What Does a Career in Pharmacy Entail?
Are you interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy or pharmeceutical sciences? If you feel that you are well-suited for dispensing prescription medication, offering general health advice to patients to ensure optimal patient health outcomes, and are willing to work hard to succeed in the pharmaceutical industry or pharmacy practice, then this field may be a good choice. If you become a pharmacist professional, you'll be able to work in many different capacities. Some are employed by community practices, medical hospitals, health clinics, or veterinarian hospitals in pharmacy practice, while others find employment in the government, pharmacy school or a pharmacy program in higher education, or pharmaceutical research, drug discovery, and development for pharmaceutical companies. You might also find work elsewhere in pharmaceutical science, biomedical sciences, medication therapy management, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical development, patient counseling, and other arenas of the pharmacy profession. However, pharmacy students should be aware that some of these career options will require more than a certificate or associate degree. Indeed, aspiring pharmacy techs who hope to move into higher positions in the field of pharmaceutical sciences might even need to earn a doctor of pharmacy PhD to gain the clinical knowledge and experiential education necessary for some roles.
Components of a Successful Career in Pharmacy
A career as a pharmacist who spends their day trying to fill prescriptions and achieve optimal patient health outcomes through patient care in their pharmacy practice is not an ideal match for everyone. Licensed pharmacists and clinical pharmacists require a number of important skills in order to be successful, whether working for large pharmaceutical companies or at the local pharmacy. Clinical pharmacists work in both of these environments, as well as in a pharmacy school teaching pharmacy students. Whether pharmacy students plan to become pharmacists or pharmacist technicians, possessing the following qualities can help pharmacy students learn to thrive in this work setting as practicing pharmacists:
- Analytical thinking skills and a mind for evaluating patient care needs and the prescriber’s orders, especially if they work in a community pharmacy
- Proficiency with both written and verbal communication, especially when providing advice to patients and patient counseling based on their prescriptions
- Aptitude with computers in order to manage electronic health record systems and fill prescriptions, especially as an informatics pharmacist
- Attention to detail when filling and checking pharmacy prescription accuracy
- Ability to work well with others, either as a manager or a peer, depending on whether you are a clinical pharmacist or doctor of pharmacy
- Clinical knowledge to properly engage in patient counseling, which will be earned through regular and experiential education in pharmaceutical sciences and advanced pharmacy practice experiences
How to Earn an Online Degree in Pharmacy
Keep the following steps in mind as you begin pursuing a pharmacy career:
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Determine the level of education you need to reach your pharmacy career goals; do you need a bachelor's degree or a PharmD degree?
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Research institutions that offer a good degree program in the pharmaceutical sciences for pharmacy students
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Create, request, and organize the necessary application materials
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Submit applications to your preferred degree program(s)
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Enroll and sign up for courses that align with your interests: specific areas in the pharmaceutical industry, pharmacy law, veterinary pharmacy, biomedical sciences, drug discovery and drug research, community pharmacy, etc.
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Graduate from your college or university
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Apply for further education or professional employment
Difference Between a Pharmacist and Pharmacy Technician
Two of the most common pharmacy related jobs are pharmacist and pharmacy technician. These two positions are often confused by those outside the pharmaceutical industry, as professionals within them work closely with one another. It is important, however, for prospective pharmacy students to understand the differences when researching degree options.
Pharmacist
Clinical pharmacists are responsible for dispensing prescription medications to patients. They also offer general medical advice and guidance in relation to the medicines they provide in order to ensure optimal patient health outcomes through patient care and patient education. These professionals can work in many different settings, but many manage or own their own retail pharmacy. Others work in hospitals or clinics. Clinical pharmacists and other licensed pharmacists may also be trained to research, develop, market, and sell new drugs.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy techs work under the direct supervision of a pharmacist. They help to dispense prescription medications to patients but do not have the same authority. Their work must be checked and they cannot provide medical advice. Primarily, they measure medication amounts, package prescriptions, organize inventory, accept payment, take customer information, and answer phone calls.
Typical Requirements
The level of healthcare education you need will be dependent upon the type of pharmacy position you hope to attain. Programs are available at every academic level, from an associate degree to PharmD programs or a Doctor of Pharmacy. While pharmacy techs can generally find work straight out of high school, pharmacists require significantly more time as pharmacy students to understand biomedical sciences, medicinal chemistry, medication therapy management, and to gain clinical knowledge and how to affect positive pharmaceutical health outcomes.
Typical Certifications Needed
In most states, both pharmacists and pharmacy techs must be licensed. The requirements differ quite significantly for each:
Pharmacist
Every state requires that pharmacists are licensed before they can practice, but the specifics vary. After you earn a Doctor of Pharmacy from one of many PharmD programs, those who want to become a pharmacist must apply for licensure through their state, pass two examinations, and complete a pre-established number of quality internship hours based on the rules of the state board. You can't skip any of these steps. Additionally, pharmacists may choose to complete the following certificate options:
- Pharmacy-Based Immunization Delivery via the American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
- Certified Diabetes Educator via the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (NCBDE)
- Various Specialty Certifications via the Board of Pharmacy Specialists (BPS)
Pharmacy Technician
Most states also require that technicians become licensed, but the specifics vary. Requirements typically include the following:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Formal Education
- Exam
- Fees
- Continuing Education
- Criminal Background Check
Even if the state does not regulate pharmacy technician certifications, becoming certified through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is often preferred by employers.
Academic Standards
Most colleges and universities have similar academic standards for their students. These vary, but generally include both a minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement and a code of conduct.
GPAs are measured on a 4.0 scale. While institutions do not expect every student to maintain perfect grades, they do have certain academic expectations. If your GPA drops below a designated point, you may be placed on academic probation. Failure to increase your GPA while on probation can result in suspension.
Higher education institutions also expect students to behave appropriately in and out of the classroom. Cheating and plagiarism, for example, are not acceptable. You will need to review the college or university’s student handbook for specific rules and regulations.
Exam & Experience Needed
Whether or not you plan to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy will dictate your examination and experience requirements. If you do not intend to become a pharmacist but do plan to earn an undergraduate degree, you will be expected to complete a college admission test. Most institutions accept scores from both the ACT and SAT. Additionally, those who plan to enroll in a graduate degree program will likely need to take the GRE or GMAT, which are designed to prove they can handle the academics. Additionally, employers will be impressed by current students or graduates with time spent working or shadowing in a main hospital pharmacy, volunteering on-site in a healthcare setting, or working directly with customers in retail as staff or pharmacy practice support.
Pharmacist
Requirements for pharmacists vary per state. Generally, the minimum requirements for licensure include a Doctor of Pharmacy from PharmD programs and a certain number of clinical hours earned during a residency that you can complete in one to two years. You will also have to pass a competency examination, as well as a jurisprudence law examination on pharmacy law. The North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE) are standard in most states. You will need to research your state’s regulations regarding licensure for more specific experience and exam requirements.
Pharmacy Technician
Most states also have licensure regulations for pharmacy techs. Generally, the minimum requirements for licensure include an examination. You will need to research your state’s expectations regarding licensure for specific information regarding examination requirements.
Important Questions to Ask (FAQ)
How long does it take to earn a pharmacy bachelor’s degree online?
If you plan to earn your pharmacy bachelor’s degree online, you can expect to graduate in approximately four years. While this is standard, it is worth noting that many distance learning students do not enroll in their degree program full-time. These programs are ideal for individuals who are already employed or have personal responsibilities that require their time but still want to become a pharmacist. For this reason, it is not uncommon for part-time students to take five to eight years for completion of their pharmacy program.
How much does an online pharmacy bachelor’s degree cost?
Every college and university is different, but the College Board’s Trends in Higher Education Series reported that the average in-state tuition for attending a four-year public institution during the 2017-18 academic year was $9,970. Private schools were more expensive, however, with an average tuition of $35,260. You may also be responsible for a higher rate if you plan to attend a school in another state. Colleges and universities charge out-of-state students more.
Does the school have the major(s) you are considering?
It is important to realize that a pharmacy education is not offered at every college and university. Some institutions do not have the facilities or faculty required to maintain a successful degree program. Make sure you carefully review the listings of majors available at institutions to ensure the degree you want is offered. You should also consider reaching out to the department directly with any questions.
How many students graduate “on time,” or within four years?
Traditional, on-campus degrees typically take four years to complete. Some colleges and universities have a reputation, however, for requiring classes that are particularly difficult to pass or demand additional work that can cause graduation to be delayed. Make sure to verify the graduation rate and timeframe before enrolling, as well as the program’s employment statistics.
What kind of accreditation does the online pharmacy program hold? How it is regarded in the field?
When looking for a college, university, or pharmacy school that offers a pharmacy bachelor's degree option, it is imperative that you pay close attention to the institution’s accreditation status. Accrediting agencies affirm that a pharmacy college degree program or meets established qualifications and education standards so that graduates can become a pharmacist without issue. Attending a school that is not properly accredited may leave you unable to transfer credits, enroll in further education, or find employment.
The primary accrediting agency for a degree in pharmacy is the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). ACPE is recognized by both the United States Department of Education and the Council of Higher Education Accreditation. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) also accredits pharmacy technician training programs.
Regional accreditation agencies for pharmacy like the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) may be acceptable if you do not intend to pursue an advanced pharmacy career.
Professional Organizations
As a pharmacy student or professional, you will have access to many different organizations, associations, and societies. While some are all-encompassing, others cater to specific sub-fields or specialties. In all cases, these groups offer members a number of benefits, including access to resources, education, training, and idea-sharing. They also value networking and will host seminars and conventions throughout the year. Many provide certification opportunities, as well as discounts for events, services, and products. Some of the most prominent pharmacy organizations, associations, and societies include:
- Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP)
- American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS)
- American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP)
- American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP_
- American Heart Association (AHA)
- American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
- American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP)
- American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
- Board of Pharmacy Specialists (BPS)
- College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP)
- Hematology / Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA)
- National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS)
- National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA)
- Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group (PPAG)
- Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM)
- Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP)
ACCP
American College of Clinical Pharmacy
The American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) represents clinical pharmacy practitioners, scientists, educators, administrators, students, residents, and fellows from over 60 countries. It offers leadership, education, advocacy, and resources that allow professionals in the field to achieve excellence. ACCP members have access to networking opportunities, national meetings, board certification preparation, and professional development.
AAPS
American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) represents a community of scientists dedicated to the discovery, development, and manufacture of pharmaceutical products. IAHSS offers regular, graduate/undergraduate student, post-doctoral, and retired memberships. Members have access to reduced registration fees for the AAPS Annual Meeting and Exposition, complimentary access to scientific journals, upcoming and archived webinars, up-to-date information, networking opportunities, mentoring, and the awards, fellows, and travelships program.
AMCP
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy
The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) is intended for professionals involved in the practice of managed care pharmacy. AMCP strives to advance professional knowledge, improve the delivery of pharmacy benefits, and increase patient satisfaction. Members are provided with access to live national conferences, online learning programs, research in peer-reviewed literature, advocacy, and networking opportunities.