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New Zealand and Australian BPharm Graduates

If you wish to become a registered pharmacist on completion of your New Zealand or Australian BPharm degree, you are required to complete a minimum of 44 weeks practical training in a pharmacy and the EVOLVE Intern Programme of the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand Inc. Please note, Australian graduates must have completed a programme from a School of Pharmacy that has been approved by the Australian Pharmacy Council (formerly COPRA) - please click here to see the list of approved Schools.

All applicants must meet the English language requirements prior to entering the EVOLVE Intern Programme.

The EVOLVE Intern Programme is a structured programme to assist you, with the guidance and help of pharmacists, to reach the level of competence required to register as a pharmacist in New Zealand. To secure a place in the programme you must complete the appropriate application form, which will be available from the School of Pharmacy during September and on the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand (Inc).

To view the Pharmacy Council's Intern Training Policy - click here

What is the purpose of the practical training?

The training period is a time in which you develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes of a competent pharmacist. You will learn to apply the academic knowledge you gained at Pharmacy School, develop confidence in communicating with the public and other health professionals, and gain experience of the situations and events that occur in the pharmacy workplace.

The EVOLVE Intern Programme includes assignments, appraisals and training days which complement the practical training provided by your preceptor and staff in the pharmacy. Throughout the programme you are assessed against competence standards. Assessment is by a combination of on-the-job appraisals, written assignments and structured practical assessments. During the year you will attend two 3 day workshops which reinforce on-the-job training and provide insights into other facets of pharmacy practice.

How long is the intern training?

As approved by the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand, the EVOLVE Intern Programme runs from 1 February to 30 November each year, although intern pharmacists must remain working in sites until mid December, which is when results of the programme are available. All intern pharmacists must complete a minimum of 44 weeks training in their sites between these dates. It is strongly recommended that graduates begin working in their sites as soon as possible after graduation (December) so as to maximise their opportunities for experience and learning.

For more specific information on the EVOLVE Intern Programme please contact the EVOLVE team