Pharmacy Technician
This two year course leads to a Pharmacy Technician Qualification. The Pharmacy Technician assists the pharmacist in the preparation, checking, storage and dispensing of drugs. The course is intended to equip Pharmacy Technicians with the necessary knowledge and skills to demonstrate professionalism and deliver person-centred care.
| Award Name | BTEC National Diploma at UK Level 3 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Pearson |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| BTEC National Diploma at UK Level 3 | Pearson |
Duration
2 years full-time.
Entry Requirements
Applications are invited from candidates who have completed a relevant foundation qualification, e.g. QQI Level 5 Pharmacy Assistant course or equivalent. Candidates with at least 2 years experience of working full time in a pharmacy dispensary are also eligible to apply. Prospective students must be working in a pharmacy setting for the duration of the course for a minimum of 20 hours a week. All applicants will be interviewed. Additional pre requisites including academic proficiency, a health declaration and vetting will also be considered as part of the admissions process.
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options
Pharmacy Technicians are employed in both the private sector in community and private hospital pharmacies and by the HSE in hospital pharmacies. Other employment opportunities include medical sales for pharmaceutical suppliers. This qualification is recognised in Ireland and the UK. Successful graduates have the opportunity to progress to study in the UK and Ireland.
With experience, eligible to apply for Pharmacy programmes in RCSI and UK.
Further information
Course commences: September 2026.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Further information of the webpage - https://www.dife.ie/application-procedure/
Aim
This two year course leads to a Pharmacy Technician Qualification. The Pharmacy Technician assists the pharmacist in the preparation, checking, storage and dispensing of drugs.
The course is intended to equip Pharmacy Technicians with the necessary knowledge and skills to demonstrate professionalism and deliver person-centred care.
Course Content:
Students will develop medical knowledge to recognise common illnesses and communication skills to liaise with pharmacists and counsel patients on healthcare issues, including the various healthcare schemes available in Ireland. Students will gain experience in dispensing procedures and practices and will be able to interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing. They will be able to maintain patient records and operate pharmacy computer systems. They will also be able to supply non-prescription medicines in accordance with legislation and guidelines. The course is modular with continuous assessment over the two years.
Award: Pearson-BTEC Diploma in Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Technicians
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie