South Australian pharmacists will soon receive a new pathway that expands their clinical role and strengthens primary‑care delivery. The Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing, scheduled to commence in Semester 1 2026, represents a major shift in how community pharmacy practices support patients and relieve pressure on general practitioners and emergency departments. For pharmacists looking to broaden their skill set, this program offers a structured, industry‑aligned curriculum that can be completed part‑time over twelve months.
What the Graduate Certificate Covers
The certificate consists of four six‑unit courses, each designed to provide hands‑on knowledge in specific therapeutic areas. Together, these modules cover:
- Dermatological Conditions – management of shingles, psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, and related skin issues.
- Respiratory and Ear Disorders – treatment of allergic rhinitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and common ear infections.
- Gastro‑intestinal Symptom Management – approaches to nausea, vomiting, and gastro‑oesophageal reflux.
- Preventive Care – travel health, smoking cessation, oral hygiene, weight control, and cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Hormonal Contraception and Re‑dispensing – safe contraception management and resupply protocols.
- Minor Injuries – wound care, musculoskeletal pain, and first‑aid procedures.
In each course, pharmacists will work through case‑based simulations and interactive workshops, ensuring that theory translates directly into practice. The final assessment in each module tests real‑world application through clinical scenarios that reflect everyday community pharmacy challenges.
Delivery Model Tailored for Working Pharmacists
Recognising the demands on pharmacy professionals, the program is delivered primarily online. This model allows participants to study at their own pace while maintaining existing commitments. Dedicated face‑to‑face sessions—scheduled to accommodate working schedules—focus on patient assessment techniques, hands‑on clinical skills, and the final competency examinations.
Modules are hosted on Adelaide University’s secure learning platform, providing access to recorded lectures, discussion forums, and digital resources. This blended approach mirrors the best practices in health education, combining flexibility with robust experiential learning.
How the Program Benefits the Community
Community pharmacies are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing health concerns. By equipping pharmacists with prescribing authority for the above conditions, the state can:
- Reduce unnecessary GP appointments and out‑of‑hours visits.
- Alleviate strike‑through of emergency departments for non‑critical cases.
- Deliver timely, point‑of‑care treatment, improving patient outcomes.
Data from Australia’s expanding scope‑of‑practice initiatives already show widespread improvement. For instance, over 11,000 urinary tract infection (UTI) cases were addressed through pharmacy‑led antibiotics in the past year, resulting in a 27% drop in UTI presentations to hospitals. Similar benefits are anticipated as pharmacists begin prescribing for a broader range of common ailments.
Collaboration Across the University Ecosystem
The certificate is a joint venture between Adelaide University’s School of Pharmacy, the School of Medicine, and the newly established College of Health. This collaboration brings together clinical expertise, research strengths, and industry best practices. It ensures that pharmacists receive training that meets the rigorous standards of medical education and aligns with the latest evidence‑based guidelines.
Funding and Incentives
Adelaide University has secured a $2.2 million commitment from the State Government to support graduates entering the expanded scope programme. Eligible pharmacists can apply for a partial subsidy that covers a significant portion of the estimated $12,000 tuition fee. The subsidy application process is managed through SA Health and closes on 14 November 2025 for the inaugural intake.
To apply for the subsidy, pharmacists should submit an approval request to SA Health prior to enrolling. The process is streamlined, with documents and eligibility requirements detailed on the SA Health website. For more information, visit SA Health Community Pharmacy Initiative.
How to Enrol for Semester 1, 2026
Pharmacists who wish to join the first cohort must:
- Confirm eligibility by reviewing the course requirements on the Adelaide University site.
- Complete the online application through the university’s admissions portal.
- Submit the subsidy approval request to SA Health.
- Arrange any required face‑to‑face assessment sessions.
- Receive confirmation and commence study in February 2026.
Applications open once the accreditation process concludes. Prospective students should monitor the university’s newsroom for updates and act promptly to secure a place.
What This Means for Your Practice
Pharmacists who complete the certificate will be licensed to assess and prescribe medications for the expanded list of conditions. This new role will:
- Enable you to provide comprehensive care without waiting for a GP appointment.
- Enhance your professional standing and patient trust.
- Offer potential revenue streams and greater work satisfaction.
In short, the Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing positions pharmacists at the forefront of primary‑care innovation, aligning their expertise with the evolving needs of South Australian patients.
Next Steps
Interested pharmacists should:
- Visit the Adelaide University study page to learn more about the certificate.
- Schedule a free consultation with an academic advisor.
- Review the admissions timeline to ensure timely submission.
- Apply for the subsidy through SA Health before the November deadline.
By taking these steps, pharmacists can secure their place in the first cohort and start contributing directly to better health outcomes across South Australia.
Additional Resources
For additional context on pharmacy practice evolution and state‑wide initiatives, our other articles include:
With the new Graduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing, Adelaide University sets a benchmark for pharmacy education, ensuring that practitioners remain responsive to community health demands. Don’t miss the chance to lead this change.
Submit your application today to be part of the first cohort and transform the way you serve your patients. For more details, contact Adelaide University or our admissions office. Send us your questions and we’ll guide you through the process.
