Course Summary
Course Category: PLC (Further Education - FET) - Apply directly to College
This two year course leads to a Pharmacy Technician Qualification. The Pharmacy Technician assists the pharmacist in the preparation, checking, storage and dispensing of drugs.
The course is intended to equip Pharmacy Technicians with the necessary knowledge and skills to demonstrate professionalism and deliver person-centred care.
.
Award:
Pearson-BTEC Diploma in Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Technicians
Course Details
This course prepares you for working in the following Career Sectors:
What will you study?
-
Students will develop medical knowledge to recognise common illnesses and communication skills to liaise with pharmacists and counsel patients on healthcare issues, including the various healthcare schemes available in Ireland. Students will gain experience in dispensing procedures and practices and will be able to interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing. They will be able to maintain patient records and operate pharmacy computer systems. They will also be able to supply non-prescription medicines in accordance with legislation and guidelines. The course is modular with continuous assessment over the two years
Important
- Colleges may add/remove modules to keep the course updated and to meet demands.
- Almost all PLC courses have a Work Experience module, which requires students to find their own placement in an area directly related to their course.
Progression to CAO Courses
The Student - Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Further Research
Disclaimer: These links are to web sites outside of CareersPortal and we accept no responsibility for the information on them.
Career Progression
Pharmacy Technicians are employed in both the private sector in community and private hospital pharmacies and by the HSE in hospital pharmacies. Other employment opportunities include medical sales for pharmaceutical suppliers.This qualification is recognised in Ireland and the UK. Graduates may have the opportunity to progress to study in the UK and Ireland.