All careers

Pharmacy Courses in Carlton

Physiotherapy
Podiatry

Pharmacy courses in Carlton

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

For those looking to enter the pharmacy profession in Carlton, there are a variety of courses tailored to suit both beginners and experienced learners. With a total of 18 Pharmacy courses available, prospective students can find the right pathway to kickstart or advance their careers in this vital healthcare sector. Beginners may consider enrolling in the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy, both of which offer foundational skills necessary for working in community pharmacy settings.

Experienced learners have the opportunity to further their education with advanced courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice. These qualifications can enhance career prospects and open doors to specialised roles within the pharmacy field, such as pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, and optical dispensers.

The presence of reputable training providers in Carlton ensures that students receive high-quality education and training. Institutions such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, who delivers the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, and ACOD, providing the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing, are excellent options for students seeking face-to-face learning experiences. Additionally, renowned universities like RMIT University and The University of Melbourne offer higher education courses such as the Bachelor of Biomedical Science and the Master of Biotechnology.

With diverse course offerings that cater to a range of career aspirations, students in Carlton can explore various educational pathways in pharmacy. Those aiming for a comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical sciences might consider degrees such as the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) or the Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology). The pharmacy industry in Carlton not only fosters a supportive community for learners but also presents a wealth of job opportunities within the region.

For anyone considering a career in pharmacy, Carlton offers an ideal blend of beginner and advanced courses along with access to esteemed training providers. Whether you are just starting or looking to elevate your professional qualifications, enrolling in these pharmacy courses could be your first step toward a rewarding career. To view the full list of available pharmacy courses and find a suitable option, visit Pharmacy Courses in Carlton.