Diploma Pharmacy Services SCQF level 7

The Diploma in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7 allows trainees to demonstrate competence in job-related skills in their particular area of work and expertise.

The Diploma in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7 provides trainees with an understanding of physiological systems, clinical disease states and the actions and uses of medicines. This qualification also covers areas such as clinical, operational and scientific practices and procedures.

If trainees successfully complete the Diploma in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7, and meet the minimum relevant work experience criteria, they can apply to the General Pharmaceutical Council for registration as a pharmacy technician.

This qualification is available through colleges, employers and training providers.

Use the tabs below to open each section individually. Alternatively you can show all the sections.

Why deliver this qualification

The Diploma in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7 has been developed in partnership with employers and industry so it is suitable for the current sector.

Diploma holders will gain an international recognised qualification which guarantees that they have the skills, knowledge and abilities required to carry out their role successfully. Employers will also benefit from their employees being proficient.

The Diploma will help employers meet skills gaps and provide continuing professional development for staff, while trainees will gain knowledge and skills needed for progression in the workplace.

It can also be offered to people who are in training and who wish to gain employment in the sector.

The achievement of the SVQ in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 8 and the PDA in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7 contribute towards the successful completion of this qualification.

The Diploma can be offered in any of the following modes:

  • full-time
  • part-time (eg day-release)
  • open and distance learning

This Diploma provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).

Who does this qualification suit

The target audience is those in work, or seeking employment, who require a specific skill set.

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the centre. Trainees should be in a job or placement where they are carrying out relevant tasks and responsibilities which allow them to gather the required evidence.

Trainees would benefit from having attained the skills, knowledge and understanding required by one or more of the following or equivalent qualifications and/or experience:

  • Biology, Chemistry, English and Mathematics at SCQF level 5 or equivalent.
  • NC Applied Sciences at SCQF level 5 (chemistry and biology based).
  • Other relevant academic courses or standalone units demonstrating achievement at SCQF level 5.
  • Employment in a pharmacy as a pre-registration pharmacy technician and nominated by employer, along with evidence of Biology, Chemistry, English and Mathematics ability at SCQF level 5.

Progression

The Diploma could provide progression to:

  • employment in the pharmacy sector as a pharmacy technician
  • degree level study at a higher education institution

However, successful completion of the Diploma is not a guarantee of future employment as a pharmacy technician.

Approval

Centres interested in offering this qualification will have to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide. 

Where can you take this course?

Qualification content and delivery tools

Information about the qualification(s)

Qualification Structure

Group Award code: GR2H 47 (225 SCQF credit points).

The Diploma in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7 consists of an SVQ in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 8 and a PDA in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7.

Further information on each qualification can be accessed via the following qualification webpages:

General Pharmaceutical Council

  • The General Pharmaceutical Council's accreditation/recognition reports and the timescales for future accreditation/recognition events can be viewed on the General Pharmaceutical Council's website.

Information about delivery, assessment, quality assurance and support material

Qualifications Support Team (QST) - Action Grids

Mapping Guidelines

Mapping guidelines for the: Diploma in Pharmacy Services at SCQF level 7 (102 KB)