Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Program in Calgary
Train as a pharmacy assistant at ABM College’s Calgary campus. This 53-week diploma combines in-person or hybrid classes with simulated pharmacy labs, hands-on Kroll software training and an 8-week practicum in a retail or hospital pharmacy setting. Morning, evening and weekend schedules are available, with the next start dates on November 2 and December 21, 2026.
Prefer to study fully online from anywhere in Canada? See our pharmacy assistant course online.
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Pharmacy Assistant
Diploma Summary
ABM College's Pharmacy Assistant Course in Calgary provides students with the specialized training needed to thrive in Calgary’s expanding healthcare sector. This program combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training in simulated pharmacy labs and real-world practicum placements. Graduates are well-prepared to step into rewarding roles in both community and institutional pharmacy environments.
Students gain an in-depth understanding of the technical, clerical, and clinical aspects of the pharmacy profession. Through hands-on instruction in simulated pharmacy labs and an 8-week practicum, students gain real-world experience while mastering the essential skills needed to succeed in Calgary’s expanding healthcare sector. Graduates of this pharmacy assistant program in Alberta are well prepared to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
Prefer to study from anywhere in Canada? See our pharmacy assistant course online.
Pharmacy Assistant
Course Highlights
Develop a deep understanding of the role of Pharmacy Assistants in Calgary’s community and hospital pharmacies.
Master essential skills, including accurate dosage calculations, inventory management, and clerical responsibilities.
Learn about the effects of medications on anatomy and physiology, enhancing your ability to assist pharmacists and patients effectively.
Explore pharmacy compounding techniques and sterile preparation procedures with a focus on patient safety and regulatory compliance.
Gain hands-on experience using industry-standard tools, including KROLL pharmacy software and Microsoft Office, to enhance your technical proficiency.
Pharmacy Software & Tools You'll Learn
Gain hands-on experience with the pharmacy management tools and software used daily in retail pharmacies, hospital dispensaries, and compounding facilities across Canada.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| KROLL | Prescription processing, patient records, dispensing workflows |
| Microsoft Excel | Inventory tracking, pharmaceutical calculations, reporting |
| Microsoft Word | Documentation, patient forms, internal communications |
| Microsoft Outlook | Professional email and scheduling |
Pharmacy Assistant Jobs in Calgary
Job Bank rates the employment outlook for pharmacy assistants in the Calgary region as moderate for 2025–2027. Employment growth is expected to create a moderate number of new positions, and Alberta’s growing and aging population is expected to add to demand. Most pharmacy assistants in the Calgary region work in retail pharmacies, with others in clinics and hospitals.
| Role | Work Setting | Key Duties |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy Assistant — Retail / Community | Shoppers Drug Mart, Safeway, Walmart, London Drugs, independent pharmacies | Prepare, label, and dispense prescriptions; manage and replenish inventory |
| Hospital Pharmacy Assistant | General and specialty hospitals, health authorities (e.g. Alberta Health Services) | Medication prep, IV support, unit dose dispensing |
| Long-Term Care Pharmacy Assistant | Seniors' care facilities, assisted living, continuing care centres | Blister packs, medication carts, nursing coordination |
| Compounding Pharmacy Assistant | Compounding-only pharmacies, specialty clinics | Custom formulations, sterile/non-sterile protocols, QC documentation |
| Pharmacy Inventory Coordinator | Large retail chains, pharmaceutical distributors, mail-order pharmacies | Stock management, order processing, automated dispensing |
| Dispensary Assistant | Medical clinics with in-house dispensaries, occupational health sites | Labelling, patient intake, prescription verification support |
2024–25 Graduate Outcomes
Our Alberta-licensed Pharmacy Assistant Diploma reported a 70.83% job placement rate for 2024–25 graduates.*
Career Services support with resumes, interviews and your job search, during your program and after graduation.
*Job placement rate as reported to Alberta Advanced Education (Institution Annual Report, April 2024 – March 2025, “Job Placement Rate for Advertising Purposes”). Rates reflect one reporting year and may vary between graduating groups. Past results do not guarantee employment.
How Much Do Pharmacy Assistants Make in Alberta?
Pharmacy assistants in the Calgary region earn a median wage of $22.20/hour, with wages ranging from about $17.71 to $26.34/hour. Across Alberta, the median is $20.00/hour (range $15.05–$25.60/hour). Pay varies with the pharmacy setting and experience.
| Area | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary Region | $17.71 | $22.20 | $26.34 |
| Alberta | $15.05 | $20.00 | $25.60 |
Source: Government of Canada Job Bank – Pharmacy Assistant (NOC 33103) wages, updated November 19, 2025
Our Calgary Campus - Franklin
Admissions Requirements
Financial Aid
Our advisors help you find the funding option that fits — before your program begins.
Loans and grants from the Governments of Canada, Alberta, Ontario, and Manitoba for qualifying students.
Low-interest loans up to $15,000 for immigrants and refugees — tuition, books, exam fees, and a living allowance. Free career coaching included.
Pharmacy Assistant Practicum & Employer Network in Alberta
ABM College’s Calgary pharmacy assistant students complete an 8-week practicum in a community or institutional pharmacy setting. Our practicum and employer network includes national chains and independent pharmacies across Calgary, including in northeast communities such as Whitehorn and Marlborough.
Pharmacies in our Calgary network include:
- National and regional chains: Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, Costco Wholesale Pharmacy, Pharmasave
- Independent and community pharmacies: Cornerstone Pharmacy, Franklin IDA Pharmacy, McKnight Pharmacy, Medistar Pharmacy, MyHealthcare Pharmacy, Sandstone Pharmacies, Taradale Pharmacy & Travel Clinic, Vista Heights Pharmacy
One recent graduate completed 240 practicum hours at Shoppers Drug Mart in Edmonton’s Magrath Heights neighbourhood.
Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Information Kit
Pharmacy Assistant Information Kit
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Pharmacy Assistant Course Calgary: Detailed Curriculum
Student Success Stories: Our Pharmacy Assistant Course Graduates in Calgary
"I recently graduated from the Pharmacy Assistant program at ABM College, and I couldn't be more satisfied with my experience. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering essential topics like pharmacology, medication management, and customer service skills. The instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, providing real-world insights that prepared me well for the job market. The hands-on training component was..."
"I recently graduated from the Pharmacy Assistant program at ABM College, and I couldn't be more satisfied with my experience. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering essential topics like pharmacology, medication management, and customer service skills. The instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, providing real-world insights that prepared me well for the job market. The hands-on training component was particularly beneficial. I had opportunities to work in simulated pharmacy settings, which helped build my confidence in handling prescriptions and interacting with patients. The college also offered excellent career services, including resume workshops and job placement assistance. Overall, ABM College provided a nurturing and professional environment that fostered both academic and personal growth. I feel well-equipped to start my career as a Pharmacy Assistant and highly recommend this program to anyone interested in the field."
Judith JewellsGraduate of Pharmacy Assistant Program"I recently completed the Pharmacy Assistant course at ABM College Calgary Campus, and it was a great experience. The curriculum was comprehensive and well-structured, covering all the essential aspects of pharmacy technology. I would definitely recommend ABM College Calgary Campus to anyone looking to pursue a career as a Pharmacy Assistant. The education and support..."
"I recently completed the Pharmacy Assistant course at ABM College Calgary Campus, and it was a great experience. The curriculum was comprehensive and well-structured, covering all the essential aspects of pharmacy technology. I would definitely recommend ABM College Calgary Campus to anyone looking to pursue a career as a Pharmacy Assistant. The education and support provided are top-notch, making it an excellent choice for anyone in this field."
Kaycee ManuelGraduate of Pharmacy Assistant Program"Proud to be among the students who studied at ABM College My thanks to my teachers and the coordination team of ABM College. My deep thanks and gratitude to Shoppers Drug Mart-Magrath Heights in Edmonton for my 240 hours of practicum. Thank you."
Floribert BizimunguGraduate of Pharmacy Assistant Program
