Bridging Programs for Internationally Educated Pharmacists
Bridging-program requirements are province-specific. A bridging program is required for many internationally educated pharmacists applying in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario or Quebec, subject to exemptions established by the applicable regulator. For example, Ontario applicants who pass both parts of the PEBC Qualifying Examination on their first attempt are exempt from Ontario’s approved IPG bridging program.
Who Should Consider a Bridging Program?
You may consider a bridging program if you:
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Are required to complete remediation after multiple exam attempts
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Have been out of practice for an extended period
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Want structured preparation before reattempting exams or entering training
Bridging programs may be recommended or required, depending on your situation.
Purpose of the bridging programs
Bridging programs aim to:
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Support transition into Canadian pharmacy practice
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Strengthen understanding of Canadian laws, ethics, and professional standards
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Enhance clinical decision-making and communication skills
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Address gaps between international education and Canadian practice expectations
What Bridging Programs May Include
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.
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
Completion of PEBC Document Evaluation or other academic review, if required
2
Language Proficiency
Proof of English or French proficiency, as required by the institution
3
Application
Application submitted directly to the university or institution offering the program
4
Completion of Program
Successful completion of all academic and experiential components
Popular Bridging Programs in Canada (Click on the program to learn more)
University of Toronto's International Pharmacy Graduate (IPG) Program
The International Pharmacy Graduate Program is Ontario’s OCP-approved bridging program. The program is approximately 25 weeks and prepares internationally educated pharmacists to meet Canadian entry-to-practice requirements. Check the university website for current tuition, admission requirements and session dates.
University of British Columbia's Canadian Pharmacy Practice Program
The Canadian Pharmacy Practice Program consists of 12 weeks of virtual classroom instruction followed by a 12.5-week in-person Structured Practical Training practicum. Check UBC’s website for current admission requirements, dates and fees.
University of Alberta - Certificate to Canadian Pharmacy Practice
The Certificate to Canadian Pharmacy Practice is a 10-month, three-term program delivered through online and in-person components. The currently listed tuition is $13,500, but applicants should confirm the fee before applying.