Program levels
Three levels of increasing responsibility
The Structured Practical Training (SPT) program consists of three levels. Throughout each level of the program, interns will complete program activities grouped according to entry-to-practice competencies; as well as preliminary, midpoint and final self-assessments.
| Level | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competencies to develop and demonstrate to preceptor |
|
|
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| Hours* | 450, or more | 450, or more | 100, or more |
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*Additional hours are often required to demonstrate all competencies. The preceptor will determine when the requirements have been met. |
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Recent Canadian graduates may be eligible to enter directly into Level 2 or Level 3
University of Alberta pharmacy graduates
Clinical rotations of at least 900 hours completed by students of the University of Alberta pharmacy program will be considered equivalent to Level 1 and Level 2 of the SPT program if the student registers in the SPT program and completes Level 3 within 1 year of graduation. Before entering Level 3, graduates must complete the Jurisprudence Learning Module and pass the Ethics & Jurisprudence exam.
Canadian pharmacy graduates
Clinical rotations completed by students from a Canadian pharmacy program approved by ACP council may be deemed to be equivalent to Level 1 or Level 2 of the SPT program if the student registers in the SPT program and completes Level 3 within 1 year of graduation.
- Clinical rotations of at least 450 hours will be considered equivalent to Level 1. Before entering Level 2, graduates must complete the Jurisprudence Learning Module and pass the Ethics & Jurisprudence exam.
- Clinical rotations of at least 900 hours will be considered equivalent to Level 1 and Level 2. Before entering Level 3, graduates must complete the Jurisprudence Learning Module and pass the Ethics & Jurisprudence exam.
What success looks like
Main objective
The length of time in the program is secondary. Additional hours are often required to demonstrate all competencies.
To successfully complete each level, interns must
- demonstrate the entry-to-practice competencies,
- meet or exceed acceptable performance levels, and
- complete the minimum number of hours.
The preceptor assesses the intern’s knowledge, skills, and abilities; and only signs off on the intern's level once they have demonstrated competence and have met or exceeded the acceptable performance level.