Understanding how long a pharmacy assistant course is in Canada is critical for planning your educational and career path. Whether you’re a student exploring healthcare roles, a professional considering a career switch, or a parent helping your child make informed decisions, knowing the timeline helps align expectations with goals.
The healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors are growing across the country, increasing demand for skilled pharmacy assistants. With strong job prospects, this role presents a stable and fulfilling career opportunity.
This article is ideal for students, working adults, career advisors, and parents looking to gain insight into training and job requirements in the pharmacy assistant field.
Why Study a Healthcare Course in Canada?
Canada maintains high academic standards and is known for its modern, technology-driven training environments. Students enrolling in a healthcare course in Canada benefit from rigorous curricula, hands-on experience, and exposure to cutting-edge healthcare practices.
The demand for healthcare professionals is growing steadily due to Canada’s aging population and the increasing focus on health and wellness. From rural areas to urban centers, qualified healthcare workers are in high demand, making it an excellent time to pursue a healthcare course in Canada.
Canada also provides attractive post-graduation pathways. Students completing a healthcare course in Canada can apply for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP), which often lead to permanent residency opportunities.
Moreover, the country’s multicultural society and inclusive academic environment make it a welcoming destination for international students. Institutions provide support services to help students integrate and succeed.
Overview of Medical Healthcare Courses and Diplomas in Canada
Diagnostic and Clinical Programs
These programs train students to support physicians in diagnosis and treatment. Popular options include
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
The diagnostic medical sonography program is a practical healthcare course in Canada that trains students in ultrasound imaging of internal organs. This course opens career paths in hospitals, clinics, and private diagnostic facilities across the country.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
- Program Length: 100 weeks of instructor-led full-time training and clinical practice
- Practicum Duration: 32 weeks, Local Clinic and hospital
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $18,000 – $22,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography Program
The diagnostic cardiac sonography program is a specialized healthcare course in Canada that trains students in heart imaging techniques. It prepares graduates for careers in cardiology departments of hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography Program
- Program Length: 78 weeks of instructor-led full-time training and clinical practice
- Practicum Duration: 22 weeks, Local Clinic and hospital
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $18,000 – $22,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Medical Laboratory Technician Program:
The medical laboratory technician program is a foundational healthcare course in Canada that trains students to collect, handle, and analyze clinical samples. This course is ideal for those looking to work in medical labs, hospitals, and diagnostic centers.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Medical Laboratory Technician Program
- Program Length: 49 weeks of instructor-led full-time training with Co-op
- Practicum Duration: 200 hours, Local Clinic and hospital co-op
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,000 – $18,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
Physiotherapist Assistant and Occupational Therapist Assistant:
The physiotherapist assistant and occupational therapist assistant program is a practical healthcare course in Canada that equips students to support licensed therapists in rehab settings. Graduates work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Physiotherapist Assistant Program, Occupational Therapist Assistant
- Program Length: 48 weeks (1105 hours) instructor-led full-time training with Co-op
- Practicum Duration: 320 hours in physiotherapy clinics and rehabilitation centers
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $16,000 – $20,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Each of these is a valuable healthcare course in Canada, offering strong job prospects and professional development.
Patient and Personal Care Programs
These courses emphasize direct patient interaction and care:
Personal Support Worker Program (PSW):
The personal support worker program (PSW) is a vital healthcare course in Canada that trains students to support elderly and disabled individuals with daily living activities in homes and long-term care settings.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Personal Support Worker Program (PSW)
- Program Length: 28 weeks (700 hours), instructor-led full-time training with co-op
- Practicum Duration: 310 hours, co-op placement in both a long-term care facility and a community facility
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $12,000 – $16,000
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
Massage Therapy Diploma Program (RMT):
The massage therapy diploma program is a specialized healthcare course in Canada designed to teach therapeutic massage techniques that aid in rehabilitation. Graduates are equipped to work in clinics, wellness centers, and physiotherapy practices.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Massage Therapy Diploma Program (RMT)
- Program Length: Full Time, 88 weeks of instructor-led full-time training
- Clinic Practice: 315 hours at a college Massage clinic
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,000 – $18,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
Acupuncture:
The acupuncture program is a holistic healthcare course in Canada designed to train students in traditional Eastern therapies. It’s in high demand across wellness centers, clinics, and integrative health practices.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Acupuncture
- Program Length: 89 weeks (2200 hours) instructor-led full-time training
- Clinic Practice: 600 hours at a college Acupuncture clinic
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $15,000 – $20,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Medical Esthetics Diploma:
The medical esthetician diploma is a specialized healthcare course in Canada that blends cosmetic procedures with clinical skincare knowledge. It prepares students for careers in dermatology clinics, medical spas, and wellness centers.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Medical Esthetics Diploma
- Program Length: 66 weeks (1350 hours) instructor-led full-time training
- Clinic Practice: On College Medical and Esthetics clinic
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $13,000 – $17,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
Choosing a healthcare course in Canada from this category is ideal for those passionate about patient care and holistic health.
Pharmacy and Healthcare Office Programs
For those interested in administrative or pharmaceutical roles:
Pharmacy Assistant:
The pharmacy assistant program is a practical healthcare course in Canada that prepares students to assist pharmacists with medication dispensing, inventory control, and patient communication in pharmacies and healthcare settings.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Pharmacy Assistant Program
- Program Length: 34 weeks (900 hours) instructor-led full-time training with Co-op
- Practicum Duration: 6 weeks, for a total of 240 hours
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $13,000 – $16,000
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
Medical Office Administration Diploma Program:
The medical office administration diploma program is a foundational healthcare course in Canada focused on training students in administrative tasks like medical billing, scheduling, and patient records management in healthcare environments.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Medical Office Administration Diploma Program
- Program Length: 40 weeks (970 hours) instructor-led full-time training with Co-op
- Practicum Duration: 6 weeks, for a total of 240 hours
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $12,000 – $15,000
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
These are great entry points into the healthcare system and are in demand across clinics and hospitals.
Connect with Us for Details on the Medical Healthcare Course in Canada
Food, Cosmetic Science & Pharmaceutical Courses in Canada
A unique subset of healthcare education focuses on food science and pharmaceutical production. Students can explore options such as:
Food, Nutrition and Health Diploma:
The Food, Nutrition, and Health Diploma program is a science-based healthcare course in Canada focused on dietary planning, public health, and nutrition science, preparing students for work in the healthcare, wellness, and food industry sectors.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Food, Nutrition and Health Diploma
- Program Length: 48 weeks (1001 hours) instructor-led full-time training
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $15,000 – $20,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Food Safety & Quality:
The Food Safety & Quality program is a specialized healthcare course in Canada that focuses on food regulations and quality control. It prepares students for roles in food inspection, safety compliance, and regulatory affairs in the food industry.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Food Safety & Quality
- Program Length: 40 weeks (810 hours) instructor-led full-time training
- Practicum Duration: Hands-on practice in a college laboratory
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,000 – $18,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance & Quality Control:
The pharmaceutical quality assurance & quality control program is a career-focused healthcare course in Canada that emphasizes maintaining drug safety during manufacturing. Graduates are trained for roles in pharmaceutical labs, QA departments, and regulatory settings.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance & Quality Control
- Program Length: 46 weeks (920 hours), instructor-led full-time training
- Practicum: Hands-on practice in a college laboratory
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,000 – $18,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance & Regulatory Affairs:
The pharmaceutical quality assurance & regulatory affairs program is a compliance-focused healthcare course in Canada that prepares students to manage drug regulations and industry standards in pharmaceutical companies and health agencies.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance & Regulatory Affairs
- Program Length: 28 weeks (560 hours), instructor-led full-time training
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,000 – $18,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technology:
The pharmaceutical manufacturing technology program is a technical healthcare course in Canada focused on drug production techniques, preparing students for careers in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and quality control labs.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technology
- Program Length: 43 weeks (950 hours), instructor-led, theoretical and practical full-time training
- Practicum: Hands-on practice in Manufacturing Laboratory
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,000 – $18,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
Pharmaceutical Quality Control Technician Program:
The pharmaceutical quality control program is a specialized healthcare course in Canada focused on testing and validating product quality before market release. It prepares students for roles in pharmaceutical labs, QA departments, and manufacturing compliance.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Pharmaceutical Quality Control Technician Program
- Program Length: 26 weeks (520 hours) instructor-led full-time training
- Practicum: Hands-on practice in a college laboratory
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $14,000 – $18,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.5 (No band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL Overall: 88 (with no section below 20)
- PTE Overall: 58
These programs are among the most technical and specialized healthcare courses in Canada, combining science with regulation.
Community & Human Services Diploma Programs
Community-oriented programs serve vulnerable populations and support social well-being:
Community Service Worker:
The community service worker program is a community-focused healthcare course in Canada that trains students to support vulnerable populations through roles in shelters, support centers, and outreach organizations.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Community Service Worker
- Program Length: 36 weeks (850 hours) instructor-led full-time training with Co-op
- Practicum Duration: 8 weeks, for a total of 280 hours
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $12,000 – $16,000
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
Early Childcare Assistant:
The early childcare assistant program is a career-oriented healthcare course in Canada that prepares students to work with children in early education and care settings, such as daycare centers and preschools.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Early Childcare Assistant
- Program Length: 36 weeks (845 hours), instructor-led full-time training With Co-op
- Practicum Duration: 8 weeks, for a total of 320 hours
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $12,000 – $15,000
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
Advanced Esthetics Diploma:
The advanced esthetics diploma program is a specialized healthcare course in Canada that merges advanced skincare techniques with client service skills for careers in medical spas, dermatology clinics, and cosmetic practices.
Program Details:
- Course Name: Advanced Esthetics Diploma
- Program Length: 42 weeks (1020 hours) instructor-led full-time training
- Clinic Practice: On the college’s Medical and Esthetics clinic
- Application Fees: CAD $100
- Tuition Fees: Approximately CAD $13,000 – $17,000 per year
- IELTS Overall: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
- TOEFL Overall: 80 (with no section below 18)
- PTE Overall: 54
For those drawn to social impact, these represent a rewarding type of healthcare course in Canada.
Choosing the Right Healthcare Course in Canada
It’s important to align your choice of program with your long-term career goals. Are you interested in working in clinical settings, administrative offices, research labs, or wellness centers? A healthcare course in Canada can help you explore all these avenues.
Program duration and certification requirements vary, so consider the length and outcome of the course. Some programs require licensing exams or further bridging education.
Hands-on training is a cornerstone of Canadian healthcare education. Look for programs offering internships, practicums, or co-op placements to gain real-world experience.
Lastly, factor in the cost of tuition, housing, and living expenses. These can vary significantly across provinces. A healthcare course in Canada in a smaller city may offer lower costs than in major urban centers.
Admissions Process and Requirements
Admission to a healthcare course in Canada typically requires:
- A high school diploma with a strong background in science and math
- English language proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Additional documents like police checks, immunization records, and medical forms for clinical placements
Many institutions offer scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid to both domestic and international students. Always check application deadlines, which can differ by program and college.
International Student Considerations
International students must apply for a study permit and ensure their program qualifies for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). A healthcare course in Canada that meets PGWP criteria can provide a pathway to permanent residency.
Life in Canada offers safety, cultural diversity, and high-quality healthcare. International students can access campus support services, health coverage, and language assistance.
Preparing for cultural adjustment, weather differences, and academic expectations will help ensure a smooth transition into your healthcare course in Canada.
Job Outlook and Career Pathways
Graduates of a healthcare course in Canada can pursue roles like
- Personal Support Worker (PSW)
- Medical Laboratory Technician
- Pharmacy Assistant
- Sonographer
- Community Support Worker
Salaries vary by profession and region, but most healthcare roles offer strong growth potential. Licensing bodies may require international professionals to take bridging programs.
The PGWP allows students to gain Canadian work experience post-graduation. This work experience is often critical when applying for permanent residency under immigration streams like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Why Choose Pharma – Medical Science College of Canada
Pharma-Medical Science College of Canada is a trusted name in Ontario’s private career college landscape. Specializing in healthcare education, we offer a wide range of diploma programs tailored to today’s job market.
Our graduates are recognized across North America’s healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. We provide financial aid options such as OSAP, Second Career, and more.
With experienced instructors and high job placement rates, our students are well-prepared for real-world careers. As a top destination for international applicants, we also support skilled newcomers integrating into the Canadian workforce.
If you’re considering a healthcare course in Canada, Pharma-Medical Science College should be on your list.
Conclusion
Canada offers a wide array of healthcare education opportunities for domestic and international students alike. Whether you’re interested in diagnostics, patient care, pharmaceuticals, or community services, there’s a healthcare course in Canada that fits your career aspirations.
Start early by researching programs, comparing costs, and reviewing admission requirements. A successful and fulfilling career in healthcare starts with careful planning and informed choices.
Ready to take the next step? Contact our program advisors today or start your application for a healthcare course in Canada that could change your life.