Read these 7 myths about pharmacy school if you're thinking about applying.
7 Myths about pharmacy school
If you’re considering applying to pharmacy school, you’ve probably researched a little about the process. But not everything you read is fact.
We’re listing 7 myths that many people believe about pharmacy school that just aren’t true.
Myth #1 – Pharmacy school is all work and no fun.
We couldn’t disagree more! At Concordia, our 4-year curriculum design allows you to have breaks and study at a reasonable pace. This path lets you get involved through school with student organizations, research, and build relationships with faculty and future employers.
The perfect location
Concordia School of Pharmacy is in the perfect location to explore downtown Milwaukee, small towns, and Chicago for a long weekend. Summers are great for building a network and allowing for relaxation.
Building your professional network through friendships
These two Concordia grads became friends over their 4-year experience and ended up opening a pharmacy together. The School of Pharmacy has more than 11 student organizations you can join, a couple honor societies, and student fraternities. Student organization fairs and pharmacy events allow you to get connected with fellow students and build an enjoyable experience during your time in pharmacy school.
Myth #2 – You need a bachelor’s degree to apply.
You don’t need to have a bachelor’s degree to practice as a pharmacist. This means you may apply without one. Concordia wants to see that you have the pre-requisite courses fulfilled. For Concordia’s School of Pharmacy, you need 32 credits of science courses and 24 credits of supporting and general electives. Applicants typically apply to pharmacy school while completing their pre-requisite courses.
Myth #3 – Your PCAT outweighs the rest of your application
Concordia does not require the PCAT when submitting your application. The PCAT is optional when submitting your application, so you can include it if you choose. Why is this the case? Concordia views the PCAT as one piece of your overall application.
For example, if you took the PCAT and received a low score, it doesn’t mean you’re disqualified from attending pharmacy school. The PCAT score is one part of your application that the admissions committee reviews. There are other aspects in your application that can strengthen your application, such as references, motivation, grade trends, service, and communication skills.
Myth #4 – You need pharmacy experience to be admitted.
Although pharmacy experience is great to have, there are various types of opportunities to understand the profession in-depth. For example, you do not have to become a pharmacy technician to be admitted into pharmacy school. You can gain understanding of pharmacy by shadowing or interviewing a pharmacist, joining a student organization that is pharmacy/health care focused, or participate in any science related research.
Myth #5 – If you get rejected, there is no point in reapplying.
Don’t let the rejection letters discourage you from achieving your dream career in pharmacy. Instead, take the time to evaluate your application and review how you can make your application stronger than it was the last time you applied.
If you are ever curious as to why you were denied a seat for pharmacy school, please reach out to the admissions counselor or director of recruitment for information. Self-reflecting will give you direction on how you can strengthen your application in the next cycle.
Myth #6 – You should only pursue pharmacy if you want to work retail or in a hospital.
There is more to pharmacy than Hospital and retail. While hospital and retail pharmacy are important areas of pharmacy, they are not the only options. In fact, according to a recent resource published by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), there are 100+ career pathways that pharmacists can pursue. There is no limit to what you can do in the field of pharmacy.
Myth #7 – There are no jobs in pharmacy
In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected a slight decline in all pharmacists’ roles through 2029. However, a lot has shifted since then. The BLS also projected an increased demand of pharmacists in patient care settings such as hospitals and clinics. With many career pathways in pharmacy and an increased demand of pharmacists in different settings outside of retail, there is an abundance of opportunity in the field of pharmacy. Angie Mohamed, PharmD, shares about her experience working at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN. You can read about it in this blog.
Want more information?
If you’re curious about pharmacy school or you want more information about the application process, visit us here.
—
If this story has inspired you, why not explore how you can help further Concordia's mission through giving.