Outline

Overview

This unit of study focuses on the management and leadership skills required to work in contemporary pharmacy workplaces and includes a two-week work-integrated learning block in a pharmacy or healthcare setting. It covers topics including innovation, problem solving, leadership, governance, strategic thinking, project planning and entrepreneurship as well as encompassing elements of human resources, marketing and financial management. The principles covered will be applied in workshops and culminate in a collaborative group project. This group project will be a real-world project from a workplace setting and incorporate a comprehensive project plan applicable to a pharmacy or healthcare setting.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Pharmacy
Credit points	12
Prerequisites ?	PHAR3911 and PHAR3912 and PHAR3913 and PHAR3921 and PHAR3922
Corequisites ?	PHAR4941
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Jocelyn Bussing, jocelyn.bussing@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 Written exam	50%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Attendance - accreditation or faculty requirement	Placement attendance Placement attendance	0%	Multiple weeks	70 hours	Not applicable
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Problem-to-pitch video Pitch presentation - innovation/entrepreneurship	10%	Week 03 Due date: 15 Mar 2026 at 23:59	5 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Finance quiz Finance quiz	5%	Week 06	30 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Leading change proposal Placement data collection and project proposal	5%	Week 09	5 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Peer or expert observation or supervision	Preceptor assessment Assessment of student by preceptor	0%	Week 13	N/A	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Project report - submission Final report (written)	20%	Week 13	10 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Project report - presentation Final report (presentation)	10%	Week 13	7-10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Final exam (50%) - This examination will be based on recorded lectures/videos/ tutorials/workshop and other reading from the Pharmacy Management unit of study. The exam will comprise of multiple-choice and short answer and scenario based questions. You must pass this assessment to pass the unit of study.

Assessment of student by preceptor - this unit of study includes a 2-week pharmacy placement held in weeks 7 & 8. It is compulsory to attend and meet attendance requirements, meet preceptor observation expectations, portfolio tasks and data collection for a project proposal. You must pass this assessment to pass the unit of study.

Finance Quiz (5%) – this is a 30 minute quiz held in week 6 on the finance module content including recorded content, tutorial materials and required reading. It will comprise multiple choice questions.

Problem-to-pitch video (10%) – this group work assessment draws on the Problem Solving and Decision Making workshop in week -2. Students will brainstorm and research an area of need related to pharmacy and come up with solutions to address that need. Students will then document the processes undertaken, refine the idea, outline their decision making process and submit their recorded pitch in Week 3.

Leading change proposal (5%) During their placement, students will collect data to analyse a potential project for an area of need in their placement site. This may be introduced by the preceptor or observed by the student. Students will then present their project proposal to their project group in week 9. Collectively the group will determine which project to work on for the Project report submission and presentation.

Project Report Submission and Presentation (20% + 10%) – for this group work project students will select a proposal from the group in week 9 and develop a project plan including implementation. A comprehensive rubric with seven key criteria: Problem Identification and Analysis; Information Literacy & Research Skills; Critical Thinking & Analysis; Professional Context Integration; Implementation Planning & Feasibility; Communication & Professional Presentation and Reflection will be used to grade the report and presentation.

Placement Attendance - students must complete the 2-week Placement (i.e. a hurdle task) that is held in weeks 7 and 8 in order to pass the Unit of Study.

If you do not pass any hurdle assessment(s) the maximum final grade you can obtain will be 45 FA, regardless of the total raw mark you obtain for the unit of study.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

No use of AI tools (Final Exam and Preceptor assessment): 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 allowed (Finance quiz, problem to pitch video, Leading Change proposal, Project report and presentation): 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.

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	Placement (weeks 7 and 8)	Placement (70 hr)
Multiple weeks	Learning independently including pre-work and reports	Self-directed learning (100 hr)
Week -02	Problem solving and decision making	Workshop (4 hr)
Week 01	Finance 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Finance 1 and 2	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 02	Finance 3 and 4	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Finance 3 and 4	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 03	Marketing 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Marketing 1 and 2	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 04	Human Resources 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Marketing 3 and Human Resources 1	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 05	Leadership 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Human Resources 2 and 3	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 06	Leadership & Inclusion 1	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 09	Change Management 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Leadership & Resilience 2 and Project work	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 10	Change management 1 and Project work	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 11	Crucial conversations and revision	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Change management 2 and Project work	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 12	Crucial Conversations and Project work	Tutorial (5 hr)
Week 13	Presentations	Tutorial (5 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

This Unit of Study has 22 face-to-face on-campus classes. Students must attend a minimum of 85% of on-campus face-to-face classes i.e. 19 out of 22 classes , in order to pass the Unit of Study, even if they have approved Special Consideration for a missed class. In addition, students must complete the 2-week Clinical Placement (i.e. a hurdle task) that is held in weeks 7 and 8 in order to pass the Unit of Study.

If a face-to-face class that is associated with an assessment task is missed due to illness or misadventure, students are to submit a Special Consideration application, along with supporting documentation, to allow for an alternative assessment opportunity.

Students arriving more than 10 minutes after the commencement of the tutorial will be marked as absent. Students swapping a class without prior approval from the UoS co-ordinators will be marked as absent.

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

All readings for this unit can be accessed through the Library’s reading list system Leganto, available on Canvas.'

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 principles and techniques of innovative problem solving and critical thinking, and apply these to the pharmacy or healthcare setting.
LO2. Describe the strategic management process, apply it to project planning in a pharmacy or healthcare setting, and evaluate the output.
LO3. Describe the theory of marketing science, apply it to a pharmacy or healthcare setting using strategic management processes, and evaluate the output.
LO4. Explain basic accounting terminology and tools along with their application in the analysis, evaluation and financial performance of pharmacies and healthcare settings.
LO5. Describe principles of human resource management, apply it to pharmacy and healthcare settings, and evaluate the output.
LO6. Describe change management and project management principles, and apply these to design, implement, manage and lead initiatives to improve healthcare delivery.
LO7. Describe the benefits and qualities of effective leadership and apply models of leadership to pharmacy and healthcare settings.
LO8. Demonstrate knowledge of clinical governance principles and how they relate to pharmacists’ roles in various healthcare settings.
LO9. Work effectively and cooperatively as a member of a learning and/or working team.
LO10. Uphold the reputation of the pharmacy profession, including practising within relevant legal requirements, professional guidelines and ethical frameworks, and role-modelling appropriate attitudes and values.

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 - 4.9. promoting quality assurance and continuous quality improvement strategies through utilising skills in collaboration, critical thinking, curiosity and creativity
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 4.9. promoting quality assurance and continuous quality improvement strategies through utilising skills in collaboration, critical thinking, curiosity and creativity
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 4.9. promoting quality assurance and continuous quality improvement strategies through utilising skills in collaboration, critical thinking, curiosity and creativity
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 4.9. promoting quality assurance and continuous quality improvement strategies through utilising skills in collaboration, critical thinking, curiosity and creativity
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 4.10. demonstrating awareness of, and complying with appropriate policies, processes and protocols 4.9. promoting quality assurance and continuous quality improvement strategies through utilising skills in collaboration, critical thinking, curiosity and creativity
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.7. demonstrating awareness of appropriate change management principles and strategies 4.9. promoting quality assurance and continuous quality improvement strategies through utilising skills in collaboration, critical thinking, curiosity and creativity
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 4.7. providing effective leadership by taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a professional team context Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 4.7. demonstrating effective leadership skills, including taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a team context
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 4.8. demonstrating awareness of the importance of, and strategies for, promoting responsible and socially accountable stewardship of health care resources
	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.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 4.7. providing effective leadership by taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a professional team context 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 4.7. demonstrating effective leadership skills, including taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a team context
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1.4. practising legally by 1.4.a. complying with all legal obligations in their practice 1.4.b. maintaining contemporary familiarity with key legislative instruments 1.5. practising ethically and with integrity by 1.5.a. recognising ethical issues and dilemmas, including conflicts of interest, in practise as they arise 1.5.b. considering alternative strategies and adopting an appropriate course of action in response to ethical issues and dilemmas 1.5.c. maintaining current familiarity and compliance with professional codes, guidelines and standards 1.5.d. recognising and responding appropriately to situations which fall outside their current scope of practice or competence 4.7. providing effective leadership by taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a professional team context 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 1.4.b. demonstrating awareness of the processes for maintaining contemporary familiarity with key legislative instruments 1.5. practising ethically and with integrity by 1.5.a. identifying potential ethical issues and dilemmas, including conflicts of interest, relating to practice 1.5.b. considering alternative strategies and choosing an appropriate course of action in response to ethical issues and dilemmas 1.5.c. demonstrating awareness of relevant professional codes, guidelines and standards and their content 1.5.d. recognising and formulating strategies to respond appropriately to situations which fall outside their expected scope of practice or competence 4.10. demonstrating awareness of, and complying with appropriate policies, processes and protocols 4.7. demonstrating effective leadership skills, including taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a team context 5.1. demonstrating skills as a role model, facilitator and/or mentor which are appropriate to their context

Responding to student feedback

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

‘This is the first time this unit has been offered.’

Additional information

Site visit guidelines

Contact your preceptor by phone or in-person to introduce yourself and confirm your placement at least one week prior to commencement of placement.

Work, health and safety

Clinical placement checks and clearances must be up to date to attend placement sites.

Equipment: Professional attire is required for attendance at all placement sites. Students need to order a Sydney Pharmacy School Placement Shirt prior to your placement (see SPS Placements Canvas page). Students are required to wear this shirt at all times whilst on placement.

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

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

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHAR4914: Pharmacy Management

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

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

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

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links