New Co-op scholarships available for MHC’s Pharmacy Technician program

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on June 3, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Students entering Medicine Hat College’s new Pharmacy Technician diploma program in September will now have the opportunity to apply for one of two $15,000 scholarships funded by the Federated Co-operative Limited on behalf of the Co-operative Retailing System.

MHC announced the two full-ride scholarships totalling $30,000 last week that will pay for the entire two-year diploma program, which is the first of its kind in southern Alberta.

“Medicine Hat College is proud to continue our partnership with FCL in support of student success,” said Jennifer Kerslake, director of community engagement. “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.”

The program will teach students an updated version of NorQuest College’s nationally accredited curriculum. This curriculum aligns with the Canadian council for the Accreditation of Parmnacy’s standards.

Students are trained to compound, prepare and dispense prescriptions and pharmaceutical products under the direction of pharmacists. Students will also learn how to provide services that promote health and wellness and effectively distribute drugs.

Students enrolled in the new diploma program will also have the opportunity to participate in a practicum. South County Co-op will be collaborating with the college to welcome pharmacy tech students into its pharmacy space and provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in a real-world setting.

“South County Co-op is proud to support initiatives that align with our purpose statement of enriching lives and communities,” said Carmen Hudson, brand development and facilities. “Values we share deeply with both Medicine Hat College and the broader co-operative retailing system.”

According to a press release from MHC, students are on waitlists at other provincial colleges and the new pharmacy technicians program “is already seeing strong applications for its first cohort.”

Application information can be found by visiting the college’s homepage.

11
-10