August 21, 2025

If you’re considering a career in healthcare but don’t want to spend years in university, becoming a pharmacy assistant might be the right fit. It’s a role that combines customer service, technical skills, and healthcare knowledge while offering the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. One of the most common questions people ask is: Do you need a degree to be a pharmacy assistant? 

The short answer is no. You don’t need a university degree to become a pharmacy assistant in Canada. However, having the right qualifications, training, and skills can make you far more competitive when applying for jobs. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what’s required and how a program like the Pharmacy Assistant Diploma at CDI College can help you start this rewarding career. 

What Does a Pharmacy Assistant Do? 

Pharmacy assistants are the backbone of pharmacies. They work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist and support day-to-day operations. Depending on the workplace, your responsibilities might include: 

• Preparing, packaging, and labelling prescriptions 
• Counting tablets and measuring liquid doses 
• Entering prescription information into pharmacy software like KROLL 
• Handling billing, insurance claims, and payment processing 
• Managing stock, receiving orders, and tracking expiration dates 
• Greeting customers, answering questions, and providing support 
• Assisting in compounding and sterilizing equipment 
• Helping maintain a clean, organized, and safe pharmacy environment 
   

Pharmacy assistant's duties and responsibilities need a mix of technical ability, attention to detail, and strong people skills. Your work helps ensure patients get the right medication on time, making this role a vital part of the healthcare system. 

Does a Pharmacy Assistant Need a Degree? 

The big question: does a pharmacy assistant need a degree? The answer is no. Unlike pharmacists, who require a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, pharmacy assistants don’t need a university education.  Most employers look for candidates who have at least a high school diploma. Courses in math, biology, and chemistry at the secondary level can give you a helpful foundation. While some pharmacies provide on-the-job training, the reality is that more employers prefer applicants who have completed a Pharmacy Assistant Diploma program.  So, while you don’t need a degree, having a diploma makes you more employable and gives you the confidence to handle the demands of the role. 
 

Bonus Read: Is Pharmacy Assistant in Demand in Canada? 

Do You Need Qualifications to Be a Pharmacy Assistant? 

Another common question is: do you need qualifications to be a pharmacy assistant? Strictly speaking, no formal qualifications are required to enter the field. Some smaller or independent pharmacies may hire assistants without prior training and teach them the basics on the job. But here’s the reality: the job market is competitive. Employers in hospitals, large retail chains, and community pharmacies are looking for candidates who already know the essentials. A diploma tells them you understand pharmacy operations, know how to use industry-standard software, and can step into the role without needing months of training. Think of qualifications as your way of standing out. They show you’re serious about the career and ready to succeed from day one. 
 

Bonus Read: Becoming a Pharmacy Assistant: Derek's Growth Story 
 

Do You Need a Certificate to Be a Pharmacy Assistant? 

This brings us to another frequently asked question: do you need a certificate to be a pharmacy assistant? Like a degree, a certificate isn’t legally required. However, employers increasingly prefer applicants who have completed a structured program. A Pharmacy Assistant Diploma, such as the one offered at CDI College, provides this certification. It demonstrates that you’ve completed both classroom learning and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. For many employers, this is the difference between getting your foot in the door and being passed over for a candidate who already has formal training. 

How Long Does It Take to Become a Pharmacy Assistant? 

One of the reasons this career path is so appealing is how quickly you can get started. Unlike degrees that take years, a diploma program can be completed in under a year.  At CDI College, the Pharmacy Assistant Diploma is designed to prepare you for employment in less than 12 months. You’ll take courses in pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, medical terminology, and pharmacy software, plus complete a practicum where you gain real-world experience. In less than a year, you’ll graduate job-ready and confident in your skills. 

Must-Have Skills for Pharmacy Assistants 

Whether you choose to study formally or enter the role through on-the-job training, certain skills are essential for success: 
 

• Attention to detail: Even the smallest mistake in medication preparation can impact patient health. Accuracy is critical. 
• Communication skills: You’ll interact daily with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare staff. Clear communication ensures patients understand their medications. 
• Organizational ability: Pharmacies are fast paced. Being able to multitask and stay organized is key. 
• Math skills: You’ll use basic math for dosage calculations, inventory counts, and payments. 
• Customer service: A friendly, empathetic approach builds trust and ensures patients feel supported. 
• Technological proficiency: Comfort with pharmacy software like KROLL is now an industry standard. 
   

These skills, combined with hands-on training, make you a strong candidate in today’s job market. 

The Benefits of Completing a Pharmacy Assistant Diploma at CDI College 

If you’re serious about this career, investing in a diploma program is the smartest move. The Pharmacy Assistant Diploma at CDI College offers: 
 

• Comprehensive curriculum: Covering pharmacology, pharmacy math, medical terminology, pharmacy software, and customer service skills. 
• Hands-on experience: A practicum placement where you’ll apply classroom learning in a real pharmacy. 
• Industry certifications: Earn WHMIS, First Aid, and CPR certifications as part of the program. 
• Capstone project: Put your knowledge to the test in a final project that simulates real-world challenges. 
• Expert instruction: Learn from instructors with real pharmacy experience who guide and mentor you. 
• Career services support: Access to resume help, job search tools, and interview prep for up to six months after graduation. 
   

With this diploma, you’ll graduate with the technical training, confidence, and certifications employers are looking for. 

Career Opportunities for Pharmacy Assistants 

Pharmacy assistants are in demand across Canada, particularly as the healthcare system grows and pharmacies take on greater responsibility in patient care. With training from CDI College, you can pursue roles in: 
 

• Community pharmacies (independent or retail chains) 
• Hospital pharmacies 
• Long-term care facilities 
• Online and mail-order pharmacies 
• Health product companies 

Why Choose CDI College? 

CDI College has a long-standing reputation for career-focused education in Canada. The Pharmacy Assistant Diploma program is tailored to the real needs of employers, meaning you won’t just graduate with theory you’ll graduate with practical skills and confidence. The practicum placement ensures you’re ready to handle the challenges of a real pharmacy environment. When you choose CDI College, you’re not just getting a diploma. You’re getting a supportive pathway into the healthcare industry. 

Final Thoughts: Do You Need a Degree to Be a Pharmacy Assistant? 

So, do you need a degree to be a pharmacy assistant? No. But while degrees aren’t required, qualifications matter. Completing a Pharmacy Assistant Diploma gives you a competitive edge, equips you with hands-on skills, and helps you build the confidence to succeed. In less than a year, you can go from curious student to valued member of a healthcare team, supporting pharmacists, assisting patients, and making a direct impact in your community. 
 

If you’re ready to take the next step, consider enrolling in CDI College’s Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Program. It’s your gateway to a rewarding, in-demand career that blends healthcare, customer service, and technical expertise all without the need for a degree.