All careers

Pharmacy Courses in Coopers Plains

Physiotherapy
Podiatry

Pharmacy courses in Coopers Plains

Career Pathfinder

Skills shortages + AI Exposure

Discover in-demand careers and understand how each role may be impacted by AI and automation.

A tool for students to:
  • See in-demand occupations across Australia
  • Check AI Exposure ratings
  • Compare training duration and average income

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?

Author Image Cassandra Charlesworth

Further reading

Career Pathways for Graduates After Studying a Diploma of Nursing and a Bachelor of Nursing

4th October 2024

Most popular health courses

29th June 2022

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

More about Pharmacy courses

If you're considering a career in the pharmacy field, Coopers Plains offers an excellent range of Pharmacy courses that cater to various interests and career paths. With 23 courses available, students can find suitable options for career advancement, whether you're aiming for roles as a pharmacy assistant, pharmacist, or laboratory technician. The local training providers, including esteemed institutions like the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Griffith University, bring quality education right to your doorstep in Coopers Plains.

Studying pharmacy in Coopers Plains means you can benefit from face-to-face learning with a range of campus-based providers. Both the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and BSI Learning offer specific courses that can help you specialise in areas such as oncology or alternative health. Being part of a local community with access to renowned trainers can enhance your learning experience, making it an ideal location for your studies.

Beyond pharmacy-specific roles, the skills acquired can be beneficial in related fields. Students interested in psychology, medicine, or pathology can find courses that complement their pharmacy training. The local providers, such as Bond University and UniSC, offer diverse programs that could shape your multifaceted career in health.

In Coopers Plains, the course offerings in pharmacy don't just prepare you for important roles but also focus on practical skills that can elevate your career. Many local training institutions, such as MSQ who provide the Diploma of Clinical Aromatherapy, emphasise hands-on training. This approach ensures that upon graduation, you have the experience and confidence needed to enter the workforce effectively.

As you explore the possibilities available in Pharmacy courses in Coopers Plains, remember to consider the variety of specialisations such as cosmetic surgery or drug and alcohol testing. Whether you aim for a specific role or wish to broaden your horizons in the health sector, the array of training providers in your area like QUT will help guide your educational journey with the support you need to succeed.