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Pharmacy Technician
Open to International Students
Area of study
Health & Human Services
Credential
Diploma
Program Length
2 Years | Full time
Open Virtual TourProgram Overview
CIP Code: 51.0805
The Pharmacy Technician Diploma program prepares students to work collaboratively with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals in various pharmacy practice settings. The curriculum is designed by specialized pharmacy experts to reflect the current scope of practice and emerging healthcare trends and technologies. It focuses on the core competencies of everyday pharmacy technician practice and aligns with the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP) Accreditation Standards.
Core Information
Program Highlights
- Comprehensive Training: Covers pharmaceutical calculations, drug distribution, sterile and non-sterile compounding, and pharmacy operations.
- Hands-on Learning: Training in a simulated pharmacy lab with real-world equipment.
- Regulatory Preparation: Prepares students to write the PEBC Qualifying Exam.
- Industry-Recognized Credential: Graduates will meet the requirements to become registered pharmacy technicians.
- Practicum Placement: Students gain real-world experience in a pharmacy setting.
Career Outcomes
- Community pharmacies
- Hospitals
- Health insurers
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Drug suppliers and wholesalers
Entry Requirements
- Manitoba high school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent.
- Grade 12 Math (40S) with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Grade 12 English Language Arts (40S) with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Grade 12 Biology (40S) with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Grade 12 Chemistry (40S) with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
International Students
- High school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent.
- International applicants must meet the general entrance requirements based on country/curriculum of study.
- Senior level Math with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Senior level First Language Literature with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Senior level Biology with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- Senior level Chemistry with a grade of 60 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
- All high school grades will be converted to an equivalent Manitoba grade scale.
Find out more about Admission Requirements. For pre-practicum requirements, check out the FAQs below.
English Language Proficiency
To be considered for admission to this program, applicants must meet one of the following English language proficiency requirements:
- Language proficiency test results that meet the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) Language Proficiency Requirements for licensure as a Pharmacy Technician in Canada; OR
- Graduation from a Canadian high school with three (3) first language English or French courses within a maximum of three (3) consecutive semesters; OR
- Graduation with an undergraduate degree from a university in Canada, where instruction was provided in English or French.
For more information, see the English Language Proficiency page.
Tuition and Fees
| Estimated Program Costs (International) | Year 1 | Year 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $7,266 | $7,266 |
| Fees | $1165 | $1,145 |
| Estimated Textbook Costs | $600 | $400 |
| Total Estimated Program Costs | $9,031.00 | $8,811.00 |
Costs are estimates and are subject to change. Visit Tuition and Fees and Textbooks and Supplies for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Students complete a practicum placement in a professional pharmacy setting. This allows them to apply classroom learning in a real-world environment and gain industry experience before graduation.
To be eligible for practicum, students must meet the following requirements:
- Clear Police Information Check (PIC)/Vulnerable Sector (VS) Check (completed in Manitoba, valid for six months)
- Clear Child and Adult Abuse Registry Checks (valid for six months, covering practicum duration)
- Current, approved immunization record as per WRHA guidelines
Additional notes:
- Students must meet all clearance requirements, or they may be ineligible for practicum placement and program completion.
- Students are responsible for all costs associated with these clearances.
- Clearance documents must be obtained within the timelines specified by MITT.
- Students are covered by Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) insurance during their practicum.
MITT has extensive ties in industry and works with recognized community and institutional partners to provide our students with meaningful practice experiences. These partnerships include organizations such as, but are not limited to:
- Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA)
- Southern Health–Santé Sud
- Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority
- Prairie Mountain Health Authority
- Northern Regional Health Authority
- St. Boniface General Hospital
- Sobeys National Pharmacy Group
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Walmart Pharmacy
Yes. Students and graduates may benefit from engaging with the following organizations:
Yes, we offer campus tours. Explore our Campus Tour options.
Yes, financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Explore financial aid options.
Textbooks and Supplies
A complete supply list and textbook information can be found on the Program Information page.
Laptop Requirements
Students must bring a Tier 2 laptop for this program. More information and technical specifications are available on the Laptop and Technical Needs page.
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Learn more about this program
Fill out this form, and one of our helpful recruitment experts will contact you to discuss your goals, answer your questions, and guide you through the next steps.
Pharmacy Technician
All Courses
Introduction to Pharmacy Practice (PT-110) — 84 hours
This foundational course explores the principles of pharmacy practice and the roles of pharmacy professionals in patient-centered care. Students learn about pharmacy workflows, Latin abbreviations, and evidence-based medicine, as well as reliable health information retrieval and evaluation. The course also covers patient experiences within the healthcare system.Computer Usage (PT-175) — 24 hours
This course introduces students to essential computer applications, including Excel, OneDrive, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word. Students gain practical experience with these programs while completing assignments designed to enhance their technical proficiency.Student Success Strategies (PT-224) — 12 hours
This seminar equips students with tools to excel in post-secondary education. Topics include effective note-taking, reading strategies, time management, and stress reduction. Research skills and test-taking strategies are also emphasized to support academic and personal success.Introduction to Microbiology (PT-115) — 42 hours
Students explore the fundamentals of microbiology, with a focus on bacteria. Topics include microbial diversity, metabolism, and medical microbiology concepts such as disease transmission and resistance.Communication Skills for Pharmacy Technicians (PT-120) — 84 hours
This course develops communication skills essential for interacting with patients, coworkers, and healthcare professionals. Students explore verbal, non-verbal, written, and electronic communication techniques, emphasizing empathetic and respectful engagement with diverse populations.Pharmaceutical Calculations I (PT-130) — 84 hours
This course provides a comprehensive review of foundational mathematical concepts essential for pharmacy technicians. Topics include measurement systems, conversions, and drug product label interpretation. Students practice dosage calculations for oral and injectable medications, including adjustments for special patient populations and treatment regimens.Pharmaceutical Calculations II (PT-140) — 84 hours
Building on the foundations of Pharmaceutical Calculations I, this course introduces advanced calculations related to prescription pricing, third-party insurance payments, extemporaneous compounding, and injectable medication administration.Human Body Systems and Disease States I (PT-150) — 84 hours
This introductory course covers medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology of various human body systems. Students also learn about the pathophysiology of common diseases and conditions, laying a strong foundation for further studies.Human Body Systems and Disease States II (PT-160) — 42 hours
Expanding on the content of Part I, this course explores the remaining human body systems and common diseases affecting each. Students deepen their understanding of anatomy, physiology, and disease mechanisms.Culture and Diversity in Canadian Society (PT-170) — 42 hours
This course provides an overview of historical and contemporary influences on culture and diversity in Canada. Students develop intercultural competence by examining multiculturalism, inequality, social justice, and Canadian workplace culture.Pharmacy Law and Ethics I (PT-180) — 84 hours
Students gain a foundational understanding of pharmacy laws, regulations, and ethics. The course highlights the roles, responsibilities, and scope of practice of pharmacy personnel, alongside an introduction to ethical decision-making principles.Community Pharmacy Practice I (PT-190) — 42 hours
This course introduces students to community pharmacy workflows, including maintaining patient profiles, processing prescriptions, and understanding third-party agreements. Regulatory guidelines specific to Manitoba are also explored.Community Pharmacy Dispensing Laboratory I (PT-200) — 84 hours
Designed to complement Community Pharmacy Practice I, this course provides hands-on experience using pharmacy software for prescription processing and filling. Simulations include patient and healthcare professional interactions.Institutional Pharmacy Practice (PT-210) — 42 hours
Students are introduced to pharmacy practices within institutional settings such as hospitals and long-term care facilities. Topics include drug distribution systems, inventory management, and the roles of pharmacy technicians in these environments.Institutional Pharmacy Dispensing Laboratory (PT-220) — 84 hours
This practical course complements Institutional Pharmacy Practice. Students participate in simulations of medication preparation and distribution, record keeping, and emergency preparedness, with an emphasis on final product verification.Health Care Training Seminar (PT-221) — 12 hours
This seminar provides foundational healthcare skills, including certification in emergency first aid, CPR, and workplace safety protocols. Students also receive training in the Personal Health Information Act.Intra- and Interprofessional Learning Experiences I (PT-105) — 21 hours
Through simulated healthcare environments, students learn with, from, and about other healthcare disciplines. Emphasis is placed on communication, collaboration, and the principles of patient-centered care.Career Preparation Seminar I (PT-227) — 9 hours
This seminar helps students prepare for job applications and interviews as they transition into the workforce. Students learn effective job-searching techniques, create professional resumes and cover letters, and practice interview skills in a supportive environment.Drug Names Tests (PT-412) — 12 hours
This series of assessments evaluates students' knowledge of generic and proprietary medication names, an essential skill for pharmacy technicians. Mastery of medication names is critical for accurate and efficient pharmacy practice.Practicum Preparation Seminar (PT-223) — 6 hours
This seminar prepares students for work practicum placements by covering practicum expectations, monitoring and evaluation processes, and troubleshooting common issues. Students learn how to maximize their practicum experience, escalate concerns appropriately, and complete evaluation forms effectively.Community Pharmacy Work Practicum I (PT-230) — 80 hours
This practicum offers students hands-on experience in a community pharmacy setting. Under the supervision of preceptors, students gain practical skills in patient interaction, prescription processing, and collaboration with healthcare professionals. This unpaid, work-integrated learning experience builds confidence and industry readiness.Pharmacy Law and Ethics II (PT-305) — 24 hours
Building on Pharmacy Law and Ethics I, this course applies legal and ethical principles to pharmacy practice through case studies and simulations. Students explore complex topics such as unusual drug distribution patterns and advanced ethical decision-making frameworks.Community Pharmacy Practice II (PT-300) — 42 hours
This course expands on the skills and knowledge introduced in Community Pharmacy Practice I. Topics include advanced inventory management, medical device education, and final product verification. Students also refine their intra- and interprofessional communication skills as they prepare for the broader responsibilities of pharmacy technicians.Community Pharmacy Dispensing Laboratory II (PT-320) — 84 hours
This course expands on the skills gained in Community Pharmacy Practice I and Community Pharmacy Dispensing Laboratory I. Students engage in simulations covering verbal orders, medical device demonstrations, and final product verification, ensuring readiness for the responsibilities of pharmacy technicians in Manitoba.Non-Sterile Extemporaneous Product Preparation (PT-330) — 42 hours
Students learn the principles of non-sterile product preparation, focusing on dosage forms, their active and inactive components, and the chemical and physical properties affecting stability. Canadian and Manitoban preparation standards and record-keeping practices are emphasized.Non-Sterile Extemporaneous Product Preparation Laboratory (PT-340) — 84 hours
This hands-on course complements Non-Sterile Extemporaneous Product Preparation, enabling students to prepare compounds such as creams, solutions, and capsules. Students apply USP General Chapter <795>, Good Manufacturing Practices, and pharmacy compounding standards.Sterile Extemporaneous Product Preparation (PT-350) — 42 hours
Students explore the fundamentals of sterile product preparation, including aseptic techniques, parenteral product preparation, and contamination prevention. Topics include equipment maintenance and best practices for sterility assurance.Sterile Extemporaneous Product Preparation Laboratory (PT-360) — 84 hours
Focusing on aseptic preparation of sterile products, this course builds practical skills in compliance with USP Chapters <797> and <800>, ensuring the safe handling of hazardous and non-hazardous preparations.Pharmacology for Pharmacy Technicians I (PT-370) — 84 hours
This course introduces the major classes of medications, their applications, and their relation to diseases and conditions. Students review medical terminology and anatomy to connect pharmacology with clinical care.Pharmacology for Pharmacy Technicians II (PT-380) — 84 hours
Building on Pharmacology I, this course examines additional medication classes and their uses, deepening students' understanding of drug therapy in the context of disease management.Medication Safety and Risk Management (PT-390) — 42 hours
Students study medication safety principles and incident prevention. Topics include medication errors, patient safety, and strategies to minimize risks within pharmacy practice.Career Preparation Seminar II (PT-228) — 15 hours
This seminar supports job search readiness through resume refinement, cover letter drafting, and advanced interview practice. Students gain insights into navigating the job market with confidence.Intra- and Interprofessional Learning Experiences II (PT-205) — 21 hours
Students collaborate with healthcare professionals in simulated settings, strengthening interprofessional communication and teamwork while applying patient-centered care principles.Pharmacy Calculations Zero Tolerance Tests (PT-226) — 6 hours
This series of tests ensures proficiency in accurate, error-free pharmacy calculations. Students demonstrate their readiness for practice through rigorous evaluation.Final Product Verification Zero Tolerance Tests (PT-413) — 6 hours
Students are assessed on their ability to perform reliable, error-free final product verification. These tests emphasize the importance of precision in pharmacy practice.National Qualifying Examination Preparation Seminar (PT-385) — 30 hours
Designed to prepare students for the national qualifying examination, this seminar includes self-assessment, study planning, exam-taking strategies, and mock written and practical exams.Community Pharmacy Work Practicum II (PT-400) — 200 hours
This practicum immerses students in community pharmacy settings, allowing them to perform tasks within the pharmacy technician scope. Emphasis is placed on medication incident analysis and documentation.Institutional Pharmacy Work Practicum (PT-410) — 210 hours
Students gain practical experience in institutional pharmacy settings, performing tasks aligned with the pharmacy technician scope of practice. Under preceptor supervision, students develop industry-relevant competencies.Keyboarding Seminar (PT-222) — 12 hours
This seminar focuses on developing accurate and efficient keyboarding skills. Students learn proper posture and positioning techniques while working to improve typing speed and accuracy for professional environments.