August 22, 2025

If you’re eager to start a career in healthcare but don’t want to spend years in university, becoming a pharmacy assistant could be the path for you. One of the first things people ask is: how long does it take to become pharmacy assistant? The answer is encouraging this is one of the fastest ways to enter the healthcare field, often taking less than a year. 

 
In this guide, we’ll walk through the different training paths, the skills you’ll need, and how the Pharmacy Assistant Diploma at CDI College prepares students for success in a short amount of time. 

Understanding the Role of a Pharmacy Assistant 

Before we look at the timeline, it’s important to understand what pharmacy assistants do. They are essential team members who help pharmacists manage the daily operations of a pharmacy. 

Common responsibilities include: 

• Entering prescriptions into pharmacy software systems 
• Counting and packaging medications under a pharmacist’s supervision 
• Managing stock levels and ordering supplies 
• Answering phones and assisting customers with basic questions 
• Processing insurance claims and handling payments 
• Helping maintain a safe, clean, and organized workspace 
   

In short, pharmacy assistants make sure everything runs smoothly behind the counter while ensuring patients get their prescriptions quickly and accurately. 
 

Bonus Read: How Do I Become a Pharmacy Assistant? 

Do You Need a Degree? 

The first piece of good news is that you don’t need a university degree to work as a pharmacy assistant. While pharmacists require years of advanced education, pharmacy assistants can qualify much faster. The minimum requirement is usually a high school diploma or equivalent. However, employers increasingly prefer applicants who have completed a formal training program, which helps them step into the role with confidence. 

How Long Does It Take to Become Pharmacy Assistant in Canada? 

The length of time depends on the path you choose. Let’s look at the main options. 

1. Learning On the Job 

Some smaller or independent pharmacies may hire assistants without prior training. In this case, you would learn directly from the pharmacist or senior staff. On-the-job training can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the employer. This is the quickest entry point, but it has limitations. Without formal qualifications, your career growth may be restricted, and larger employers like hospitals or retail chains may not consider your application. 

2. Completing a Diploma Program 

The most reliable route is completing a Pharmacy Assistant Diploma. At CDI College, this program can be finished in under a year. In that time, students gain both the theoretical knowledge and the hands-on experience employers expect. The program is structured so you’re not just memorizing terms you’re learning to use real pharmacy software, practicing pharmaceutical calculations, and developing customer service skills. You also complete a practicum, where you apply what you’ve learned in a real pharmacy environment. 

3. Other Academic Routes 

In some places, you might see certificate or associate degree options that take longer anywhere from one to two years. While these can provide additional knowledge, they aren’t necessary qualification for pharmacy assistant roles in Canada. For most students, the fastest and most effective option is the diploma pathway. 

Step-by-Step Timeline 

Here’s a breakdown of what the journey might look like if you choose the diploma route at CDI College: 

Step 1: Meet the Entry Requirements 

Start with a high school diploma or equivalent. If you’ve already completed this, you’re ready for the next step. 

Step 2: Enrol in the Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Program 

This program typically takes less than 12 months. Courses include pharmacology, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, customer service, and pharmacy math. 

Step 3: Graduate and Job Hunt 

With your diploma, practicum experience, and certifications (such as WHMIS, First Aid, and CPR, which are built into the program), you’re fully prepared to apply for pharmacy assistant positions. 
 

From start to finish, you could be ready for employment in less than a year. 

Why Employers Value Formal Training 

While it’s possible to enter the field without a diploma, most employers now prefer candidates who already have structured training. Here’s why: 
 

• Less Training Time: Graduates need less supervision and can contribute right away. 
• Software Knowledge: Familiarity with pharmacy systems like KROLL makes you an asset from day one. 
• Customer Service Readiness: Training programs prepare you for patient interactions, an essential part of the job. 
• Certifications: WHMIS, First Aid, and CPR make you more versatile in healthcare environments. 
   

A diploma doesn’t just speed up your job search, it sets you apart in a competitive job market. 

Skills You’ll Build Along the Way 

During your training, you’ll develop a mix of technical and soft skills that employers look for in pharmacy assistants: 
 

• Attention to detail for accurate prescription handling 
• Mathematical skills for calculating doses and managing billing 
• Communication skills for interacting with patients and healthcare staff 
• Customer service to ensure positive experiences for every client 
• Organizational ability to manage a fast-paced environment 
• Technological skills for working with pharmacy software 
   

These are the skills that help you succeed once you’re hired and CDI College’s program is designed to help you build them quickly. 

Why Choose CDI College? 

The Pharmacy Assistant Diploma at CDI College is built for students who want to enter the workforce quickly and with confidence. Here’s why it’s a strong choice: 
 

• Finish in under a year 
• Learn from experienced instructors with pharmacy backgrounds Complete a capstone project to demonstrate your skills 
• Earn additional certifications like WHMIS, First Aid, and CPR 
• Access six months of career services after graduation to help with resumes and job searches 
   

It’s a program that balances theory with hands-on learning, giving you everything you need to start a meaningful career in healthcare. 

Final Thoughts 

So, how long does it take to become a pharmacy assistant? The answer is surprisingly quick. With a diploma program like the one at CDI College, you can complete your training and be ready for employment in less than a year. While on-the-job training is possible, a structured program gives you stronger qualifications, more confidence, and better job prospects. If you’re ready to enter the healthcare field without spending years in school, becoming a pharmacy assistant is one of the most efficient ways to do it. Take the first step today and explore CDI College’s Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Program your future in healthcare could be less than a year away.