Outline

Overview

This unit of study provides a broad introduction to the discipline of pharmacy, focusing on two complementary components that are fundamental to the study of pharmacy. By doing so, this unit provides a foundation for all future units of study in subsequent years of the degree. The pharmacy practice component includes an introduction to the roles that pharmacists play in health care as well as the skills and knowledge required of a professional pharmacist. Students are challenged to begin thinking and behaving as future members of the pharmacy profession, and reflect on attitudes and beliefs that will shape their practice. The pharmaceutical sciences component introduces aspects of the chemistry of small (drug) molecules and large biological molecules, as well as pharmaceutical calculations. Laboratory work enhances confidence and develop skills in the handling and manipulation of chemicals and in the observation and processing of experimental results. Both components provide opportunities to develop specific skills in research, critical thinking, writing, group work and presenting in the context of activities designed to orient students to their future profession.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Pharmacy
Credit points	12
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	HSC Chemistry and Mathematics Advanced (2U). Students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take a Chemistry Bridging Course (offered in February and as a distance course at other times of the year)
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Paul Groundwater, paul.groundwater@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final exam Final examination consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions (2 hours).	50%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Introduction to interprofessional learning Interprofessional learning	0%	Multiple weeks	2 hours	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Pharmaceutical calculations Perform a series of simple pharmaceutical calculations	2.5%	Week 03	55 min	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Laboratory theory and safety Describe principles of laboratory safety practices.	0%	Week 03	30 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical or creative task	Pharmacists' professional roles and activities Pharmacy visit with tasks designed to inform fieldwork presentation	0%	Week 06	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Fieldwork and pharmacist's professional roles and activities Group presentation	10%	Week 08	10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Identification of functional groups Identify functional groups in drug molecules	5%	Week 09	60 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Biological macromolecules Identify the properties of biological macromolecules.	2.5%	Week 12	20 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Introduction to an assigned drug Research information on an assigned drug.	5%	Week 12 Due date: 22 May 2026 at 23:59	Max 5 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Patient choice dilemma Group presentation	15%	Week 12	10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Laboratory observations and report Laboratory report from 2 specified practicals undertaken during semester.	7.5%	Week 13 Due date: 29 May 2026 at 23:59	3 hours	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Class participation and professionalism Marks awarded for class participation and professionalism.	2.5%	Week 13	N/A	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Final examination: Written examination answering multiple choice and short answer questions in the time specified.
Patient choice dilemma: In group, students will be assigned a pharmacy case that highlights a patient choice dilemma and will have to discuss the evidence behind the ‘medically’ correct choice and comment on the legal and ethical issues, reflect on their own opinions and present a group decision.
Fieldwork presentation: In groups, students will describe a pharmacist’s professional roles and activities based upon their placement in week 6.
Laboratory observations and report: Students will be required to keep an accurate note of their laboratory findings throughout the semester and will then be asked to submit a brief report on two specified practicals.
Introduction to an assigned drug: Students will be assigned a drug and have to research and submit a report on its structure, properties and disease targets.
Tutorial Online quiz - Early feedback task – pharmaceutical calculations: Online quiz in which students will have to perform a range of simple pharmaceutical calculations.
Tutorial quiz – functional group identification: Online quiz in which students will have to identify functionl groups in selected drug molecules.
Tutorial quiz – biological macromolecules: Online quiz in which students will have to provide information on biological macromolecues.
Small continuous assessment - class participation and professionalism: Students will be assigned a mark for their participation and professionalism in laboratory classes and workshops.
In-class assessment – laboratory theory and assessment: Online quiz on matters relating to safe laboraory practices.
Introduction to interprofessional learning (IPL): An introduction to working collaboratively with other healthcare workers. You must attend an IPL session and successfully complete all designated activities. You must pass this assessment to pass this unit of study overall.
Placements: Pharmacy visit with tasks designed to inform fieldwork presentation
No use of AI tools (Final Exam, Fieldwork and Pharmacist professional roles and activities,)
The use of automated writing tools and generative artificial intelligence is prohibited in this assessment. You are not allowed to use AI or any other software to create information or answers, to alter your own original writing, or to generate or modify text from other sources. This includes translation software, editing/paraphrasing software and other generative artificial intelligence tools.
Unapproved use is considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and may result in penalties, which can include a fail for the assessment.
AI tools permitted (Introduction to interprofessional learning, Patient Choice Dilemma, Pharmaceutical Calculations, Laboratory theory and safety, Identification of functional groups, Biological macromolecules, Class participation and professionalism, Laboratory observations and report, Pharmacist professional roles and activity, Introduction to an assigned drug)
The use of AI tools is optional. You are permitted to use automated writing tools and generative artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate your learning and completion of this assignment. Please adhere to the following guidelines:
-   Do not enter confidential, personal, copyrighted or otherwise sensitive information into any AI tool.
-   Do not rely on the accuracy of outputs. You remain responsible for your work. This means you must independently verify and edit AI-generated content to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and suitability of the output.
-   If you use these tools, you must be aware of their limitations, biases, and propensity for fabrication.
Your final submitted work must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of AI tools that have been used in the assessment, and any material that forms part of your submission, must be appropriately referenced. For guidance on how to reference and acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the AI in Education Canvas site.
You are advised to keep copies of the prompts you provided and AI outputs as evidence of your research and writing process. This allows you to produce an accurate acknowledgement of AI use when you submit your work. This can be requested by the unit coordinator if there is any uncertainty about the originality of your work.

Student input into group work presentations will form part of these assessments.

Detailed information on each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to students who demonstrate the ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding to produce original solutions for novel or highly complex problems and/or comprehensive critical discussions of theoretical concepts.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the units material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding of the subject to produce good solutions for challenging problems and/or a reasonably well-developed critical analysis of theoretical concepts.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad general understanding of the units material and can solve routine problems and/ or identify and superficially discuss theoretical concepts.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory adequately referencing the original source of the work.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Multiple weeks	Learning independently including pre-work, post-work, reports and assignments.	Self-directed learning (95 hr)
Week 01	Chemistry: The Periodic Table 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Atomic Structure 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Pharmaceutical Calculations	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Atomic Structure 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Transition to University	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Introduction to Pharmacy and Pharmacy Oath	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 02	Pharmacy Practice: Academic Integrity	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: VSEPR and Molecular Shape	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Introduction to Bonding	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Molecular Shapes and Intermolecular Forces	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Alkanes, Alkenes and Aromatics	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Introduction to the Profession	Lecture (1 hr)
	Interprofessional Learning	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Pharmaceutical Calculations	Workshop (3 hr)
	Laboratory Induction	Practical (3 hr)
Week 03	Pharmacy Practice: Professional Ethics	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Community Pharmacy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Carbonyl-containing Compounds	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Acids and Bases (Introduction)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers and Thiols	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Carboxylic Acids and Their Derivatives	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Pharmaceutical Calculations Quiz	Workshop (3 hr)
	Interprofessional Learning	Workshop (2 hr)
	Chemistry	Practical (3 hr)
Week 04	Chemistry: Amines	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Heterocycles 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Aboriginal Health	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Amino Acids, Peptides and Proteins	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Hospital Pharmacy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Heterocycles 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Interprofessional Learning	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Practice: Library Skills	Workshop (3 hr)
	Chemistry	Practical (3 hr)
Week 05	Pharmacy Practice: Aged Care Facilities	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Functional Groups in Drug Molecules	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Carbohydrates 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Carbohydrates 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Confidentiality and Ethics	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Acids and Bases 2	Workshop (3 hr)
	Chemistry	Practical (3 hr)
Week 06	Pharmacy Practice: Rural Health	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Data Analysis 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Placement (Pharmacy Fieldwork)	Placement (2 hr)
Week 07	Pharmacy Practice: Research Process 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Data Analysis 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Solutions 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Solutions 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Solutions 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Data Analysis	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Assigned Drug Workshop and Chemistry Revision	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 08	Pharmacy Practice: Research Process 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Evidence-Based Practice	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Chemical energetics 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Chemical Energetics 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Solubility 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Solubility 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry	Practical (3 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Pharmacy Fieldwork and Professional Services Presentation	Workshop (2 hr)
Week 09	Pharmacy Practice: Reflective Practice	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Pharmacy Management	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Drugs in Solution 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Drugs in Solution 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Buffers	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Chemical Kinetics 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry	Practical (3 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Rural Health	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Identification of Functional Groups and Their Properties Quiz	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 10	Pharmacy Practice: History of Pharmacy 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: History of Pharmacy 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Drugs in Solution 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Drugs in Solution 4	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry	Practical (3 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Patient Choice Dilemma	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Thermodynamics	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 11	Chemistry: Chemical Kinetics 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Chemical Kinetics 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: The Healthcare System 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Drugs in Solution 5	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Colloids and Surface Chemistry 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Colloids and Surface Chemistry 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry	Practical (3 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Professionalism in Practice	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Drugs in Solution 1	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 12	Pharmacy Practice: The Healthcare System 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: The Healthcare System 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Chemistry: Colloids and Surface Chemistry 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Dispensing Theory	Lecture (1 hr)
	Exam Questions & Answers	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pharmacy Practice: Patient Choice Dilemma Presentation	Workshop (2 hr)
	Pharmaceutical Science: Drugs in Solution 2	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 13	Dispensing Practical Aspirin mixture, Menthol and pine inhalation	Practical (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

In accordance with the progression requirements of the course resolutions, students must attend a minimum of 85% of compulsory classes (workshops, laboratory classes and placements).

Students arriving more than 10 minutes after the commencement of the laboratory / workshop / placement will not be allowed to enter and will be marked as unprofessional, which is a component of the class participation and professionalism assessment.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 12 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 240-300 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Any required readings will be listed on the Canvas site.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Describe the main characteristics of the structure and properties of drug molecules and large biological molecules.
LO2. Describe principles of laboratory safety practices and pharmaceutical calculations which underpin simple extemporaneous product preparations.
LO3. Assess and critically evaluate the appropriateness, quality and reliability of information resources used to arrive at evidence-based conclusions when solving medicine and disease-related problems in pharmacy.
LO4. Explain the fundamental characteristics and organisation of the pharmacy profession, including professional, legal and ethical considerations that inform patient care.
LO5. Discuss the pharmacist’s role in ensuring safe and effective provision of medicines and health services across Australian health settings, and how this contributes to and complements the roles of other health professionals.
LO6. Communicate effectively and appropriately, in a culturally-capable manner with peers, university staff and health professionals.
LO7. Apply appropriate writing and referencing techniques, including appropriately acknowledging sources, to uphold academic honesty.
LO8. Demonstrate responsibility for personal and professional development through independent learning and continuous reflection.
LO9. Work effectively and cooperatively as a member of a learning team.
LO10. Identify the different elements of a unit of study (including learning outcomes, learning tasks, assessments and feedback) and recognise how they contribute to learning.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.1. formulating appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.a. applying relevant underpinning knowledge
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3.12. consistently making accurate arithmetic calculations relating to health care 3.15. preparing and supplying extemporaneously compounded medications safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.1. formulating appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.a. applying relevant underpinning knowledge 3.12. consistently making accurate arithmetic calculations relating to health care 3.15. preparing and supplying extemporaneously compounded medications safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 5.4. contributing to the evidence base through engaging in research and inquiry, including 5.4.b. identifying and critically appraising relevant source materials 5.5. accessing, using, adapting and sharing information and/or other technologies to meet the needs of current and emerging professional practice Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.1. formulating appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.b. using a systematic approach to access, critically evaluate and apply relevant evidence 5.4. demonstrating skills in research and inquiry, including 5.4.b. identifying and critically appraising relevant source materials 5.5. accessing, using, adapting and sharing information and/or other technologies to meet the needs of current and emerging professional practice
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.4. practising legally by 1.4.a. demonstrating contemporary knowledge and application of legal requirements relating to community and hospital pharmacy practice within their jurisdiction 1.5. practising ethically and with integrity by 1.5.c. demonstrating awareness of relevant professional codes, guidelines and standards and their content
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.3. contributing to, and taking prominent roles where appropriate in the interprofessional collaborative health care team, in order to optimise patient outcomes, by 2.3.a. respecting and appreciating the complementary roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.3. contributing to the interprofessional collaborative health care team in order to optimise patient outcomes by 2.3.a. demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of the roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. using verbal, written and non-verbal communication which is appropriately tailored to the professional practice context and the capabilities and health literacy of the other person(s) 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner in professional practice 2.1.c. engaging in culturally appropriate and sensitive communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori people in professional practice which respects their history, culture and protocols 2.1.d. using appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours in professional practice interactions 2.3. contributing to, and taking prominent roles where appropriate in the interprofessional collaborative health care team, in order to optimise patient outcomes, by 2.3.b. creating and maintaining effective intra-and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. demonstrating appropriately tailored verbal, written and non-verbal communication 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner 2.1.c. demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori history, communication styles and community protocols 2.1.d. demonstrating appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours 2.3. contributing to the interprofessional collaborative health care team in order to optimise patient outcomes by 2.3.b. creating and maintaining effective intra- and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1.9. upholding and advancing the reputation and value of the profession 5.4. contributing to the evidence base through engaging in research and inquiry, including 5.4.e. reporting and disseminating the outcomes appropriately Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.9. upholding and maintaining the reputation and value of the profession 5.4. demonstrating skills in research and inquiry, including 5.4.e. reporting and disseminating the outcomes appropriately
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1.6. adopting a proactive and reflective approach to maintaining and developing their own professional competence and expertise in order to remain fit-to-practise 4.1. engaging in regular and systematic reflection to enhance professional learning and practice 4.2. identifying and acknowledging professional limitations and seeking appropriate support where necessary, including additional professional education and/or referral of patients to other health care professionals Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.6. demonstrating a proactive and reflective approach to developing their own professional competence and expertise 1.8. accepting personal responsibility and accountability for decisions and actions in simulated and/or work-integrated learning environments 4.1. undertaking regular reflection as a means of enhancing learning and practice 4.2. demonstrating awareness of professional limitations and adopting appropriate strategies where necessary, including additional professional education and/or referral of patients to other health care professionals
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner in professional practice 2.3. contributing to, and taking prominent roles where appropriate in the interprofessional collaborative health care team, in order to optimise patient outcomes, by 2.3.a. respecting and appreciating the complementary roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team 2.3.c. consistently engaging in appropriate teamwork behaviours Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. demonstrating appropriately tailored verbal, written and non-verbal communication 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner 2.1.c. demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori history, communication styles and community protocols 2.1.d. demonstrating appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours 2.3. contributing to the interprofessional collaborative health care team in order to optimise patient outcomes by 2.3.a. demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of the roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team 2.3.c. demonstrating appropriate teamwork behaviours
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 5.2. demonstrating awareness of effective processes for facilitating learning, including aims, learning outcomes, learning activities, assessment and feedback

Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1.6		adopting a proactive and reflective approach to maintaining and developing their own professional competence and expertise in order to remain fit-to-practise
1.9		upholding and advancing the reputation and value of the profession
2.1.a		using verbal, written and non-verbal communication which is appropriately tailored to the professional practice context and the capabilities and health literacy of the other person(s)
2.1.b		engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner in professional practice
2.1.c		engaging in culturally appropriate and sensitive communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori people in professional practice which respects their history, culture and protocols
2.1.d		using appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours in professional practice interactions
2.3.a		respecting and appreciating the complementary roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team
2.3.b		creating and maintaining effective intra-and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives
2.3.c		consistently engaging in appropriate teamwork behaviours
3.12		consistently making accurate arithmetic calculations relating to health care
3.15		preparing and supplying extemporaneously compounded medications safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements
4.1		engaging in regular and systematic reflection to enhance professional learning and practice
4.2		identifying and acknowledging professional limitations and seeking appropriate support where necessary, including additional professional education and/or referral of patients to other health care professionals
5.4.b		identifying and critically appraising relevant source materials
5.4.e		reporting and disseminating the outcomes appropriately
5.5		accessing, using, adapting and sharing information and/or other technologies to meet the needs of current and emerging professional practice

Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1.1		promoting both the best interests and safety of patients and the public
1.4.a		demonstrating contemporary knowledge and application of legal requirements relating to community and hospital pharmacy practice within their jurisdiction
1.5.c		demonstrating awareness of relevant professional codes, guidelines and standards and their content
1.6		demonstrating a proactive and reflective approach to developing their own professional competence and expertise
1.8		accepting personal responsibility and accountability for decisions and actions in simulated and/or work-integrated learning environments
1.9		upholding and maintaining the reputation and value of the profession
2.1.a		demonstrating appropriately tailored verbal, written and non-verbal communication
2.1.b		engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner
2.1.c		demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori history, communication styles and community protocols
2.1.d		demonstrating appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours
2.2		documenting, communicating and recording relevant information, findings, decisions, recommendations and other information accurately and concisely, taking due account of privacy and confidentiality
2.3.a		demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of the roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team
2.3.b		creating and maintaining effective intra- and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives
2.3.c		demonstrating appropriate teamwork behaviours
3.1.a		applying relevant underpinning knowledge
3.1.b		using a systematic approach to access, critically evaluate and apply relevant evidence
3.12		consistently making accurate arithmetic calculations relating to health care
3.15		preparing and supplying extemporaneously compounded medications safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements
4.1		undertaking regular reflection as a means of enhancing learning and practice
4.2		demonstrating awareness of professional limitations and adopting appropriate strategies where necessary, including additional professional education and/or referral of patients to other health care professionals
5.4.b		identifying and critically appraising relevant source materials
5.4.c		undertaking relevant investigations, where appropriate
5.4.e		reporting and disseminating the outcomes appropriately
5.5		accessing, using, adapting and sharing information and/or other technologies to meet the needs of current and emerging professional practice

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

In response to USS feedback we have spaced out the assessments more and made slight changes to the workshops to enable more chemistry support.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Work, health and safety (WHS) requirements relating to the fieldwork in week 6 will be outlined on Canvas.

Principles of laboratory safety practices relating to laboratory sessions will be assessed in the laboratory theory and safety online task.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHAR1911: Fundamentals of Pharmacy

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links