Medicine Hat College's (MHC) new Pharmacy Technician diploma program received a significant injection of support with $30,000 in full-ride scholarship funding from Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) on behalf of the Co-operative Retailing System (CRS).
The two-year program, which was announced in early March, is already seeing strong applications for its first cohort in Fall 2025. Today's commitment from FCL means students entering the program in 2025 and 2026 will have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship worth $15,000 to cover expenses over the two-year diploma.
"Medicine Hat College is proud to continue our partnership with FCL in support of student success," said Jennifer Kerslake, Director of Community Engagement at MHC. "Their investment in education and workforce development will have a lasting impact, ensuring future pharmacy technicians have the financial support needed to launch their careers."
This initiative builds on MHC's strong ties to the Co-operative network, with valued support from South Country Co-op. Their continued contributions reflect a shared commitment to education, student success, and addressing the region's demand for skilled professionals. As part of their partnership with MHC and the Pharmacy Technician Program, South Country Co-op is proud to support the next generation of healthcare professionals by welcoming Pharmacy Tech students into their former pharmacy space. This collaboration with the Medicine Hat College provides students with valuable, hands-on learning opportunities in a real-world setting.
"South Country Co-op is proud to support initiatives that align with our Purpose Statement of Enriching Lives and Communities values we share deeply with both Medicine Hat College and the broader Co-operative Retailing System. It's been a privilege to work alongside dedicated partners like Medicine Hat College and FCL to help bring this important program to life. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on students and the communities they go on to serve across Western Canada" shared Carmen Hudson, Vice President Brand Development & Facilities at South Country Co-op.
Medicine Hat College will become the only postsecondary institution in southern Alberta to offer pharmacy technician training in response to increasing demand for pharmacy technicians in the region and across Alberta. With waitlists at other provincial colleges, MHC's push to offer this program already has strong local support from private and public health stakeholders.
Building on the success of an existing pharmacy technician program, MHC will deliver an updated version of NorQuest College's nationally accredited curriculum that aligns with the Canadian Council for the Accreditation of Pharmacy Program's 2025 standards. Practicums and work integrated learning opportunities will be regionally focused, supporting the needs of businesses and health care providers in southern Alberta.
Pharmacy Technician is a licensed, regulated career with an expanding scope of practice. Techs are trained to compound, prepare, and dispense prescriptions and pharmaceutical products under the direction of pharmacists and help handle the flow of the pharmacy environment. They also provide services that promote health and wellness, as well as safe and effective drug distribution. Pharmacy technicians work in a variety of community pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities and can also find employment with health insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, and pharmacy suppliers.
For more information about the program, or to apply, please visit the Pharmacy Technician webpage.
