Pharmacy courses in North Geelong
Course providers in North Geelong
The following providers offer Pharmacy courses in North Geelong.
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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?
- Retail and customer service skills
- Attention to detail
- Empathy and discretion
- Cert III in Community Pharmacy
- Cert IV in Community Pharmacy
- Cert IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary Experience and training can also lead to leadership or specialised roles.
How can I advance my pharmacy career?
Gain additional qualifications, such as the:
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Further reading
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- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy
- SIR40216 Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary
- HLTSS00064 Infection Control Skill Set
- SIRSS00030 Introduction to Community Pharmacy Skill Set
- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (Dispensary)
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours)
- Bachelor of Science (Pharmacology)
- 10737NAT Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science
- Master of Clinical Pharmacy
- Graduate Certificate in Health Research
- Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)
- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (Front of House)
- HLT47121 Certificate IV in Hospital or Health Services Pharmacy Support
More about Pharmacy courses
If you are looking to pursue a career in the pharmacy field, North Geelong has a variety of Pharmacy courses to suit both beginners and experienced learners. With 18 courses available in the area, you can find suitable options that cater to your educational background and career aspirations. The courses offered include Vocational Education and Training (VET) and Higher Education programmes, designed to equip you for diverse roles within the pharmacy sector.
For beginners with no prior experience or qualifications, North Geelong offers several popular Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116, Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, and Certificate III in Retail SIR30216. These introductory courses provide a solid foundation for those seeking to enter the workforce in entry-level positions within the pharmacy. Enrolling in these courses opens up opportunities for roles such as pharmacy assistants and retail pharmacy workers.
For experienced learners looking to advance their careers, North Geelong hosts a variety of advanced courses, including the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT. These qualifications are perfect for individuals aspiring to take on more specialised roles in the pharmacy environment, such as pharmacists or pharmacy managers. Other advanced options include the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and the Diploma of Clinical Aromatherapy HLT52315.
Several reputable training providers operate in or near North Geelong, making it more convenient for students to pursue face-to-face learning. Notable providers include the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, ACOD, and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, all of which offer high-quality pharmacy courses. Educational institutions such as RMIT University and Monash University also provide opportunities for students seeking higher education in pharmacy-related fields.
In addition to traditional pharmacy courses, there are many specialisations available for those keen to expand their knowledge. Explore areas such as Aromatherapy, Occupational Therapy, and Nutrition and Dietetics that complement pharmacy expertise. With the wide range of options available in North Geelong, you can find the right course that propels you into a rewarding career in the pharmacy field.