Doctorate of Pharmacy
Degree Overview
The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree is one of the required qualifications necessary to become a registered pharmacist. Students obtaining a PharmD degree will take courses in anatomy, biology and chemistry, among others, to develop an in-depth understanding of drugs and their affect on the body. Graduates of a PharmD program work in the health care industry, in conjunction with physicians and registered nurses, to provide drug therapy that improves patient’s quality of life. Generally, PharmD programs take 4 years to complete, and students can then specialize in a particular field for an additional 1-2 years if they wish.
Why a Online Pharm D
- A PharmD degree is required to become a pharmacist
- Pharmacists make a positive difference in peoples lives, dispersing medication, counseling patients on the safe use of prescription drugs, and advising patients on general health matters
- A PharmD degree prepares you to dispense medication and gives you the necessary knowledge to help prevent potentially dangerous drug interactions
- Graduates with PharmD degrees have a wide array of job opportunities, from hospitals to private pharmacies.
- Students with a PharmD degree have the potential for advancement, from pharmacist to pharmacy managers, hospital administrators or even researchers or corporate executives in pharmaceutical companies
- The median expected salary for a pharmacist in the United States is over $100,000
What You Need to Know About the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree
While specific program requirements vary, students are required to gain practical experience. Most programs require introductory practice and practice working with patients in the form of an internship and/or community service. A rotation period may also be required, in which students work with experienced doctors and pharmacists in a community pharmacy or hospital setting, dispensing drugs and engaging in pharmacy management activities. Depending on the program, these internships and rotations can take anywhere from 16 weeks to six months. In addition to the academic requirements set forth by the school programs, each state requires pharmacists to be licensed and to take a state-licensing exam.
Courses & Areas of Study
The specific requirements to obtain a PharmD degree differ depending on the specialty and the program you select. The courses listed below are classes you can expect to encounter in earning this degree. Please consult your specific course curriculum for a detailed listing of course requirements and credit hours.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Pharmaceutical Care
- Pathophysiology
Career Opportunities
Students who earn a PharmD degree have a wide range of options available within the health care field. Below is a list of potential positions a student with PharmD degree would be qualified for. This list is not comprehensive and should serve only as a guide to potential opportunities.
- Clinical pharmacist
- Staff pharmacist
- Regional pharmacy director
- Pharmacy Supervisor
- Hospital Pharmacist
- Hospital Administration
- Researcher
Admissions & Educational Requirements
While program requirements do vary, nearly all programs require a Bachelors degree and/or 2 years of post-secondary education. In addition many schools require a minimum number of credit hours in specific areas including anatomy, physiology, calculus, economics, biology, chemistry, and physics. Many programs require a minimum GPA and several letters of recommendation. Admissions committees may also consider previous work experience and volunteer experience. Finally, approximately 70% of PharmD programs require applicants to take the Pharmacy College Admissions Test. Since requirements vary by institution, you should consult with an admissions counselor and/or review the specific requirements of the school you wish to attend.
Accreditation
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education is the national accrediting agency for PharmD schools. A degree from an accredited school is required to take the state licensing exams necessary to work as a pharmacist.
Professional Organizations
There are a large number of professional pharmacist organizations that are a great resource and a wealth of information.
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy
www.aacp.org
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
www.ashp.org
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy
www.amcp.org
American Pharmacists Association
www.aphanet.org