Pharmacy Assistant

The Pharmacy Assistant certificate/diploma course is a foundational, skill-based vocational program. It is designed to train individuals to support licensed pharmacists in daily healthcare, retail, and hospital operations.

Students learn key operational aspects of pharmacy management, including:

Processing prescriptions and handling non-prescription medications under supervision.
Inventory management, stock maintenance, and medical supply chain tracking.
Medical billing, insurance claims processing, and store management software.
Patient communication, safety protocols, and basic drug classification.

Diploma: 1 Year
A one-year diploma program designed to provide students with essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills for entry-level career opportunities.
Advanced Diploma: 2 Years
A two-year advanced program offering in-depth subject knowledge, advanced practical training, and greater industry exposure.
Degree: 3 Years
A three-year undergraduate degree program providing comprehensive academic knowledge, practical learning, and broader career opportunities in the chosen field.

Duration Summary:
Diploma – 1 Year | Advanced Diploma – 2 Years | Degree – 3 Years

Internal Assessment (20% – 30% Weightage):
- Periodic class tests and assignments.
- Attendance, conduct, and lab workbooks.
Theory Examinations (40% – 50% Weightage):
- Written semester/annual exams assessing knowledge of drug names, medical terms, and retail regulations.
Practical & Viva-Voce (30% – 40% Weightage):
- Practical demonstrations (reading prescriptions, identification of dosage forms, billing software usage).
- Oral examination (viva) and internship evaluation report.

Core Modules & Subjects

Module 1: Fundamentals of Pharmacy Practice
- Introduction to healthcare systems and pharmacy practice areas (Hospital vs. Retail).
- Medical terminology, abbreviation decoding, and body systems basics.
Module 2: Basic Pharmacology & Drug Classification
- Common drug categories (analgesics, antibiotics, antacids, etc.).
- Dosage forms (tablets, syrups, ointments, injections) and routes of administration.
Module 3: Inventory Control & Store Management
- Stock receiving, expiry management (FIFO/FEFO principles), and storage conditions (cold chain).
- Purchasing, billing, and handling pharmacy software applications.
Module 4: Ethics, Safety & First Aid
- Basic drug laws, OTC vs. prescription-only rules, and patient privacy.
- First-aid basics, sterilization procedures, and safe handling of hazardous materials.