Pharmacy assistants work in retail and hospital pharmacies, supporting pharmacists with prescription processing, dispensing, inventory, and customer service. It's detailed work that requires accuracy, good product knowledge, and clear communication with people who have medication questions.
This 27-week program gives you the skills for that role. You'll learn pharmaceutical terminology, prescription processing, drug dispensing procedures, inventory management, and pharmacy software -- plus how to handle controlled substances and follow relevant pharmacy laws.
Work experience is built in -- 100 hours in a pharmacy setting before you graduate.
Apply by June 15, 2026
Program Highlights
| Duration | 27 weeks / 550 hours (including 100 hours work experience) |
|---|---|
| Work Experience Hours | 100 |
| Curriculum | What you'll learn to do:
|
| Certification | Diploma |
| 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 (minimum 19 years of age) OR a Grade 12 graduate (parent/guardian consent required if 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
Background and Health Requirements
- Clear criminal record check
-
Immunizations in the following are strongly recommended and may be required for the work placement portion of the program:
2 doses of COVID vaccine, Influenza (required annually)
Tuition and Fees
| Tuition | $7,730 |
| Fees: | |
| Assessment Fee | $100 |
| Books | $385 |
| Scrubs / Uniform | $140 |
| Administrative Fee | $5 |
| Application Fee | $250 |
| Total Tuition and Fees | $8,610 |
| Payment plans are available for all programs, interest-free , typically split into 6 equal monthly payments of $1,435. Other funding options may be available for students who qualify. | |
Reviews
Reviews from verified graduates of this program collected via Google. See all school reviews →
Took the pharmacy assistant course. Super interesting. What a difference it makes when your instructors care!
The pharmacy assistant course is very informative and practical. The staff are supportive, knowledgeable, and always ready to help.
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.