Course Code: CI061PH
Course Level: 5
Award Title: FETAC/QQI Level 5 Certificate in Laboratory Techniques
QQI Code: 5M3807
Duration: 1 Year
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate or Leaving Certificate Applied or LCVP or FETAC/QQI Level 4 Award. Equal consideration will be given to mature applicants (those aged over 23) who do not meet these entry requirements.
Course Description
Pharmacies are an important and integral part of the health care system in Ireland. Irish pharmacies and their staff play a vital role as primary health care providers. There are 1700 pharmacies in Ireland and there is a growing need for pharmacy assistants to help the pharmacist with an increased workload. Pharmacies no longer just dispense medicine. They often offer advice on health issues, drug interactions, vaccinations and some basic health 'check-ups'. Pharmacies also sell products such as baby care accessories, cosmetics, perfumes and health supplements. Sales of these products are becoming an increasingly important part of a pharmacy’s income and graduates of this course will be well placed to recommend and sell such products, having studied modules in customer service and beauty therapy as part of this course. As a pharmacy assistant, you will work as part of a team of health professionals in order to help customers achieve the best possible health outcomes. Students of this course may also be offered the opportunity to complete the Medicine Counter Assistant award from the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU).
Course Content
Biology
Chemistry
Communications
Customer Service
Laboratory Skills
Word Processing
Mathematics
Microbiology
Retail Selling
Work Experience
Skin Care, Eye Treatments and Make Up
Career Opportunities
Students who complete this course will graduate with a good mix of science, retail and customer service knowledge and skills. Graduates may obtain employment in local pharmacies, assisting the pharmacist to provide a complete care service to the community including health care advice, beauty and cosmetic tips, good customer service, retail display and sales skills.
Progression Opportunities
Graduates are eligible to apply through the CAO and/or the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to year one of a range of higher certificate and degree programmes at Institutes of Technology and Universities (please check with the particular institution regarding local eligibility requirements).
