Pharmacy Assistant

This comprehensive program provides students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work effectively in a pharmacy setting. Topics covered include basic pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, prescription processing, inventory management, customer service skills, and pharmacy law and ethics. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on training, students will develop proficiency in dispensing medications, communicating with patients, handling prescriptions, and understanding common drug interactions. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates will be prepared for entry-level positions as competent and knowledgeable pharmacy assistants in various healthcare environments. Online classes are live, instructor-led classes that include a practicum.

Upcoming Intakes
September 14, 2026 September 2026 (Online - Evening) Starting Soon
November 2, 2026 November 2026 (Online) Starting Soon

Program Highlights

Duration 16 weeks / 388 hours (including 120 hours work experience)
Work Experience Hours 120
Curriculum

What you'll learn to do:

  • Recall knowledge of medical terminology, pharmaceutical products, including brand and generic names, uses, and side effects.
  • Demonstrate accuracy to process prescriptions, including data entry and medication dispensing procedures.
  • Summarize regulations related to controlled substances handling and storage.
  • Develop skills in inventory management, including ordering and restocking medications.
  • Assist pharmacists in patient consultations regarding medication instructions and potential interactions.
  • Develop the ability to effectively engage with customers and offer support in addressing their medication-related questions and concerns.
  • Gain proficiency in operating pharmacy software systems for prescription processing.
  • Ensure adherence to pharmacy laws and ethical standards in all interactions with patients and healthcare professionals.
  • Implement proper techniques for labeling, packaging, and organizing medication supplies.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in operating a cash register, handling cash transactions and process payments and other products.
Certification Certificate
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code 51.0805 - Pharmacy technician/assistant
Compliance Pharmacy Assistant was reviewed and approved by the registrar of The Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) within the System Integrity Branch (SIB) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

Please note that this program does not lead to employment in a career occupation regulated by a regulator.

Admissions Requirements

  • All candidates must meet with an admissions advisor before enrollment.
  • Candidates must provide ALL of the following supporting evidence prior to acceptance:

    Age Requirements

    Be a mature student (19 years of age or older). Parents or legal guardian consent is required for students under 19 years of age.

    Language Proficiency Requirements

    • Candidates must provide ONE of the following:
      • Evidence of three years of full-time secondary instruction (Grade 8–12 or BC Adult Graduation Program) in English OR two years of full-time post-secondary education at a recognized institution listed under Approved English Speaking Countries. Language courses, such as English as a Second Language (ESL), cannot be considered in this calculation.
      • Evidence of achievement in a recognized standardized language test or assessment at an overall level equivalent to IELTS 5.5 (Academic) or higher, such as:
        • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT: Overall score of 46
        • Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP): Listening 6, Speaking 6, Reading 5, Writing 5
        • Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Overall score of 40
        • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A): Overall score of 43
        • Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum overall score of 95
        • Cambridge Linguaskill, LANGUAGECERT Academic, The Michigan English Test (MET): Minimum overall B2 level
        • iTEP Academic: Minimum overall score of 3.5
        • EIKEN: Minimum placement of Grade Pre-1

Work Experience

  • Successful completion of all theoretical courses and workshops with a minimum 75% grade in each course
  • Clear criminal record check
  • Immunizations in the following are strongly recommended and may be required for clinical placement in the program: 2 doses of COVID vaccine, Influenza (required annually)

Tuition and Fees

Tuition $4,935
Fees:
Books $555
Scrubs / Uniform $165
Administrative Fee $90
Application Fee $250
Total Tuition and Fees $5,995

Payment plans are available for all programs, interest-free , typically split into 4 equal monthly payments of approximately $1,499.

Funding is available for those who qualify.

Reviews

Reviews from verified graduates of this program collected via Google. See all school reviews →

Feb 2026
Scott O

Took the pharmacy assistant course. Super interesting. What a difference it makes when your instructors care!

Feb 2026
Simranjeet K

__Update Via Email on August 7, 2026__ _Editorial Note: Simramjeet emailed the school, sharing the amazing news that they got hired at a major Pharmacy Chain. The position had not been posted to job boards yet. But due to our hard working Job Search Coordinator, Mary Rees, the interview tips from our Job Club, and the thourough training from our Pharmacy Assistant program, Simranjeet impressed management and got the job!_ ``` I just wanted to give you a quick update and let you know that everything is going very well at work. I'm really enjoying the experience and learning something new every day. The team has been very supportive, and I'm becoming more confident with my responsibilities. Thank you again for all your help and support in helping me secure this opportunity. I truly appreciate it. Have a great day! Kind regards, Simranjeet K ``` __Original Review via Google Maps on February 1, 2026__ ``` I had an amazing experience at this college. The instructors are supportive, knowledgeable, and truly care about student success. The learning environment is welcoming and motivating. I’m really grateful to be part of such a great community. ```

Jan 2026
Yogita K

The pharmacy assistant course is very informative and practical. The staff are supportive, knowledgeable, and always ready to help.

Oct 2025
Gneb F

I am proud to share that I have successfully completed my Career Development in Pharmacy Assistant program at Elevare Career Institute within six months. My experience has been truly rewarding and inspiring. Elevare Career Institute offers a comprehensive and up-to-date curriculum that effectively prepares students for real-world practice. The instructors are knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely dedicated to student success. The director is highly accommodating and understanding, always ensuring that every student feels supported throughout their learning journey. What stood out most for me was the welcoming and encouraging environment—I always felt appreciated and motivated to do my best. The team at Elevare made studying enjoyable and manageable, especially while balancing work and school responsibilities. I highly recommend Elevare Career Institute to anyone who wishes to pursue a rewarding career in the healthcare field. They provide not only quality education but also genuine care and guidance that empower students to achieve their goals.