Structured Practical Training (SPT)

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Structured Practical Training (SPT)

For information about the SPT requirement for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, refer to the relevant section below.

SPT for Pharmacist Licensing

Structured Practical Training (SPT) is a practice-based training requirement for licensing as a full pharmacist in British Columbia and must be completed through full enrolment in the Canadian Pharmacy Practice Program (CP3) at the University of British Columbia (UBC).

CP3 consists of 24 weeks of instruction, which includes virtual classroom sessions (12 weeks) and in-person direct patient care SPT (12.5 weeks). Conducted under the supervision of a qualified preceptor at a licensed pharmacy, the CP3 program provides applicants with the opportunity to gain Canadian pharmacy practice experience and demonstrate their competence and readiness to practice pharmacy in BC.

For complete information about the CP3 program, including program registration, fees, and scheduling, visit:

SPT is required for the following applicants:

Refer to LCP-6 for further details: Licence Committee Policy-6: Structured Practical Training Requirements for Pharmacists.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the CP3 program, you must:

  1. Submit the Licence Application – Part 1
  2. Satisfy the English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements (for IPG only)

Note: If you have not yet met the ELP or work authorization requirements at the time of submitting your licence application, you will still be permitted to enroll in the CP3 program. However, both requirements must be met before you can start the SPT component of CP3.

Process Overview
  1. Submit the Licence Application – Part 1 and satisfy the ELP requirements
  2. Enroll in the Canadian Pharmacy Practice Program (CP3)
  3. Complete CP3 (24-week program consisting of virtual classroom and Structured Practical Training)
  4. CP3 notifies CPBC of your SPT result approximately one week after your SPT is finished.
  5. Your SPT results are recorded in your eServices account, under My Assessments

SPT for Pharmacy Technician Licensing

Structured Practical Training (SPT) is a practice-based training requirement for licensing as a pharmacy technician in British Columbia. Conducted under the supervision of a qualified preceptor at a licensed pharmacy, the SPT program provides applicants with the opportunity to apply the knowledge, skills, and abilities gained through their education or prior practice. It also allows applicants to demonstrate their competence and readiness to practice pharmacy in BC.

For information about SPT, refer to:

SPT is required for the following applicants:

Eligibility

To be eligible for the SPT program, you must:

  • Submit the Licence Application – Part 1
  • Be graduated from your pharmacy technician program
Process Overview

  1. Submit the Licence Application – Part 1

  2. Complete the following WorkSafeBC training:

    • Young & New Worker – Understand your rights and responsibilities:
      Young & New Worker Resource
    • Bullying & Harassment Resources:
      • Fact Sheets & FAQs
      • Videos:
        1. Worker-to-Worker Bullying and Harassment
        2. Employer Addresses a Bullying and Harassment Complaint
        3. 3When the Employer is the Bully
        4. What Does Bullying and Harassment Mean for You and Your Workplace?
           
  3. Find a Preceptor
    • Identify a qualified preceptor who will supervise your training, provide feedback, and act as a mentor. Refer to the SPT Guide for preceptor qualification requirements.
       
  4. Determine your SPT start date
    • Confirm your SPT start date with your preceptor. The start date must be on a Monday.
       
  5. Submit your SPT Application
    • Submit the SPT Application at least 10 business days before your intended start date.
    • Email the application to [email protected]
    • Allow up to 5 business days for your application to be processed.
    • Once processed, you will receive a confirmation email with the SPT Program Package, and your SPT dates

    Note:

    • You must begin your SPT within 6 months of applying. If not, you will need to reapply and pay the fee again.
    • Application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
       
  6. Complete the SPT Program
    • Complete all training activities as outlined in your SPT Program Package.
    • Submit all required documentation by the deadlines specified in your confirmation email.
    • Allow up to 5 business days for document review
    • Once reviewed and approved, you will receive a final email confirming your SPT completion.