification training and are able to administer injections upon graduation and licensing, thus increasing employability.

Learn More 

We Know What It Takes

Humber College was one of the first Ontario colleges to offer Pharmacy Assistant training and advanced to the current accredited Pharmacy Technician program. Graduates are working in community pharmacies and hospitals, spanning from front-line staff to leadership roles, across Ontario solidifying Humber’s high caliber of education. Instructors, all experts in their respective fields in pharmacy practice, bring their unique knowledge and skill to best prepare graduates.

The Humber Experience

The Right Fit

Are you a detail-oriented self-starter who enjoys working with people? If you are, and have strong math and interpersonal skills, a career as a pharmacy technician could be a great fit for you.

Testimonials

Interested in Pharmacy Technician at Humber College yet want to know more before enrolling?

Let's GO! 

Math Proficiency

To assist in describing the math proficiency level in this program, view the sample math questions.

Sample Questions 

Mission

The Pharmacy Technician program prepares career ready graduates with the skills, knowledge and professional ethics necessary to promote the health and wellness of the communities they serve.

Vision

Lead Pharmacy Technician education through the embodiment of professional standards, excellence in teaching and learning, and commitment to student success.

Pharmacy Technician Registration Information

Graduates from the Pharmacy Technician program at Humber College must be registered with the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP) to practice as Pharmacy Technicians in the province of Ontario.

Information on Pharmacy Technician Registration 

Your Career

Begin a career where you play a critical role in contributing to patient care as a pharmacy technician.

Our graduates are in demand and have numerous opportunities to contribute to the health and well-being of Canadians. The need for pharmacy technicians remains strong, with an aging population that requires more medications and retirements of existing workers.

Pharmacy technicians have multiple responsibilities including filling and final release of prescriptions, medication reconciliation, compounding medications and managing day-to-day operations. Pursue opportunities in various settings such as community/retail and hospital pharmacies, long-term care facilities, pharmaceutical manufacturers, third-party insurance companies, computer software companies and government agencies.

Professional Accreditations & Recognition

Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP)

The Pharmacy Technician Program of Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning has been awarded the status of Full Accreditation by the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP) for a five year term July 1st, 2022 – June 30th, 2027. View the Strategic Plan of this program. 

In order to practice as a Pharmacy Technician in the province of Ontario, an individual must successfully complete the Qualifying Exam with the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC), and be registered with the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP).

Additional requirements may apply.

Note: The requirements for the additional credential(s) are determined by the granting body, which is independent from the College. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements directly from the granting body before enrolling.

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Program Availability

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
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Humber is a publicly funded institution. International students graduating from a PGWP Eligible program at Humber are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International students in Canada could be eligible for an automatic scholarship*.  Apply now!

Check out the step-by-step Admissions Road Map for helpful information and additional resources.

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Jan 2025 Course-Based North Closed
May 2025 Course-Based North Open
Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Course-Based North Open
Jan 2026 Course-Based North Opening Soon
May 2026 Course-Based North Opening Soon

Humber is a publicly funded institution. International students graduating from a PGWP Eligible program at Humber are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International applicants outside of Canada can apply through Humber International. Check out the step-by-step Admissions Road Map for helpful information and additional resources.

Upcoming Recruitment Events

Pharmacy Technician Program - A profession in demand

Two pharmacy tech students looking at information on a computer

Watch the video to hear about the Pharmacy Technician Program and how it prepares graduates for various careers.

Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber Polytechnic reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

GET YOUR $125 APPLICATION FEE BACK*

Apply On Us This September!

Apply through OCAS between June 14 - July 19, 2024 and be registered full-time on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 and receive a $125 credit equal to the domestic application fee.

To qualify, get started by filling out the APPLY ON US form.

*This promotion is open to domestic applications for the September 2024 program intakes only. Offer not valid for existing applicants or applications.

International Students with a valid Study Permit or Letter of Introduction (LOI)* can receive a Waiver Code to cover the $100 September 2024 application fee.

Bringing You Our A-Game

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How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by July 15, 2024 to receive your Application Fee Credit. Applications for September will remain open as long as the program availability status shows Open.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Contact Us

Admissions Questions

General Enquiries

Call 416-675-3111 or email enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Sandra Gerges, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 4595
sandra.gerges@humber.ca

Campus Information

Book a campus tour to take a closer look at what it's like to be a student at Humber.

Want More Info?

Find out more about the student experience and everything that Humber has to offer Future Students.

for more info on Humber, including programs, special events and more!

How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an Apprentice

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP 

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Need Advice?

Program Advising Appointments

Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

Transfer & Pathway Advising

Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following two requirements:

  • Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent including these required courses:
      • Grade 12 English (ENG4C or ENG4U or equivalent)
      • Grade 12 Mathematics (MAP4C, MCT4C, MDM4U, MCB4U, MGA4U, MCV4U or MHF4U or equivalent)
      • Grade 11 or Grade 12 Biology (SBI3C, SBI3U or SBI4U or equivalent)
      • Grade 11 or Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH3U, SCH4C or SCH4U or equivalent)

    or

    or

     

    Note: Language proficiency is an essential skill required for all pharmacy technicians, therefore additional verification of language proficiency may be required. A pharmacy technician’s ability to communicate is critical in the delivery of safe and effective patient care. For this reason, applicants whose first language is not English must meet the specific English Language Proficiency scores for the Pharmacy Technician program. Applicants being admitted on the basis of one of the following must possess:

    • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) – Overall Band 6.5
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL IBT) – 91
    • Michigan English Language Arts Battery (MELAB) – 81
    • Specific band scores and/or element scores also apply

    For details visit Language Proficiency Requirements for Licensure as a Pharmacy Technician in Canada and http://www.ocpinfo.com/registration/training-exams/language-proficiency

    Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

Placement Requirements

The pre-requisite requirements must be fulfilled before the commencement of your first placement. Participation in placements will not be allowed if not all the pre-requisite requirements are met. Due to the variety of venues and possible changes in legislation, the requirements are subject to change. Please use the following link to find detailed information about your program’s placement pre-requisite requirements.

View Requirements

Equipment & Device Requirements

Semester 1

Details and Specifications Minimum Specifications Recommended Specifications
Processor Intel i5-8300H (PC)
4-core or higher 64bit (Mac)		 Intel i5-8300H (PC)
4-core or higher 64bit (Mac)
OS Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)		 Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)
Memory 8GB of RAM 8GB of RAM
Storage 256GB 256GB
Monitor Laptop Laptop
Other Built-in microphone and webcam, Software: Adobe creative and Microsoft office Suite Built-in microphone and webcam, Software: Adobe creative and Microsoft office Suite

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Sandra Gerges, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 4595
sandra.gerges@humber.ca

Fees & Financial Aid

The 2024/2025 fee for two semesters was:

  • domestic: $4,129.65
  • international: $17,599.17

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees International Fees

Additional Costs

$2,000 - textbooks and supplies over duration of the program. It is strongly recommended that students have access to an Internet-enabled laptop/computer or similar device.

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources.

Scholarships

Humber Scholarships

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships. International students can visit International Student Scholarships.

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

  • Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
  • Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.
View Transfer Out Opportunities From This Program  
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