Pre-Pharmacy

 

Pharmacists are primarily responsible for drug therapy, drug monitoring, drug distribution, health promotion, and patient counseling. Pharmacists may also be involved in basic and clinical research, working in collaboration with other researchers, physicians, and pharmacists. They apply scientific and technical knowledge to evaluate drug therapy for each individual patient. Pharmacists use skills in personal relations when working with patients and other health professionals.

 

Academic Expectations

Specific admission requirements vary per pharmacy school. You should consult with schools of interest to determine their specific admission requirements.

Suggested academic preparation:

  • Undergraduate course work- Preparation for the study of pharmacy consists of two to three years of required undergraduate coursework or a bachelor's degree that incorporates pre-pharmacy requirements.
  • Competitive academic record- Admission to pharmacy school will be partially based on academic performance, particularly in science courses. An excellent overall and science GPA will be important in the application to pharmacy school.
  • Major in anything

 

We recommend you meet with an advisor once a semester to ensure you are progressing with the correct academic coursework.

Entrance Exams

Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)

The PCAT is an admission requirement for most pharmacy schools. The PCAT is a specialized exam that helps identify qualified pharmacy school applicants by measuring their general academic ability and scientific knowledge. The exam is divided into the following sections: Writing, Verbal Ability, Quantitative Ability, Biology, Chemistry, and Reading Comprehension. Check with a pre-professional advisor for information on the best time to take the exam. Since not all pharmacy schools require the PCAT, applicants should check with individual pharmacy school.

Application Information

Centralized Application Service- PHARMCAS 

Application to many pharmacy schools is made through PharmCAS. This standardized application permits a student to apply to multiple pharmacy schools and colleges with one application. The web-based application will include the applicant's personal statement, course summary, and a listing of extracurricular activities. Information on which schools participate in PharmCAS is available through the Pharmacy College Application Service. Supplemental (secondary) applications may also be required by each individual school after the PharmCAS application has been submitted. Schools that do not participate in PharmCAS accept applications directly to their program. You should consult the PharmCAS school directory for specific information on all pharmacy schools.

Professional Degrees

Doctor of Pharmacy (PHARM.D.)

To practice pharmacy in the U.S., a Pharm.D. degree is required. The professional Pharm.D. degree requires at least four academic years of professional study, usually after the completion of 2-4 years of undergraduate study. During pharmacy education, an academic based curriculum is combined with specific clinical experiences. How the professional schools integrate classroom content and clinical exposure will vary by school.

Explore This Career

 

 

 

Pre-Pharmacy Program

Pre-Pharmacy Advising Sheet