Resources for professional students

Regular attendance is key to your success at the College of Pharmacy. To foster a vibrant learning environment, we expect all students to attend classes consistently. If you anticipate being away for more than two days for reasons other than illness, please reach out to the associate dean (academic) for prior approval.

Important reminder: Students with three or more unexcused absences from continuous sessions may be barred from attending class and/or final exams. Your engagement matters!

If you find yourself unable to meet academic commitments due to illness or injury, please contact the College of Pharmacy as soon as possible.

For term work—such as classes, quizzes, midterms, assignments, or labs—please email your instructor from your University of Manitoba email address. Make sure to include your name, student number, course number, and details of the academic work that you missed.

For final exams, reach out to our dedicated student advisor and program coordinator, Cheryl Lee, within 48 hours of the exam date. In your email, provide your name, student number, and the course number for the exam. 

All students are required to maintain certification in both first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Book your courses through the University of Manitoba to ensure you receive the appropriate training. Please note that all costs are your responsibility.

Keep in mind: CPR Level Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR Health Care Provider (HCP) certifications must be recertified annually, while Standard First Aid certification is valid for three years and must be renewed upon expiry.

To ensure the safety and well-being of our community, all students in the College of Pharmacy must complete the immunization package as outlined in your student welcome letter. For full details, please visit the Immunization Program page.

We encourage a focused learning atmosphere. Please turn off your cell phones and other communication devices during classes (this applies to in-person sessions only).

Important note: Smart phones and other electronic devices with large memory storage capabilities are strictly forbidden during exams unless you have specific authorization from your course professor.

Lockers are available through the dean's office on a first-come, first-served basis at no cost to you. They’re a convenient way to keep your belongings secure while you focus on your studies!

We value the intellectual property of our instructors and the University of Manitoba. All course materials, presentations, and lectures are protected by copyright.

Please remember: Audio or video recording of lectures or presentations is not permitted in any format without prior permission from the course coordinator. Course materials (both paper and digital) are intended for your private study and research.

To continue your journey toward becoming a pharmacist, you must file an application for registration as a student with the The College of Pharmacists of Manitoba before classes start in September. Information will be included in your admission package and is also available from the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba.

Note: Failure to complete this requirement will prevent participation in the Introductory/Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences. For more information on the requirements for licensure in Manitoba, consult the Registrar of the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba.

If your academic status changes (e.g., if you take a leave or exit the program), the College of Pharmacists will be notified by the College of Pharmacy.

Under specific circumstances, deferrals for examinations (mid-term, final) and other in-course evaluations (such as quizzes, assignments) are available. These circumstances typically include medical or compassionate reasons.

Mid-term exams

If a student cannot write a mid-term examination or complete other in-course evaluations, they should promptly contact the course coordinator.

Final exams

Students may request a deferred final examination from the Dean of the College of Pharmacy for reasons including illness, disability, bereavement, or compassionate grounds. Requests should ideally be made before the final exam, but must be filed within forty-eight (48) hours of the missed examination or, if multiple exams are missed, within forty-eight (48) hours of the last missed exam. The Dean will decide on approval based on the provided evidence.

Students may also request deferred exams due to:

• Participation in scholastic or athletic events at various levels.
• Religious observances.

Requests for such deferrals should typically be made twenty (20) working days before the scheduled examination.

Any student requesting deferred examinations must sign an undertaking stating they have not accessed or discussed the exam contents unless expressly authorized by the instructor.

For detailed guidance on applying for deferred exams, consult the Examination Regulations under "Final exam conflicts and deferral".

Supplementary exams are not commonly available across courses and are granted at the discretion of the Dean of the College of Pharmacy. If approved, these exams are typically scheduled for mid-summer following the academic session.

Eligibility criteria

Students in years 1-4, who receive no more than one grade of "D" during the academic session and achieve a minimum combined fall and winter term GPA of 2.00, may, at the discretion of the Dean, be allowed to sit for a supplementary examination in the respective course.

Limitations

Supplementary exams will not be granted under the following circumstances:

• If a student receives more than one grade of "D" during the academic session within any year.
• If a student receives a grade of "F" during the academic session within the year.

Maximum attempts

Each student in the Pharmacy program is allowed a maximum of two supplementary exams throughout their academic tenure.

Application process

Application forms for supplementary examinations can be obtained from the Dean's office. A prescribed fee may apply for these exams.

Grading policy

Students who sit for supplementary exams cannot be awarded a grade higher than a "C" in the respective course. The grade achieved in the supplementary examination will replace the original grade recorded on the student's academic record.

To facilitate adequate feedback, students will be given the opportunity to review their own final examination script along with any comments made on it before the formal grade appeal deadline. However, this review must be supervised either by the instructor or a designated staff member appointed by the faculty, school, or academic unit.

Supervised review process

• Students can access their final examination script and comments under supervision.
• This review opportunity is provided to ensure transparency and facilitate the feedback process.

Machine-scored answer sheets

• There is no mandatory requirement for faculties, schools, or academic units to provide access to machine-scored examination answer sheets for student consultation.
• Faculties, schools, and academic units are expected to offer alternative feedback mechanisms.
• Instructors are encouraged, where feasible, to engage in discussions regarding selected questions and answers to enhance student understanding.

Prepare yourself and your device for the exam by following the steps below. Give yourself plenty of time so that you can trouble-shoot any issues that may come up.

• Run any pending updates on your computer and restart the device.
• Install Examplify on your computer and set your password.
• Familiarize yourself with the software - mock exams are available by request.

• Once the exam has been posted, you will receive an email notification to download the exam. It is recommended that you download the exam at your earliest convenience. You do not have to wait until the day of the exam to do this. You will not have access to the exam material.
• When it is time to write the exam you will log into Examplify and click on your exam.
• You will be given the password to start your exam. Once you enter the password, your computer will go in lockdown mode and you can begin writing your exam. Please note that Examplify automatically saves your answers every minute.
• Upload your exam when complete. Ensure that you keep Examplify open until all files have been uploaded.
• Ensure your test was successfully uploaded. You will see a green screen which means you have successfully uploaded your exam.

IMPORTANT: There is a time limit for each exam which will force you to upload the exam when the clock runs out.

• Ensure you select your answer and that you have not inadvertently used the strike-out feature.
• Comments and feedback may be provided at the bottom of each question. No extra time is given for this, so make sure you manage your time accordingly. These comments are provided to the course leader after each exam.
• Ensure that you enter your answers to the essay questions in the correct space, do not put your answer in the notes section.
• If you have significant questions or concerns about an exam question, please record this in the feedback section. You may also contact your Course Coordinator. 
• Remember to turn your anti-virus software back on after your exam.

If you are still experiencing difficulties, you may wish to email ExamSoft or call their support line at 866-429-8889 or 954-429-8889.

All courses approved by the university Senate are included in Aurora.

Class schedules are available through Aurora.

The College of Pharmacy is dedicated to ensuring that graduates possess the necessary qualifications—specialized knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours—to enter the regulated profession of pharmacy in Canada. This commitment is vital for serving society effectively.

Graduates' competencies

Graduates must competently provide pharmaceutical care and apply their expertise as medication therapy specialists across a variety of practice settings. They are expected to integrate the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to fulfill the seven educational outcomes established by the Association of Faculties of Pharmacy of Canada (AFPC):

• Care provider
• Communicator
• Collaborator
• Manager
• Advocate
• Scholar
• Professional

The College of Pharmacy prioritizes the safety and effectiveness of healthcare for patients. Therefore, it is essential that students meet all necessary functions outlined below before graduation.

Evaluation of skills

Prospective applicants should be aware that cognitive, physical assessment, management skills, communication skills, and professional behaviours are evaluated through time-restricted simulations of patient and healthcare professional encounters throughout the program. In addition to obtaining a pharmacy degree, successful demonstration of these skills is required during the written examination and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) administered by the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC). This ensures that candidates meet the requirements for becoming a registered/licensed pharmacist.

By accepting admission and enrolling in the undergraduate program, pharmacy students confirm that they have read and understood the essential functions necessary for success in both the program and as healthcare professionals.

Essential functions for pharmacy students

A pharmacy student must possess aptitude, abilities, and skills in six critical areas:

1. Observation and perception
   Students must participate in learning situations and acquire information through their senses and mental abilities. This includes engaging progressively in patient encounters and gathering information through visual, auditory, and somatic sensations.
2. Sensory and motor competencies
   Students need specific sensory and motor skills to perform pharmacist duties efficiently. Adequate vision is essential for reading prescriptions, observing classroom demonstrations, and conducting physical exams. Students must also possess the ability to prepare and dispense medications, administer injections, and respond promptly to emergencies.
3. Conceptualization, integration, and quantitative evaluation
   Students must learn through diverse methods such as individual study, team projects, and technology utilization. They should be able to transcribe numbers accurately, perform calculations, and apply knowledge to create comprehensive patient care plans under time-sensitive conditions.
4. Communication
   Effective communication with patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals is crucial. This includes using patient-friendly language, demonstrating active listening skills, and documenting findings clearly and professionally.
5. Ethical, interpersonal, and professional skills
   Students must engage with integrity and respect, recognizing the trust inherent in the patient relationship. They should demonstrate critical thinking and emotional stability in challenging situations and provide compassionate care to all patients.
6. Stamina
   Students must maintain high levels of physical, emotional, and mental performance, demonstrating resilience to the demands of the program. They should be open to constructive criticism and adapt their behaviours accordingly.

Reasonable accommodations

The College of Pharmacy is committed to providing the necessary support to help pharmacy students succeed. Some skills may be achieved with reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities. For detailed information, please refer to the Accessibility Policy and Procedure.

All accommodations must be approved through Student Accessibility Services. Students anticipating disability-related accommodations are responsible for notifying Student Accessibility Services in a timely manner, either at the time of application or throughout their pharmacy education program. Students are expected to complete the pharmacy degree within four years; however, those with disabilities may request extensions on a case-by-case basis.

By upholding these standards and supporting students, the College of Pharmacy ensures that each graduate is well-prepared to enter clinical practice, residency, or fellowship training with confidence and competence.

At the College of Pharmacy, we are committed to your academic journey and want to empower you to achieve your goals. Understanding course progression is key to ensuring your success as you navigate through your studies.

Minimum GPA and course requirements

To progress in your program, aim for a minimum combined GPA of 2.00 for both the fall and winter terms. Additionally, you must earn a passing grade of "C" in each course. For courses evaluated on a pass/fail basis, achieving a "pass" is essential, as detailed in your course outline.

What happens if you don’t pass?

If you don’t achieve a passing grade of "C" in a course but your GPA remains at or above 2.00 after any supplementary exams offered, you’ll need to repeat that course. The Dean of the College of Pharmacy may also require you to repeat additional courses based on your performance.

If you fail to achieve a "C" in two courses while maintaining a GPA above 1.75, you will also be required to repeat those courses, with the possibility of needing to repeat additional courses at the Dean’s discretion.

Important considerations

If you fail more than one year in the program or repeat the same year twice, you will need to withdraw from the pharmacy program. If you do not pass more than two courses in an academic session, or if your GPA falls below 1.75, you will also be required to withdraw.

Your right to appeal

We believe in transparency and fairness. All students who experience challenges will have their records reviewed by the Pharmacy College Council, but the discussions are not open for debate. If you disagree with any decisions made, you have the right to file an appeal following the University of Manitoba’s student policies and procedures.

We understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes stepping away from your studies is the best decision for your well-being and academic success. At the College of Pharmacy, withdrawals allow you to leave a class or program without academic penalty, giving you the flexibility to navigate challenges with confidence.

Types of withdrawals

Whether you need to withdraw from a single course or multiple, we’re here to guide you through the process. There are different types of withdrawals depending on your circumstances. Each offers a way to maintain your academic standing while addressing personal needs.

How to request a withdrawal

To begin the process, submit a written request to the dean’s office outlining your reasons for withdrawal. We’re here to help you every step of the way, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Re-entry after withdrawal

If you voluntarily withdraw from the College of Pharmacy, re-entry will depend on the availability of space and external rotation facilities. However, if you've withdrawn more than once from the program, re-entry will not be permitted. It's important to note that withdrawals due to medical or compassionate reasons do not count toward this limit.

Medical withdrawals

If you withdraw for medical reasons, re-registering is possible once you've established your fitness to resume studies. This will require proper medical consultation and documentation to ensure you are ready to succeed.

Requirements for reinstatement

When you’re ready to return, your reinstatement will be based on current and satisfactory results in the following areas:

• Criminal records check
• Child abuse registry and adult abuse registry search results
• College of Pharmacists (CPhM) registration
• Immunization records
• Standard First Aid and CPR (HCP) certification

In some cases, reinstatement may also require signing an agreement with the College of Pharmacy or CPhM to adhere to specific terms and conditions.

At the College of Pharmacy, we want you to feel confident and supported in your academic journey. If you believe a grade doesn't reflect your efforts or understanding, you have options to ensure your voice is heard.

Step 1: Start the conversation

Begin by discussing your concerns directly with your instructor. Often, a simple conversation can clarify misunderstandings and provide valuable feedback. Your instructors are here to help you succeed, and addressing your concerns together can lead to positive outcomes.

Step 2: File a formal appeal

If you still feel that your grade requires further review after speaking with your instructor, you have the right to file a formal appeal. This process ensures your perspective is considered fairly and transparently.

In your academic journey, embracing integrity is essential for your growth and success. Plagiarism, which involves taking someone else's ideas or words and presenting them as your own, is a serious offense. It’s more than just a simple mistake; it’s akin to stealing intangible property.

Acknowledging sources: A mark of respect

While you don’t need to cite well-known facts or easily verifiable information, it's crucial to acknowledge the sources of ideas and expressions in your written work, whether quoted directly or paraphrased. This principle extends to diagrams, statistical tables, and any other material you use.

Providing adequate documentation reflects your commitment to academic honesty and shows respect for the work of others. It also allows your readers to easily consult your sources. Remember, failing to document your sources constitutes plagiarism, which can have serious consequences.

Understanding the consequences

Submitting work that is not your own—whether a term paper written by someone else or copying answers during tests and assignments—will be considered plagiarism and/or cheating. The repercussions of such actions can be severe, including suspension or expulsion from the college or university.

If you're found guilty of contributing to cheating in any examination or term assignment, you will also face serious penalties. Be aware that group projects in the College of Pharmacy are subject to the same standards of academic honesty as individual projects. It is essential that all group members exercise special care to ensure that their contributions uphold academic integrity. If a violation occurs, all members of the group will be held jointly accountable unless responsibility can be attributed to a specific individual.

Reporting and accountability

At the College of Pharmacy, any suspected cases of academic dishonesty will be referred to the dean’s office for evaluation. This process ensures that integrity is maintained at all levels.

Empower yourself with knowledge

To fully understand your responsibilities, take the time to review the university’s policy on academic integrity. By committing to these principles, you are not only protecting your academic career but also contributing to a culture of trust and respect within the academic community.

Pharmacy is more than just a profession; it is a commitment to the service of public health. As future pharmacists, you are stepping into a role that requires not only knowledge and skills but also a profound sense of responsibility.

As students and future practitioners, it is your duty to promote and adhere to these ethical guidelines. By doing so, you will contribute to the public's best interests and enhance the esteem of the pharmacy profession. One of the fundamental principles you must uphold is the confidentiality of patient information.

Take action: Understand your responsibilities

To ensure you are equipped for this responsibility, you are required to read the CPhM Code of Ethics thoroughly. This will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your obligations. Additionally, you must complete the College of Pharmacy Pledge of Confidentiality Form, which includes essential details about maintaining patient confidentiality.

Important note: Entry to clinical classes

Please be aware that no student will be permitted entry to clinical classes without completing the Pledge of Confidentiality Form. This step is crucial in preparing you for a successful career in pharmacy, where patient trust is paramount.

The consequences of breaching confidentiality

Remember, any breach of patient confidentiality is taken seriously and may result in removal from the pharmacy program. This underscores the importance of your commitment to ethical practice and the protection of patient information.

Embrace your future with integrity

As you pursue your education and future career in pharmacy, embrace the principles of integrity, respect, and responsibility. Your journey is just beginning, and by adhering to these ethical standards, you will become a trusted and valued member of the healthcare community. 

As you embark on your educational journey, it's essential to understand that the practice of pharmacy is guided by the Code of Ethics. This code outlines the canons of professional conduct that apply to you as students of the profession. Upholding these ethical standards is crucial for fostering trust and respect within the community.

Statement I:
Pharmacists shall maintain a high standard of professional competence throughout their practice.

Statement II:
Pharmacists shall cooperate with colleagues and other health care professionals to ensure optimal patient-centered care.

Statement III:
Pharmacists shall contribute to societal health needs and promote justice in the distribution of health resources.

Statement IV:
Pharmacists shall respect and protect the patient's right to privacy.

Statement V:
Pharmacists shall respect the autonomy, values, and dignity of each patient.

Statement VI:
Pharmacists shall respect and maintain a professional relationship with each patient.

Statement VII:
Pharmacists shall hold the health and safety of each patient to be of primary consideration.

Statement VIII:
Pharmacists shall act with honesty and integrity.

Statement IX:
Pharmacists shall respect the rights of patients to receive healthcare.

Statement X:
Pharmacists shall respect and honour the profession of pharmacy.

At the University of Manitoba and the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA), we are dedicated to fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and support. We believe that every student and employee deserves a work and learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, and violence.

Your rights matter

Everyone at the University and within the WRHA has the right to a respectful environment. This means you can expect:

Protection against discrimination and harassment

We stand firmly against any form of discrimination and human rights-based harassment. This includes unfair treatment or failure to provide reasonable accommodations based on factors such as:

• Ancestry
• Gender
• Religion
• Sexual orientation

Imagine a space where everyone is treated equally, and every voice is valued. If you feel that your rights have been violated, we want you to know that you are not alone.

A safe space free from sexual harassment

We are committed to ensuring that no one faces unwanted sexual attention or gender-based abusive conduct. This includes:

• Sexist jokes or remarks
• Inappropriate gestures or physical contact
• Reprisals for rejecting sexual advances

We believe in empowering individuals to speak up, and we encourage you to take action if you ever feel unsafe.

Support against personal harassment

Personal harassment is not tolerated in our community. It includes any behavior that creates an intimidating or humiliating atmosphere. For example, being referred to with derogatory nicknames can create a hostile environment that hinders learning and growth.

Zero tolerance for sexual assault

Sexual assault, defined as the intentional sexual touching of another person without consent, has no place in our community. We urge you to reach out if you or someone you know has experienced such an incident.

Know your resources

To ensure you feel supported, we offer several resources for students who have concerns or allegations regarding prohibited behaviors. You can seek informal resolution or pursue formal complaints under the respectful work and learning environment (RWLE) and sexual assault (SA) policies and procedures.

Where to find help

Here are some vital resources at the University of Manitoba:

• The Associate Dean (Academic) of the College of Pharmacy: A trusted point of contact for academic-related concerns.
• The Office of Human Rights and Conflict Management: A dedicated team to guide you through your rights and support options.
• The Student Advocacy Office (SAO): Advocacy and support for students navigating challenges.
• WRHA respectful workplace policy: A commitment to maintaining a respectful work culture.
• Sexual violence support and education: Programs designed to provide awareness and assistance.