To become pharmacist, a professional degree, PharmD Doctor of Pharmacy
degree (standard starting entering students of year 2005).
The degree program should be accredited by the
American Council of Pharmaceutical Education.
A state licensing examination.
On-the-job training by working with a licensed pharmacist.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY:
Your high school program should include English, mathematics, and sciences, preferably with some laboratory experience.
Some schools require completion of specific subjects in high school such
as two years of mathematics, four years of English, one or two years of
laboratory science, and two or more years of history or government.
In addition, college entrance examinations and other aptitude test may be
required.
Good written and verbal communications skills are also important.
COLLEGE:
College requirements typically include two years of pre-pharmacy courses and four years of a professional program leading to a
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree.
Pre-pharmacy courses include biology, chemistry, calculus, English,
speech, and general education courses.
Admission in the professional phase of a pharmacy program is a
competitive process which typically includes among the requirements an
application form, personal interview, and letter of recommendation.
TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BECOMING PHARMACIST
There are certain admission criteria each schools have.
Space is limited at most institutions.
Acceptance into a pharmacy program is competitive
determined mainly by many factors.
At least
an 80 percent average is needed. Competition for a position is usually fierce.
More education might increase a person's chances of being accepted
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Because of the extensive education and training, a pharmacy graduate is able to pursue a
diverse range of career opportunities, including community pharmacy,
hospital pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical sales, military pharmacy,
clinical and laboratory research positions in federal, state, and local governments, professional association work, and many
other specialized areas. Additional training or advance degrees are usually necessary to teach in a college of pharmacy or to conduct research.