Key takeaways
- To become a pharmacist, you must have at least 3 years of pre-pharmacy study followed by a PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy) program.
- In addition to getting your degree, you’ll need to intern for at least 1,500 hours with a pharmacist.
- Pharmacy students are required to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) to become a pharmacist.
- A career in pharmacy is in demand with a projected job growth of 18% between 2024 and 2034.
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If you have a passion for helping others get well and want to work with patients, becoming a pharmacist may be right for you. It’s a great chance to provide patients with the medication they need, answer their questions, and help them feel better. Plus, it’s an in-demand career with high earning potential. But what do you need to do to get there?
Let’s explore what you need to know about how to become a pharmacist, so you can see if this career path is right for you.
What does a pharmacist do?
A pharmacist gives medications to patients, making sure that they receive the correct prescriptions and dosages. They also:
- Provide answers to questions about side effects
- Help manage chronic conditions
- Administer vaccinations
- Test blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other health markers
- Work with physicians to develop and adjust treatment plans for patients
In addition to these responsibilities, medication therapy management plays an important role in modern pharmaceutical care. Pharmacists review medications, identify potential issues, and optimize treatment plans to help improve outcomes and promote safe, effective medication use.
What degree do I need to become a pharmacist?
To become a pharmacist in the United States, most students complete at least three years of pre-pharmacy study. Many of these students study biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physics. Then, students will move on to earn their Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. This 3-4 year program teaches pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacy law. In the last year of the program, students engage in hands-on training through clinical rotations.
What are the prerequisites for admission to a PharmD program?
Most PharmD programs require students to earn a C or higher in the following courses:
- Chemistry (General and Organic Chemistry)
- Biology (General Biology, Microbiology, and Anatomy)
- Math (Calculus and/or Statistics)
- Physics (General Physics I and II)
- General Education (English, Social Sciences, Public Speaking, Psychology, etc.)
The application requirements typically include:
- Online PharmCAS Application
- 2.5 GPA or higher
- 2-3 letters of recommendation from pharmacists or professors
- Admissions interview
The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) is also required by some schools. Many students find the PharmCAS School Directory to be a helpful resource. It can help you keep track of deadlines and admission requirements and also compare programs.
What courses are included in a PharmD program?
A PharmD program often includes the following:
- Pharmacology: This is the study of drug mechanisms, interactions, and medicinal chemistry.
- Pharmacy law: This area covers state and federal regulations as well as legal responsibility.
- Clinical skills: Pharmacy students learn information about medications, how to assess patients, and how to perform lab tests.
- Clinical rotations: This part of the program gives students hands-on experience in pharmacies.
How can I do well in a PharmD program?
Doing well in your PharmD program takes time, dedication, and a good work ethic. Here are some tips that can help:
- Stay organized: Keep track of assignments, exam dates, and rotations.
- Study effectively: A consistent study schedule can help you learn a little each day so you won’t have to cram at the last minute.
- Look for mentors: A mentor can provide advice, emotional support, and potential career opportunities.
What is the licensing and certification process for becoming a pharmacist?
After earning your PharmD degree, the next step is completing an internship under a licensed pharmacist. Normally, this involves 1,500-1,740 hours, but this requirement varies by state. Some states may also require you to take their own law exam and have different rules about transferring your license.
After interning, you will need to complete the following exams:
- North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX): This exam will test your knowledge of general pharmacy information.
- Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE): This test covers state pharmacy laws.
Once you’ve passed these exams, you can apply for your license at the state Board of Pharmacy. Registering at the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy can help you through this process.
How can I gain experience?
Even if you haven’t earned your degree yet, there is a lot you can do to get more experience, including:
- Work or volunteer as a pharmacy assistant
- Shadow pharmacists
- Complete an internship
- Find opportunities as a pharmacy technician
How can I make connections in the pharmacy industry?
Networking and building connections with other pharmacists can help you make strides toward your dream career. You can attend conferences or consider joining the following organizations:
- American Pharmacy Association (APhA): This is the largest pharmacy organization in the United States.
- National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA): This organization represents independent pharmacists.
- State Pharmacy Associations: These organizations can help you network with professionals in your community.
Joining the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy can also help you find networking opportunities, meet leaders in this field, and make connections that may make a difference in your future.
What is the outlook for a career as a pharmacist?
Here are some fast facts about the outlook of becoming a pharmacist in the U.S.:
- The typical salary range for pharmacists is $86,000-$172,000.
- The employment of pharmacists is expected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034.
These statistics highlight how pharmacists are in demand and can make high earnings. You can also make a difference in the health and well-being of others.
Ready to see if a pharmacy career is right for you?
If you’re passionate about healthcare and helping patients, becoming a pharmacist may be right for you. The path to this career takes time and hard work. But with the tips we’ve covered, you can move forward knowing what steps to take.
Interested in checking out schools for pharmacists? Try College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool. It’s an easy way to explore colleges that fit your interests, goals, and budget.
