Robert Gordon University (RGU) is to launch a new BSc (Hons) Clinical Practice for Pharmacy Technicians, the first of its kind in the UK.
Led by the School of Pharmacy, Applied Sciences and Public Health the course is designed to bridge the knowledge gap identified by UK practising pharmacy technicians, to enhance their scope of practice and contribution to patient-centred pharmaceutical care and clinical pharmacy.
Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the UK healthcare system, working under the supervision of pharmacists to ensure the safe running of pharmacy operations and to help patients get the most from their medicines. With the expanded role of pharmacists, now including independent prescribing, there is a growing need for pharmacy technicians to undertake more clinical responsibilities.
This new top-up degree, which launches in September this year, will equip pharmacy technicians with the necessary clinical training and knowledge to confidently and competently take on these expanded clinical roles. This pharmacy related degree qualification will also align pharmacy technicians with the rest of the healthcare family who typically enter to practice with a degree qualification.
Professor Susannah Walsh, Dean of the School of Pharmacy, Applied Sciences and Public Health, said: "At RGU, we are committed to providing innovative and relevant educational opportunities that meet the needs of the evolving healthcare sector and expanding scope. This BSc (Hons) Clinical Practice for Pharmacy Technicians is a testament to our ongoing dedication to advancing healthcare education and supporting the professional growth of our students.”
Dr Graeme Kay, Associate Dean for Economic, Social and Cultural Development (ESCD) with the School of Pharmacy, Applied Sciences and Public Health, said: “RGU will be the first higher education institution in the UK to offer a pharmacy related degree qualification to pharmacy technicians, a significant milestone in the education of pharmacy technicians."
Dr. Betty Dube, the Course Development Lead, added: “We are excited to launch this new course, the first degree of its kind in the UK, that will address the ever-evolving needs of the pharmacy profession. Our goal is to empower pharmacy technicians with the clinical knowledge and skills they need to excel in their careers and contribute to the delivery of high-quality pharmaceutical care.”
Key features of the Course include:
- A Comprehensive Curriculum: The course will cover a wide range of topics essential for advanced clinical practice, including patient-centred pharmaceutical care, clinical therapeutics and health promotion.
- An Innovative Learning Environment: The course will be delivered online via the RGU ‘s virtual learning environment, Moodle. Moodle is a platform that hosts learning resources and activities, allowing students to access materials and participate in learning activities from any internet-enabled device, such as a laptop or mobile device.
- Flexible Learning: Designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals, the course offers fully online learning to balance work, life and study. Moodle allows students to study at their own pace and schedule, fitting their studies around work and personal commitments.
- Expert Staff: Students will be taught by experienced academics from RGU’s School of Pharmacy, Applied Sciences and Public Health, ensuring a high-quality education. This includes several GPhC registered pharmacists.
Prospective students are encouraged to register their interest and apply early to secure their place by visiting the course website and application portal: http://www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline
For more details, you can visit the RGU website or contact the course team at NewPharmacyTechCourse@rgu.ac.uk
