Do you know what degree you need to become a pharmacist?
What degree do you need to become a pharmacist?
Pharmacists are responsible for dispensing and monitoring the safe use of medications. This means that they get to work directly with patients to help them get well. Pharmacists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, the pharmaceutical industry, colleges, and the federal government, for example. According to the American Association of the Colleges of Pharmacy, about 45% of pharmacist work in an independent or retail chain community pharmacy, providing counseling to patients on the use of their medications. Helping people, diverse opportunities, and good salary are all reasons people choose to become a pharmacist.
If this career sounds appealing to you, find out more about what degree you need to become a pharmacist by reading below.
What degree is needed to become a pharmacist?
It may surprise you, but you actually don’t need a bachelor’s degree for pharmacy school. Pharmacy schools do have prerequisites, though. However, some students find value in earning a bachelor’s degree. Some popular bachelor’s degrees that will prepare you well for pharmacy include pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biochemistry, and any science-based degree.
Can you go to pharmacy school with a non-pharmacy bachelor’s?
Yes, you absolutely can go to pharmacy school, even if you didn’t study a pharmacy-related field. What you major in doesn’t matter. However, you must fulfill the prerequisite courses for pharmacy school listed here.
Advice for those considering pharmacy school
Nalee Vang is an admissions counselor for Concordia University Wisconsin’s School of Pharmacy. She said: “I highly encourage students to reach out to their desired pharmacy school’s admissions counselor. The admissions counselor will be able to answer any questions student may have about their pre-requisite courses and if they have been fulfilled. They will also be able to give additional information about the pharmacy school to students.”
Vang also would encourage you to schedule in-person visits with the pharmacy school. This will help you get a good feel of the campus’s atmosphere and the faculty members. Lastly, it’s important to get a feel for the culture of the campus.
Do you want to know more?
If you’re interested in learning about what life is like as a Concordia University Wisconsin School of Pharmacy student, visit us here.
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