Pharmacy courses in Sunshine Coast
Course providers in Sunshine Coast
The following providers offer Pharmacy courses in Sunshine Coast.
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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
- Graduate Certificate in Pharmacy Practice
- HLT47115 Certificate IV in Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours)
- HLT47815 Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing
- Graduate Certificate in Clinical Pharmacy
- SIRCIND002 Support the Supply of Pharmacy Medicines and Pharmacist Only Medicines
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity)
- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (Dispensary)
- Bachelor of Medical Studies
- Bachelor of Science (Pharmacology)
More about Pharmacy courses
Discover a variety of Pharmacy Courses in Sunshine Coast that cater to both beginners and experienced learners. The Sunshine Coast, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant community, also offers a robust selection of educational opportunities in the pharmacy field. Whether you are starting your journey with a Certificate III in Retail (SIR30216) or advancing your studies with a degree in related sciences, there is a path suited to your aspirations.
For those with prior experience or qualifications, the Sunshine Coast boasts advanced courses such as the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology), and Bachelor of Biomedical Science. These qualifications provide specialised knowledge and skills that are highly sought after in the pharmaceutical industry, preparing you for various roles within healthcare and research environments.
As you explore further into the pharmacy sector, you can also delve into specific study areas that complement your career goals. Courses in Drug and Alcohol Testing, Medical Administration, and First Aid can enhance your professional skill set. For those interested in cutting-edge fields, consider studies in Cosmetic Surgery or Oncology, which are increasingly relevant in today's healthcare landscape.
On the Sunshine Coast, numerous training providers offer these pharmacy courses, ensuring that you receive quality education recognised across the industry. Additionally, specific areas of study like Healthcare Support Services, Occupational Therapy, and Midwifery are also available, allowing you to tailor your education to your interests and career ambitions. Embark on your professional journey today with the right pharmacy course in the magnificent Sunshine Coast area.