How do I become a military pharmacist in the USA?

I'm interested in becoming a pharmacist in the military within the United States. What steps should I take after high school to pursue this career? Is a specific degree required, and how competitive are these positions?

To become a pharmacist in the U.S. military, there are several steps comprised of education, licenses, and commitment to service that you'll need to follow.

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree: First, you will need to obtain a bachelor's degree. While your bachelor's doesn't necessarily have to be in a science field, a degree in a science-related field can help prepare you for pharmacy school and fulfill prerequisite courses that pharmacy programs require.

2. Attend Pharmacy School: Following your undergraduate degree, you would attend pharmacy school to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. Pharmacy school typically takes 4 years to complete, and it combines coursework with hands-on practice of skills.

3. Pass NAPLEX: Once you've earned your Pharm.D. degree, you'll need to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX), which is a requirement to become a licensed pharmacist in the U.S.

4. Obtain a State License: After passing the NAPLEX, you'll still need to obtain a pharmacist license in the state you plan to practice, as all states mandate pharmacists to be licensed. State licensing might entail additional requirements, such as passing a law examination or undergoing a background check.

5. Enlist in the Military: Once you've obtained your license, you can enlist in the military. Different branches might have different application processes or requirements, so research these and reach out to a recruiter for more specific information. You can also apply for a military health professions scholarship program (HPSP), which covers the cost of tuition, fees, and other education costs for healthcare-related degree programs in exchange for a service commitment after graduation.

6. Complete Military Training: Depending on the branch of the military you join, you may also need to complete military training (for example, Commissioned Officer Training in the Air Force or Basic Officer Leader Course in the Army).

The competition for these roles can be significant, as there are limited slots in each branch every year. Keep in mind that being well-rounded is beneficial - strong academic performance, leadership experiences, and community service can all strengthen your application.

Through years of service, you can further specialize in fields such as nuclear pharmacy, infectious disease, or critical care, if you wish. Remember that the route to a military pharmacist involves a commitment to serving your country in a greater capacity than many other professions, and both the rewards and challenges can be unique.