JAMES Cook University is expanding its pharmacy program to offer students the opportunity to base themselves in Cairns and MacKay as well as on the Townsville campus.
The university's Head of Pharmacy, Associate Professor John Smithson, told the Cairns Post that the program would give students a greater choice when it comes to their location.
"Where previously students had to relocate to Townsville to study the Bachelor of Pharmacy on campus, from next year they will be able to choose from three locations," he said.
"The course will be taught through a mix of online and on-campus sessions.
"Flexible delivery means everyone, from school leavers to those planning a career change while balancing work and family, will be able to complete this degree in Cairns [or MacKay].
"This is a big step forward for the profession, making it possible to train pharmacists in the regions that need them."
Cairns-based pharmacy owner, and James Cook University's Pharmacy Advisory Committee Chair, Nick Loukas, said the decision to expand the course into the university's Cairns and MacKay campuses was a significant boost for the North Queensland university.
"This new offering means we can grow our own pharmacy professionals," he said.
"There are many opportunities for graduate pharmacists in our region and with the extended scope of practice now available, it's a rewarding career."
The decision to take the university's pharmacy program to multiple campuses was announced as the Queensland Government prepares a $150 million rescue package to assist the state's universities cope with the impact of COVID-19.
Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, said the funding would help keep universities open in the state and safeguard jobs.
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