Curtin University of Technology has developed a new course to help address the ongoing global shortage of allied health professionals.
The new graduate entry Master of Pharmacy course is being offered for the first time in WA and targets skilled professionals who want a speedy route to a new career.
Professor Jeff Hughes, Head of Curtin’s School of Pharmacy, said the new course was being offered at the right time.
“The world is experiencing a chronic shortage of allied health professionals, like pharmacists, speech pathologists and occupational therapists, and this trend will only continue to worsen,” he said.
“Through this course, new pharmacists can be trained in only two years to enter the workforce.
“Pharmacists are much needed as they play an important role in not only ensuring that patients receive optimal medication therapy, but they also provide primary health care to the community by helping to diagnose and manage minor ailments.”
The new course has already attracted a variety of applicants who want a change in career.
“We have had applicants from all walks of life for our first intake in 2010,” Professor Hughes said.
“Most want to re-skill themselves and take on the diverse and flexible role of a pharmacist.
“One of our more interesting applicants is a General Practitioner with more than 30 years of experience in his profession.”
“He now wants to learn more about pharmacy in order to provide better health care to patients and possibly take on a new career.”
Applicants for the graduate entry Master of Pharmacy course should have a relevant bachelor degree or equivalent, and completed at least one tertiary unit in mathematics, statistics, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, human biology and physiology.
The closing date for applications is 9 December 2009 for the course commencing in February 2010.
For more information, please contact Petra Czarniak on 08 9266 7419.
