Full-ride scholarship to support future pharmacy technicians
Medicine Hat College’s (MHC) new Pharmacy Technician diploma program received a significant injection of support with $30,000 in full-ride scholarship funding from Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) on behalf of the Co-operative Retailing System (CRS).
The two-year program, which was announced in early March, is already seeing strong applications for its first cohort in Fall 2025. Today’s commitment from FCL means students entering the program in 2025 and 2026 will have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship worth $15,000 to cover expenses over the two-year diploma.
"Medicine Hat College is proud to continue our partnership with FCL in support of student success," said Jennifer Kerslake, Director of Community Engagement at MHC. "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."
This initiative builds on MHC’s strong relationship with FCL and the Co-operative Retailing System who has been a valued partner in supporting education and community development. The ongoing contributions demonstrate a shared dedication to investing in students, expanding access to education, and meeting the growing need for skilled professionals in our region.
Medicine Hat College will become the only postsecondary institution in southern Alberta to offer pharmacy technician training in response to increasing demand for pharmacy technicians in the region and across Alberta. With waitlists at other provincial colleges, MHC’s push to offer this program already has strong local support from private and public health stakeholders
Shauna Wilkinson, FCL’s Vice-President of People and Culture shared, “Co-op is proud of this continued partnership and investment in cultivating the next generation of leaders. At the heart of the Co-op is a commitment to nurturing and empowering individuals in local communities to feel at home, and to find success, community, and purpose. Offering students financial relief breaks down barriers, fosters connections, and grows dynamic talent streams with fresh perspectives in local communities and industries – ensuring sustained success in rapidly evolving markets.”
Building on the success of an existing pharmacy technician program, MHC will deliver NorQuest College’s nationally accredited curriculum. Practicums and work integrated learning opportunities will be regionally focused, supporting the needs of businesses and health care providers in southern Alberta.
Pharmacy Technician is a licensed, regulated career with an expanding scope of practice. Techs are trained to compound, prepare, and dispense prescriptions and pharmaceutical products under the direction of pharmacists and help handle the flow of the pharmacy environment. They also provide services that promote health and wellness, as well as safe and effective drug distribution. Pharmacy technicians work in a variety of community pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities and can also find employment with health insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, and pharmacy suppliers.
For more information about the program, or to apply, please visit the Pharmacy Technician webpage.