Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy offered by Canadian College of Excellence

Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy 
 (24 Month, 104 Weeks) 100% Remote Program

Section 1: Program Overview

1.1 Introduction

The Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry. The program's primary goal is to produce competent pharmacy professionals who can contribute effectively to various sectors of healthcare. Through a balanced curriculum focusing on pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy, regulatory affairs, and research, the program aims to prepare students for roles in pharmaceutical manufacturing, clinical practice, research, and regulatory compliance. 

Goals:

• To provide students with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in pharmacy to meet the demands of the healthcare sector in Dubai.
• To equip students with the necessary expertise to effectively contribute to pharmaceutical practice, research, and industry.
• To cultivate professionalism, ethical values, and critical thinking abilities in students, preparing them for successful careers in pharmacy.
• To promote innovation and adaptability among students, enabling them to embrace advancements in pharmaceutical sciences and technologies.

Objectives:

• To deliver comprehensive instruction in pharmaceutical sciences, including pharmacology, pharmacotherapy, pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmaceutics, and pharmacokinetics.
• To facilitate hands-on training in compounding, dispensing, and pharmacy practice management, ensuring students develop practical skills essential for the profession.
• To engage students in research activities, fostering their ability to critically analyze literature, design experiments, and contribute to advancements in pharmaceutical knowledge.
• To provide opportunities for experiential learning through internships, clinical rotations, and industry placements, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
• To instill ethical values, professional conduct, and communication skills in students, preparing them for ethical practice and effective collaboration within interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
• To encourage continuous professional development among students, promoting lifelong learning habits and readiness to adapt to evolving pharmaceutical practices and regulations.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the Two-Year Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, including drug mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and pharmaceutical formulation principles.
• Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to assess medication therapy, identify drug-related problems, and propose appropriate interventions.
• Competently compound and dispense medications, ensuring accuracy, safety, and adherence to regulatory standards.
• Communicate effectively with patients, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders, demonstrating empathy, cultural sensitivity, and professionalism.
• Conduct pharmaceutical research, including literature review, experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation, contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical knowledge.
• Apply ethical principles and legal regulations governing pharmacy practice, demonstrating integrity, honesty, and accountability in professional conduct.
• Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration within healthcare teams to optimize patient care outcomes and promote public health initiatives.
• Pursue lifelong learning and professional development opportunities to stay abreast of advancements in pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare practices.

The program is designed to meet the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical sector, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to address current challenges and contribute to innovation and advancement in the field.

1.2 Program Structure and Curriculum

The Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy is a 24-month program consisting of a total of 80 credits. The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of key areas within the pharmaceutical sciences and related fields. The program comprises the following components: 

Core Courses: Foundational courses covering topics such as pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutical formulation, clinical pharmacy, Pharmacoeconomics, and regulatory affairs. 

Elective Options: Students may have the opportunity to choose elective courses based on their interests or career goals, allowing for specialization in specific areas such as advanced drug delivery systems, pharmacogenetics, or herbal medicines. 

 

Specialized Tracks or Concentrations: While the program does not offer specific tracks or concentrations, students may tailor their elective course selection to focus on areas of interest or career relevance. 

The curriculum is designed to align with industry standards and emerging trends in the pharmaceutical sector, ensuring that graduates possess the knowledge and skills required to excel in diverse roles within the field.

1.3 Admission Requirements

Admission Process: The admission process involves submitting an application form along with academic transcripts, undergoing any required assessments or interviews, and meeting the program's eligibility criteria. Admission decisions are based on the applicant's academic background, relevant experience, and commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare.

 

Educational Qualifications: Applicants should have completed secondary education or its equivalent, such as a high school diploma or an international baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

A strong background in mathematics, science, and computer science may be advantageous for an AI diploma program.

English is the primary language of instruction in Canadian College of Excellence, Dubai, applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS if the English score in high school diploma or its equivalence is below 60%. 

Interview: CCE, Dubai interviews all eligible applicants, before their provincial letter of admission, test applicant academic readiness, academic and technical proficiency, Interest, and passion in the program-subject chosen, communication skills, problem solving and critical thinking skills and ability to collaborate with peer group and Faculty to successfully complete their academic program. 

The admission process aims to identify motivated and qualified candidates who demonstrate the potential to succeed in the program and make meaningful contributions to the healthcare profession.

 

Section 2: Program Evaluation

2.1 Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program, students will demonstrate the following learning outcomes:

Pharmaceutical Sciences: Develop a deep understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, including pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, and microbiology, to analyze and solve complex pharmaceutical problems.

Clinical Pharmacy Practices: Acquire proficiency in clinical pharmacy practices, including patient assessment, medication therapy management, and counseling, to provide optimal pharmaceutical care.

Regulatory Affairs: Gain insights into pharmaceutical marketing, sales, and regulatory affairs, to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and ethical standards.

Pharmacoeconomics and Health Outcomes Research: Develop advanced skills in Pharmacoeconomics, health outcomes research, and pharmaceutical analysis, to assess the economic and clinical impact of pharmaceutical interventions.

Leadership and Entrepreneurship: Cultivate leadership, management, and entrepreneurial skills relevant to the pharmaceutical industry, to lead and innovate in a dynamic healthcare environment.

Ethics and Professionalism: Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior in all aspects of pharmacy practice, to uphold the highest standards of integrity and patient care.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals from diverse disciplines, to optimize patient outcomes through integrated healthcare services.

Communication and Advocacy: Communicate effectively with patients, caregivers, and healthcare teams, to promote medication adherence and advocate for patient-centered care.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify, evaluate, and resolve pharmaceutical issues, to improve patient care and medication safety.

Research and Innovation: Engage in research and innovation in pharmaceutical sciences, to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the field.

Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Commit to lifelong learning and professional development, to stay abreast of advances in pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare delivery.

Global and Cultural Competence: Demonstrate global and cultural competence in pharmacy practice, to address the diverse needs of patients and communities in a multicultural society.

 

2.2 Curriculum Mapping

The curriculum of the Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program is mapped to the defined learning outcomes through a comprehensive set of courses and learning activities. Each course is designed to contribute to the achievement of specific learning outcomes, ensuring alignment with the program's goals. Regular review and updates of the curriculum are conducted to maintain its relevance and alignment with industry needs and best practices.

Course	Weekly Coverage	Reference Books
Foundations of Pharmaceutical Sciences   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Introduction to pharmaceutical sciences Week 2: Pharmaceutical chemistry principles Week 3: Pharmacology basics  Week 4: Pharmaceutical microbiology fundamentals	Pharmacy Technician: The Foundations and Practices, 3rd edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2020  Mike Johnston
Organic Chemistry for Pharmacy   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Structure and properties of organic molecules. Week 2: Functional groups in medicinal chemistry Week 3: Organic reactions and mechanisms Week 4: Stereochemistry and its significance in drug design	Pharmacy Technician: The Foundations and Practices, 3rd edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2020  Mike Johnston
Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Principles of pharmacodynamics Week 2: Pharmacokinetics and drug absorption Week 3: Drug metabolism and elimination. Week 4: Drug-receptor interactions and signal transduction pathways.	Pharmacology for Nurses: A Pathophysiologic Approach, 7th edition Published by Pearson (October 3, 2023) © 2024Michael P. Adams & Norman Holland
Pharmaceutical Formulation and Dosage Forms   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Pharmaceutical dosage forms and their classification Week 2: Principles of pharmaceutical formulation Week 3: Solid, liquid, and semi-solid dosage forms Week 4: Parenteral and novel drug delivery systems	Pharmacy Technician: The Foundations and Practices, 3rd edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2020  Mike Johnston
Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Assurance   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Analytical techniques in pharmaceutical analysis Week 2: Spectroscopic methods and chromatography Week 3: Validation and calibration in analytical chemistry Week 4: Quality control and assurance in pharmaceutical manufacturing	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Clinical Pharmacy and Patient Care   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Introduction to clinical pharmacy practice Week 2: Patient assessment and medication history taking. Week 3: Therapeutic drug monitoring and dose adjustment Week 4: Pharmacotherapy of common diseases and patient counseling	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Pharmaceutical Biotechnology   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Basics of biotechnology and genetic engineering Week 2: Recombinant DNA technology and gene cloning Week 3: Biopharmaceuticals and their production Week 4: Regulatory considerations in biopharmaceutical development	Compounding: The Pharmacy Technician Series, 1st edition  Published by Pearson (July 6, 2005) © 2006  Mike Johnston
Pharmacotherapeutics and Drug Therapy   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Rational drug use and pharmacotherapy principles Week 2: Pharmacotherapy of cardiovascular diseases Week 3: Pharmacotherapy of infectious diseases Week 4: Pharmacotherapy of respiratory diseases	Compounding: The Pharmacy Technician Series, 1st edition  Published by Pearson (July 6, 2005) © 2006  Mike Johnston
Pharmaceutical Marketing and Sales   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Principles of pharmaceutical marketing Week 2: Market analysis and segmentation Week 3: Pharmaceutical sales techniques and strategies Week 4: Regulatory aspects of pharmaceutical promotion	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Introduction to pharmaceutical regulations Week 2: Regulatory requirements for drug approval Week 3: Good manufacturing practices (GMP) and quality assurance Week 4: Pharmacovigilance and post-marketing surveillance	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Pharmaceutical Law and Ethics   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Legal framework governing pharmacy practice Week 2: Professional responsibilities and liabilities Week 3: Intellectual property rights in pharmaceuticals Week 4: Ethical considerations in research and practice	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Clinical Trials and Drug Development   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Phases of clinical trials Week 2: Clinical trial design and methodology Week 3: Regulatory requirements for clinical trials Week 4: Data analysis and interpretation in clinical research	Compounding: The Pharmacy Technician Series, 1st edition  Published by Pearson (July 6, 2005) © 2006  Mike Johnston
Pharmacoeconomics and Health Outcomes Research   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Introduction to pharmacoeconomics Week 2: Economic evaluation methods in healthcare Week 3: Health outcomes research and quality of life assessment Week 4: Cost-effectiveness analysis and decision-making in healthcare	Pharmacology for Nurses: A Pathophysiologic Approach, 7th edition Published by Pearson (October 3, 2023) © 2024Michael P. Adams & Norman Holland
Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Advanced techniques in pharmaceutical formulation Week 2: Controlled release drug delivery systems Week 3: Nanotechnology applications in drug delivery Week 4: Regulatory considerations for novel drug delivery systems	Pharmacology for Nurses: A Pathophysiologic Approach, 7th edition Published by Pearson (October 3, 2023) © 2024Michael P. Adams & Norman Holland
Pharmaceutical Entrepreneurship and Innovation   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Entrepreneurial opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry Week 2: Business planning and financing for pharmaceutical startups Week 3: Intellectual property management and technology transfer Week 4: Innovation and product development in pharmaceuticals	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Advanced Pharmacology and Toxicology   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Mechanisms of drug toxicity Week 2: Adverse drug reactions and drug interactions Week 3: Pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine Week 4: Regulatory toxicology and safety assessment	Pharmacology for Nurses: A Pathophysiologic Approach, 7th edition Published by Pearson (October 3, 2023) © 2024Michael P. Adams & Norman Holland
Pharmaceutical Management and Leadership   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Principles of pharmaceutical management Week 2: Organizational behavior and leadership skills Week 3: Strategic planning and decision-making in pharmaceutical companies Week 4: Human resource management and team building	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Herbal Medicines and Nutraceuticals   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Introduction to herbal medicine and traditional remedies Week 2: Phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of herbal medicines Week 3: Regulatory considerations for herbal products Week 4: Nutraceuticals and dietary supplements	Compounding: The Pharmacy Technician Series, 1st edition  Published by Pearson (July 6, 2005) © 2006  Mike Johnston
Advanced Pharmaceutical Analysis   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Advanced techniques in pharmaceutical analysis  Week 2: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC) Week 3: Mass spectrometry in pharmaceutical analysis Week 4: Stability testing and degradation studies.	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Advanced Drug Delivery Systems   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Advanced drug delivery strategies Week 2: Targeted drug delivery and site-specific targeting Week 3: Transdermal and mucosal drug delivery systems Week 4: Biomaterials and their applications in drug delivery	Drugs and Behavior: An Introduction to Behavioral Pharmacology, 8th edition  Published by Pearson (July 13, 2021) © 2018  Stephanie Hancock
Pharmacogenetics and Personalized Medicine   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Introduction to pharmacogenetics Week 2: Genetic variations and drug response Week 3: Pharmacogenomic testing and its clinical implications Week 4: Personalized medicine approaches in healthcare	Compounding: The Pharmacy Technician Series, 1st edition  Published by Pearson (July 6, 2005) © 2006  Mike Johnston
Pharmaceutical Research Project   Hours: 100 Weeks: 5 Credits: 4	Week 1: Formulation of research questions and objectives Week 2: Literature review and research design Week 3: Data collection, analysis, and interpretation Week 4: Thesis writing and presentation of research findings

The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure its alignment with the program's goals and industry standards.

2.3 Teaching and Learning Strategies

Instructional methods and strategies employed within the program include lectures, interactive discussions, case studies, laboratory experiments, simulations, role-plays, group projects, presentations, and practical training in pharmaceutical settings. These strategies support student engagement, active learning, critical thinking, and practical application of knowledge. Innovative approaches and technologies, such as e-learning platforms, virtual laboratories, and simulation software, are utilized to enhance the teaching and learning experience.

Instructional methods and strategies include:

• Lectures and presentations for theoretical knowledge.
• Practical exercises, role-playing, and case studies for active learning.
• Hands-on practice sessions for skill development.
• Group discussions and interactive sessions for critical thinking and application of knowledge.
• Use of simulation models, diagrams, and technology to enhance learning experience.
• Guest speakers and field visits to provide real-world insights into healthcare practices.

2.4 Assessment Methods

Assessment methods used to evaluate student learning and progress within the program include both formative and summative assessments. Examples of formative assessments include quizzes, assignments, group discussions, and laboratory reports, providing ongoing feedback to students. Summative assessments include exams, projects, research papers, and presentations, evaluating students' attainment of desired competencies. External assessments or certifications may also be included to ensure alignment with industry standards and requirements.

Section 3: Faculty and Resources

3.1 Faculty Qualifications

The faculty members delivering the Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy possess exemplary qualifications and expertise in their respective fields. They hold advanced degrees in pharmacy or related disciplines and have extensive professional experience in the pharmaceutical industry or academia. Many faculty members have also made significant research contributions in areas such as drug development, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical technology. Faculty development and professional growth are actively supported within the institution through continuous training, workshops, and participation in conferences to ensure they remain updated with the latest advancements in the field.

The resume detailing the educational qualifications, professional work experience, relevant research and thesis work, laboratory experience are included along with copies of certificates for the following faculty:

• Dr. Shakila Akter
• Dr. Thanvika Medepudi
• Dr. Farzana Afroz
• Dr. Shiekh M. Shoeb
• Dr. Gulshan Akter

3.2 Academic Resources

Our institution is committed to providing state-of-the-art academic resources to support the learning and research needs of our students enrolled in the Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program. The specific academic resources including eLearning/ digital content offered to students are:

• D2L- Brightspace -Learning Management System 
• McGraw Hill Connect
• Pearson Higher Education Online Resource
• eBookshelf-Vitalsource

 

 

 

 

 

Our academic resources are regularly evaluated and upgraded to ensure they align with the evolving needs of the program curriculum and industry standards. We welcome feedback from students and faculty to continuously improve the quality and accessibility of our resources.

 

3.3 Student Support Services

Our institution is committed to providing comprehensive student support services to assist students in their academic journey and ensure their success in the Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our student support services are designed to promote student success, well-being, and engagement throughout their academic journey. We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive and achieve their goals in healthcare education and practice.

 

Section 4: Continuous Improvement

4.1 Program Evaluation and Feedback Mechanisms

Our Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program is committed to gathering feedback from various stakeholders to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. We employ multiple mechanisms for feedback collection, including: 

• Student surveys conducted at regular intervals to gauge satisfaction levels, identify areas for improvement, and understand student needs and concerns. 
• Alumni surveys to assess the program's impact on graduates' careers and to gather insights on areas for enhancement based on their professional experiences. 
• Faculty evaluations by students to evaluate teaching effectiveness, course content, and overall faculty support. 
• Employer feedback obtained through surveys or focus groups to understand industry needs, assess graduates' preparedness, and identify areas where the program can be improved. 
• Advisory board meetings involving industry professionals, alumni, faculty, and students to discuss program strengths, weaknesses, and potential improvements. 

Feedback gathered from these sources is carefully analyzed and utilized to identify areas for improvement. We prioritize continuous refinement of the program based on this feedback to ensure its alignment with current industry standards and best practices. 

 

 

4.2 Quality Enhancement Initiatives

Our institution is deeply committed to continuous improvement and quality enhancement of the Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program. Recent initiatives undertaken to enhance program quality include: 

• Curriculum revisions to incorporate emerging trends, new technologies, and advancements in the field of pharmacy. 
• Faculty development programs to ensure that instructors remain updated with the latest developments in pharmaceutical sciences and teaching methodologies. 
• Integration of new technologies, such as simulation labs and e-learning platforms, to enhance student learning experiences. 
• Collaborations with industry partners to provide students with practical exposure, internships, and opportunities for hands-on learning in real-world pharmacy settings. 

These initiatives reflect our dedication to ensuring that our program remains relevant, rigorous, and responsive to the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical industry.

4.3 Program Review and Monitoring

Our institution conducts regular program reviews and monitoring activities to ensure ongoing program quality and effectiveness. These reviews are conducted annually and involve comprehensive assessments of various program components, including: 

• Curriculum alignment with program objectives, industry requirements, and regulatory standards. 
• Faculty qualifications, teaching effectiveness, and professional development activities. 
• Student performance, satisfaction levels, and outcomes assessment. 
• Facilities, resources, and infrastructure supporting the program delivery. 
• External accreditation standards and benchmarks. 

The institution conducts regular program reviews and monitoring to ensure ongoing program quality:

• Annual Reviews: A comprehensive review of the program is conducted annually to assess its effectiveness, relevance, and compliance with accreditation standards.
• External Evaluations: External evaluators, including accreditation bodies and industry experts, are invited to review the program and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Data Analysis: Quantitative and qualitative data, including student performance metrics, feedback surveys, and employment outcomes, are analyzed to identify trends and areas for improvement.

Results from program reviews are carefully analyzed, and action plans are developed to address any identified areas for improvement. Our institution remains committed to transparent and accountable processes for program review and monitoring, ensuring that our Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program consistently meets high standards of quality and excellence.

Section 5: Conclusion

In conclusion, our Advanced Diploma in Pharmacy program is committed to maintaining high-quality educational standards and preparing students for successful careers in the pharmaceutical industry. Through robust feedback mechanisms, continuous quality enhancement initiatives, and regular program review and monitoring activities, we ensure that our program remains relevant, responsive, and effective in meeting the needs of students, employers, and the broader community. 

We welcome external review and feedback from the Accreditation Committee to further enhance our program's quality and effectiveness. Thank you for considering our institution for programmatic accreditation. We look forward to the opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to providing a high-quality education in pharmacy.