There are certain programs offered at Mohawk College that are considered highly competitive. This means these programs are extremely popular, receiving more qualified applicants for the programs than there are seats available for the fall start date.
Albert, a third-semester Pharmacy Technician Diploma student, is currently enrolled in one of these highly competitive programs. Having completed a degree from McMaster University in 2019, Albert knew a career in pharmacy technology was where he wanted to take his career.
“I first heard about the program from the pharmacy technicians at Juravinski Cancer Centre while on my co-op placement in high school, back in 2013. A year after graduating from university, I emailed Mohawk College to confirm that I had satisfied all the admission requirements and was eligible to apply,” said Albert.
Programs often become highly competitive due to a good reputation and job prospects. “I had heard from some colleagues that the Pharmacy Technician program at Mohawk College was one of the best-accredited pharmacy technician programs in Ontario,” explained Albert.
Aside from meeting the admission requirements and having a competitive grade point average, students must apply before the equal consideration date. Applying before this date ensures that applicants will be eligible for the first round of offers. For Fall programs, that date is February 1. After the equal consideration date, applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis if there are still open spots. In the case of a highly competitive program, it is unlikely that there will be spots remaining, so it is strongly suggested that anyone interested in these programs apply before February 1.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN), Cardiovascular Technology, Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant, Personal Support Worker, Practical Nursing, Practical Nursing (PSW to PN), Registered Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RPN to BScN), and of course, the Pharmacy Technician programs are all considered to be highly competitive programs offered at Mohawk’s Institute for Applied Health Sciences at McMaster Campus (also known as IAHS Campus).
Although a university degree is not an admission requirement for the Pharmacy Technician program, it did ensure Albert met the requirements. Some of his classmates entered the program directly from high school. Since starting the program, Albert has been enjoying the experience.
“My favourite class so far has been the Sterile Products Practice (PM 303) course. The course material, assignments and activities in this lab course have been very engaging and enjoyable. The instructor and teaching assistant for this course has made this class especially great through supportive and effective teaching methods,” said Albert.
Studying at IAHS Campus, which is dedicated to both college and university health sciences education and research, has its benefits. Not only are you surrounded by like-minded students, but you also get access to state-of-the-art facilities.
“The best thing about studying at the IAHS campus is the facilities used for the labs. They are thoughtfully organized in a manner that accurately simulates community and hospital pharmacy environments. These facilities are also equipped with devices and equipment used every day in pharmacy practice,” said Albert.
Gaining real-world experience in labs is critical to a student’s success once they graduate. Many programs, like Pharmacy Technician, even offer a clinical placement to put these skills into practice. Albert is looking forward to his inpatient hospital placement in the next semester to help him decide which area of the pharmacy industry he will enjoy the most.
From Albert’s first inquiry to an Outreach and Education Advisor at Mohawk College, about program admission requirements, he has been thinking one step ahead. This type of future focus is sure to contribute to his success as a student and eventually his career as a pharmacy technician.
