All careers

Pharmacy Courses in Box Hill

Physiotherapy
Podiatry

Pharmacy courses in Box Hill

Career Pathfinder

Skills shortages + AI Exposure

Discover in-demand careers and understand how each role may be impacted by AI and automation.

A tool for students to:
  • See in-demand occupations across Australia
  • Check AI Exposure ratings
  • Compare training duration and average income

Common questions

Often known as a ‘chemist’, a community pharmacy provides medication, healthcare advice, and retail products to customers. It’s a key component of the pharmacy industry which also comprises hospital pharmacy and industrial pharmacy.

What is the outlook for the community pharmacy sector?

With an aging population and an increase in chronic diseases, community pharmacies provide an essential service for almost every town and city in Australia. As the first port of call for health concerns, there are 443.6 million individual patient visits to pharmacies each year, making it a key part of the healthcare sector.

What roles are available in community pharmacies?

There are a number of roles in community pharmacies, including:
  • Pharmacists
  • - Who dispense medications, advise customers, and ensure patient safety.
  • Pharmacy Technicians
  • - Who assists pharmacists with dispensing and customer service.
  • Pharmacy Assistants
  • - Who helps with customer service, sales, and some dispensing tasks.

What is the role of a pharmacy assistant?

Pharmacy assistants work in customer service, process sales, and may assist with dispensing medications under pharmacist supervision.

What qualifications are required for pharmacy assistants?

Under the Quality Care Pharmacy Program (QCPP) a minimum S2/S3 certification is required to handle over-the-counter and pharmacist-only medications.

What is the role of a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy Technicians help pharmacists prepare and dispense medicines. In a community pharmacy, technicians are also often involved in customer service duties and provide medical advice to customers under the supervision of the pharmacist on duty.

How do I become a pharmacy technician?

To meet the requirements of the Pharmacy Board of Australia, a Cert IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary or SIRSS00012 Community Pharmacy Dispensary qualification is recommended.

Why should I consider a career in pharmacy?

Pharmacy careers offer:
  • Flexible working hours.
  • A mix of healthcare and customer service.
  • Opportunities for career advancement.
  • A stable and growing job market.

How can I enter the pharmacy industry?

An S2/S3 certification is a great way to get your foot in the door of the pharmacy industry. Completed online in as little as two days, this qualification does not require you to currently work in a community pharmacy and equips you to supply pharmacy medications and assist the pharmacist in the dispensary with the supply of pharmacist only medications.

What career pathways are available in the pharmacy industry?

You can progress from a pharmacy assistant to a senior role, become a pharmacy manager, or pursue further education to become a pharmacist. Other opportunities include hospital and industrial pharmacy roles.

Are there job opportunities in community pharmacies?

Yes, community pharmacies exist in cities, towns, and rural areas, ensuring employment opportunities nationwide.There are currently 39,900 pharmacy assistants and 6900 pharmacy technician positions in Australia, and the sector is growing.That said, it is a sought after part of the retail sector, with qualifications such as the S2/S3 allowing you to stand out from the crowd.

What skills are important for working in a pharmacy?

Author Image Cassandra Charlesworth

Further reading

Career Pathways for Graduates After Studying a Diploma of Nursing and a Bachelor of Nursing

4th October 2024

Most popular health courses

29th June 2022

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

More about Pharmacy courses

Box Hill, located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, is a hub for healthcare education, particularly in the field of Pharmacy. For those seeking to embark on a rewarding career in this sector, a range of pharmacy courses are available that cater to both beginners and experienced learners. With 18 courses on offer, students can select from comprehensive vocational training as well as higher education options to match their aspirations.

For individuals starting their journey in pharmacy, the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116 are highly regarded. These beginner courses provide foundational knowledge and skills necessary for roles such as Pharmacy Assistant or Retail Pharmacist, setting the stage for a successful career in this vital industry.

Experienced learners can advance their careers by enrolling in more specialised courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 or the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT. These courses equip students with advanced skills essential for roles such as Pharmacy Manager or Clinical Pharmacist, allowing them to excel in various settings, including hospitals and community pharmacies.

Notable training providers in Box Hill include the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Spectra Training, and local universities like Monash University and RMIT University, offering state-of-the-art facilities and expert instructors. These institutions ensure that students receive quality education and hands-on experience directly related to the job market in Box Hill and beyond.

Furthermore, Box Hill is home to various specialised areas of study, providing learners with options such as Nutrition and Dietetics, Aromatherapy, and Obstetrics and Gynaecology. By exploring different fields, students can find their niche within the health sector, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers. Whether you seek vocational training or an advanced degree, Box Hill offers a robust selection of courses to meet your educational goals in the pharmacy field.