Pharmacist Career Guide

Pharmacy is perhaps one of the oldest branches of medical science. Its foundation rests on the creation of medical solutions prepared using herbs and naturally occurring ingredients. Owing to the recent technological advancements, it is it now a legitimate and independent field of science. A pharmacist makes medicines on the basis of available chemical formulae and helps doctors by providing medicine to patients according to prescriptions. Studying as a pharmacist will allow you to work in various medical settings. In order to do so, you must seek the right academic knowledge and training to successfully enter the industry.

Career Information

Pharmacy is one of the fastest growing occupations of the healthcare sector that requires a mixture of technical and organizational skills. This profession at present is in demand and its contribution to the healthcare industry cannot be overlooked. Thus the growth of this profession speaks for itself – it has indirectly brought a number of pharmaceutical and medicinal products to the table and has been a great boon to the industry. The main purpose is to make medications similar products available to patients.

Pharmacists are responsible to perform administrative duties, suggest prescriptions, provide recommendations on health care and keep comprehensive records.

Job Outlook

As suggested by the World Health Organizations Statistics, in 2011 more or less 2.6 million pharmacists were employed all over the world. Also the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics states that in 2011 272,320 people were employed in this area at the rate of 0.7%. Pharmacists mostly get employment in clinics, psychiatric hospitals, hospitals, and pharmacies. The job outlook mostly depends upon education, experience and the industry. State regulations also play an important role.

Salary

As recorded by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2011, the annual median salary for a pharmacist is $111,570.

Educational Requirements

It is important for candidates to be a graduate with a college degree in pharmacy. This degree could be attained from various online and campus-based accredited college.

Prior to applying for a master’s pharmacy program, candidates need to complete three years of college or hold a bachelor’s degree in the healthcare field. The American Council on Pharmaceutical Education provides accreditation to schools. To get enrolled in one of these colleges, candidates must complete pre-pharmacy courses. Besides that, passing the pharmacy college admissions test (PCAT) is also necessary. In addition, it is also important for the candidate to get a license and complete a one year internship. On passing the exam, candidates become eligible for a license through North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX).

Educational criteria may depend upon the institute and area you are resident of. In case you are unable to pursue conventional education, the option of online degree in pharmacy may also help a lot. This way you will not have to compromise on other activities while seeking quality education.

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