Bridging Programs for Internationally Educated Pharmacists

Bridging programs are designed to help internationally educated pharmacists (IEPs) acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to meet Canadian practice standards.

Purpose of the bridging programs

  • Provide essential Canadian pharmaceutical knowledge and practices.
  • Facilitate the transition of internationally educated pharmacists into the Canadian healthcare system.
  • Ensure that IEPs meet the professional and regulatory requirements needed to practice in Canada.

Components of Bridging Programs

  • Educational Courses: These courses cover areas such as Canadian pharmacy law, ethics, communication skills, and clinical practice.
  • Practical Training: Includes hands-on experience in a clinical setting, allowing pharmacists to gain practical skills under supervision.
  • Language Proficiency: Programs often offer language support to help pharmacists achieve the necessary level of English or French proficiency.
  • Examination Preparation: Specific courses to prepare for the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) exams and other required assessments.
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Steps to Enroll in a Bridging Program

Follow these steps to enroll in a bridging program and start your journey towards becoming a licensed pharmacist in Canada:

1

Assessment of Qualifications

Before enrolling in a bridging program, pharmacists need to have their educational credentials assessed by the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC). This step determines if the individual’s foreign education is equivalent to Canadian standards.

2

Language Proficiency

Provide proof of language proficiency in English or French to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in a Canadian healthcare setting.

3

Application

After assessment and language proficiency confirmation, pharmacists can apply to accredited bridging programs. These programs help fill any gaps in knowledge and skills.

4

Completion of Program

Successfully complete all components of the bridging program, including educational courses, practical training, and language proficiency support.

Popular Bridging Programs in Canada (Click on the program to learn more)

University of Toronto's International Pharmacy Graduate (IPG) Program

Offers comprehensive courses and practical training.


Estimated cost: Approximately CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000

University of British Columbia's Canadian Pharmacy Practice Program

Focuses on clinical skills and Canadian pharmacy practices.


Estimated cost: Approximately CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000

University of Alberta - Certificate to Canadian Pharmacy Practice

Includes both classroom and experiential learning components.


Estimated cost: Approximately CAD 12,000 to CAD 18,000

Benefits of the bridging programs

  • Improved Employability: Enhances job prospects by equipping pharmacists with Canadian-specific skills and knowledge.
  • Professional Integration: Helps IEPs integrate into the Canadian healthcare system and culture.
  • Networking Opportunities: Provides opportunities to connect with other professionals and potential employers.

Cost and financial assistant:

  • Program Fees: Costs vary depending on the institution and length of the program.
  • Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans may be available to help cover the costs.
  • Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships for internationally educated professionals are offered by universities and organizations, potentially covering part or all of tuition fees (e.g., University-specific, Canadian Pharmacists Association).
  • Grants: Need-based grants from government programs, non-profits, and educational institutions do not require repayment (e.g., newcomer support programs, provincial grants).
  • Loans: Educational loans, available from financial institutions and government programs, help cover tuition and expenses (e.g., Canadian government student loans, private bank loans).
  • Bursaries: Need-based bursaries from universities and professional organizations offer financial support without repayment (e.g., university-administered, community organization bursaries).
  • Payment Plans: Some institutions allow tuition to be paid in installments, making costs more manageable over time.

 

Program Fees:

The cost of enrolling in a bridging program for internationally educated pharmacists can vary significantly based on several factors, including the institution offering the program, the length and comprehensiveness of the program, and additional services provided (e.g., exam preparation courses, language support). Here’s a general idea of what you might expect:

  • Tuition Fees: These can range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 25,000 for the entire program.
  • Additional Costs: There may be additional fees for textbooks, materials, lab fees, and administrative costs.

Examples of bridging program costs:

  1. University of Toronto’s International Pharmacy Graduate (IPG) Program:
    • Estimated cost: Approximately CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000
  2. University of British Columbia’s Canadian Pharmacy Practice Program:
    • Estimated cost: Approximately CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000
  3. University of Alberta’s Bridging Program:
    • Estimated cost: Approximately CAD 12,000 to CAD 18,000