BSA3 Level 5 Pharmacy Assistant

Course details

Introduction

This course is designed to equip learners with relevant knowledge and experience to work as a pharmacy assistant. Work in this industry varies from dispensing over the counter medications, helping clients choose medical aids and appliances to demonstrating and selling cosmetics, perfumes etc. As well as a QQI qualification, learners are offered an additional module from the Irish Pharmacy Union.

Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate with 5 passes or Leaving Certificate Applied or equivalent. For mature students applications may be considered based on a proven interest in retail pharmacy work. Entry may be subject to interview & depends on satisfactory Garda Vetting.

Course Content

• Customer Service
• Medical Terminology
• Nutrition
• Marketing Practice/Retail Selling
• Word Processing
• Safety & Health at Work
• Reception & Frontline Office Skills
• Communications
• Work Experience

OPTIONS

• Mathematics
• Biology

ADDITIONAL

• Medicines Counter Assistant (MCA) Irish Pharmacy Union

Certification

• 5M4468 QQI Level 5 Community Health Services
• Medicines Counter Assistant (MCA) Irish Pharmacy Union

Course Structure

This course will focus on a range of business and health related subjects relevant to employment as a pharmacy assistant. Work Experience is within a retail pharmacy. The IPU Medicines Counter Assistant module is designed to provide the skills and knowledge to deal effectively with customers in the pharmacy. Emphasis is placed on questioning skills, product knowledge and appropriate referral.

Career Options | Progression

Holders of a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Community Health Services may progress to further study at Institutes of Technology/Universities. With knowledge of over the counter medicines you may also enter employment in a retail pharmacy setting or as a heath care sales representative.

Evaluation

You will be assessed on the basis of:

• Examinations
• Project Work or Assignments
• Skills Tests