What's the typical pathway to become a pharmacist?

Hi everyone! I'm a high school junior, and I'm really tempted to pursue a career as a pharmacist. Can anyone here give me some advice on the steps I need to take in terms of education and experience? Like, what major should I choose in college, or which programs should I consider for pharmacy school? Thanks!

Hi there! It's great that you're considering a career in pharmacy. Here's a general outline of the typical pathway to become a pharmacist:

1. High School: Focus on strong academics, particularly in science and math courses. It would also be beneficial to get involved in extracurricular activities related to healthcare, such as volunteering at a local hospital or pharmacy.

2. Undergraduate Studies: You can choose from two main routes in your undergraduate education:

a. Complete a pre-pharmacy program, which typically consists of two years of prerequisite courses in subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics. After completing these prerequisites, you can directly apply to a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program.

b. Pursue a 4-year bachelor's degree in a science-related major, such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. Having a bachelor's degree might increase your chances of admission into a PharmD program, and it's also a good backup plan in case you decide to shift your career focus. Make sure to complete all of the required prerequisites for pharmacy school during your undergraduate studies.

3. Pharmacy School: Apply to and attend a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program, which typically takes four years to complete. You'll study advanced subjects like pharmacology and pharmacy law, and you'll also gain significant hands-on experience through internships and clinical rotations.

4. Licensing: After completing pharmacy school, you'll need to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and, in most states, the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE) to obtain your pharmacy license.

5. Optional Residency and/or Postgraduate Training: Some pharmacists choose to pursue a 1 to 2-year residency program or additional postgraduate training, to specialize in areas such as clinical pharmacy, nuclear pharmacy, or geriatrics. These programs can help you gain valuable experience and may lead to more specialized job opportunities in the field.

As you prepare for this pathway, you may want to research and network with professionals in the field, and potentially shadow a pharmacist to learn more about their day-to-day responsibilities. Good luck on your journey to becoming a pharmacist!