Hi everyone! I'm thinking about pursuing a PharmD degree and becoming a pharmacist. Can anyone walk me through the steps to get a PharmD degree and what I should be doing in high school to prepare for this career path? Thanks so much!
Hey there! It's fantastic that you're considering a career as a pharmacist and pursuing a PharmD degree. I'm happy to help you understand the steps and what you can do in high school to prepare for this path. Here's a general outline of the process:
Complete high school courses: To lay a strong foundation for a career in pharmacy, you should focus on excelling in science and math courses in high school. Biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus are particularly important. If possible, take AP courses in these subjects as well to show your dedication and strengthen your knowledge.
Undergraduate education: Enroll in a college or university that offers a pre-pharmacy track or strong science courses. Most PharmD programs require at least two years of undergraduate study. However, many students choose to complete a bachelor's degree with a major in a related field, like chemistry, biology, or pharmaceutical sciences.
Take the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT): To apply for a PharmD program, you must take the PCAT. This standardized test measures your aptitude for a pharmacy program, covering subjects such as biology, chemistry, math, and reading comprehension. Aim to take the PCAT during your undergraduate studies so that you're well-prepared for the application process.
Gain pharmacy-related experience: While not always required, gaining experience in a pharmacy setting (like volunteering, interning, or working as a pharmacy technician) can be extremely valuable. This experience will help you understand the day-to-day life of a pharmacist, make connections, and strengthen your application to a PharmD program.
Apply to PharmD programs: Research accredited pharmacy schools and prepare to submit applications. Make sure to meet each school's specific prerequisites, which typically include completing certain undergraduate courses and, in some cases, having pharmacy-related experience.
Complete a PharmD program: PharmD programs typically take 4 years to complete. They combine classroom education with experiential learning, which will give you hands-on experience in various pharmacy settings. During this time, you'll learn about drug therapy, pharmaceutical care, and patient counseling, among other topics.
Pass the NAPLEX and MPJE exams: Once you've completed your PharmD program, you must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE). These exams ensure that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills to practice as a pharmacist.
Obtain a state license: After passing the NAPLEX and MPJE exams, you'll need to apply for licensure in the state where you want to practice. Be aware that different states may have additional licensing requirements, so make sure to research specifics for the state you're interested in.
As you can see, it's a long path to becoming a pharmacist. As a high school student, it's wise to focus on maintaining strong grades, particularly in science and math courses. Volunteering at a local pharmacy or participating in science clubs and competitions can help demonstrate your interest in pharmacy and strengthen your college application. Good luck on your journey towards becoming a pharmacist!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.