Program Overview

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Introduction to the BSc (Hons) Clinical Practice for Pharmacy Technicians Course

The BSc (Hons) Clinical Practice for Pharmacy Technicians course is designed to bridge the knowledge gap identified by practising pharmacy technicians, increasing their practice scope and contribution to the provision of patient-centred pharmaceutical care and clinical pharmacy. This degree qualification will provide advanced knowledge across the four pillars of practice of the new post-registration pharmacy workforce development framework.

Course Overview

The course will have a comprehensive, professionally relevant, and clinical-oriented curriculum that will acknowledge the diverse clinical skill set required to be a successful and competent clinical pharmacy technician. Due to the expanded role of pharmacists that includes independent prescribing, some clinical aspects can be performed by another pharmacy professional with the appropriate clinical training and knowledge; pharmacy technicians are best suited to be upskilled to undertake clinical roles.

Mode of Study and Attendance

• Mode of Study: Online Learning
• Mode of Attendance: Full Time
• Start Date: September
• Course Length: 2-3 years dependant on stage of entry

Course Structure

The course can be started in year 2 or year 3 following completion of other college courses.

Year 2

The emphasis is on foundational pharmaceutical sciences relevant to clinical practice. This includes an understanding of pharmaceuticals that covers the drug journey from discovery to medicine design and use. The foundation modules will focus on the clinical practice pillar to collectively enhance students' understanding of drug formulation, human anatomy and physiology, pharmacological and toxicology principles, and clinical therapeutics, preparing one to effectively support pharmacists in patient care and medication management.

Year 3

The development of clinical pharmacology and therapeutics skills for patient safety, decision-making, and critical thinking as well as evidence-based therapeutics and patient-centred clinical outcomes will be explored. Students will learn to interpret investigational data for chronic conditions, enhance their clinical information gathering skills, and understand public health roles, with a focus on the three pillars of healthcare professional practice, i.e., clinical practice, education, and research to improve healthcare.

Year 4

An integration of clinical pharmacology and therapeutics to manage patients with complex needs through evidence-based treatment strategies will be taught. The development of leadership skills and the ability to manage advanced pharmacy services by embedding reflective practice will be explored. All four pillars of healthcare practice will be incorporated. Students will also learn how to conduct continuous quality improvement in pharmaceutical care and services.

Learning Methods

Teaching and learning activities include an appropriate mix of small and large group teaching, as well as problem-based approaches. Your individual clinical pharmacy practical skills will be developed as teaching design fosters your interpersonal and other professional clinical skills.

Assessment

Typically, students are assessed each year:

• Year 2: 2 written exams, 3 written assignments, including essays and reports
• Year 3: 3 written exams, 1 written assignment, including essays and reports
• Year 4: 2 written exams, 1 written assignment, including essays and reports, 1 e-portfolio, 1 oral assessment

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework, and practical exams.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia, and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.

Online Learning & Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, Moodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:

• Academic writing
• Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
• Maths and statistics
• Information technology support

Library Support

The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops, and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.

Job Prospects

With the BSc qualification, Pharmacy technicians will be educated to the SCQF Level 9 (~Skills for Health level 5) and have the potential to competently undertake expanded clinical roles. With the BSc (Hons) qualification, Pharmacy technicians will be educated to the SCQF Level 10 (~Skills for Health level 6) and have the potential to progress to specialist and leadership roles.

Entry Requirements

• Year 2 Entry: A qualification at SCQF level 7 such as the Diploma Pharmacy Services SCQF level 7 (GR2H 47) or equivalent. Work experience is considered on a case-by-case basis by an Academic Team Member.
• Year 3 Entry: A qualification at SCQF level 8 such as the Scottish Vocational Qualification, SVQ, in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 8 (GR2C 24) or equivalent. Work experience is considered on a case-by-case basis by an Academic Team Member.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 6.0, or an equivalent.

Fees and Funding

Scottish Students

• Full Time: Online, over 3 years, ｣1820 per year

Rest of UK Students

• Full Time: Online, over 3 years, ｣9535 per year

International Students

• Full Time: Online, over 3 years, ｣18550 per year

Additional Costs

Some other costs are not included in the course fees:

• The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
• Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
• Accommodation and Living Costs
• Printing

Student Funding

If you are a Scottish resident, you may be eligible for funding and should apply to SAAS for funding. Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website for their country.