The majority of pharmacists work in a community setting, for example, at a drugstore, or in a health care facility, such as a hospital, nursing home, or mental health institute. These pharmacists not only dispense medications, but also counsel members of the public and advise physicians as to suitable courses of medication for their patients. However, more and more of those who become pharmacists these days are pursuing non-traditional types of pharmacy work. Some are involved in research for pharmaceutical manufacturers, formulating new drugs and testing their effects. Others take up positions in sales or marketing, advising clients on the effectiveness, and possible side effects of drugs.
Programs offered at colleges of pharmacy will teach you about becoming a pharmacist and about related topics too, such as drug therapy. You will also learn how to communicate with patients, and health care providers, about drug and therapy information. Classes on professional ethics, concepts of public health, and medication distribution systems will be included too. In addition to receiving classroom instruction, you will spend about a quarter of your time in a variety of practical situations, under the supervision of licensed pharmacists.
To be admitted to a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) course, you are required to have completed at least 2 years of post-secondary study, however, the majority applicants have completed 3 or more years. Other requirements usually include courses in natural sciences (such as biology and chemistry), and mathematics. In addition to academic requirements, you should also have a desire to help others and good interpersonal skills.
On completion of the Doctor of Pharmacy program, and having acquired a pharmacist license, job prospects are excellent. The average starting salary is approximately 90 thousand dollars a year, with overtime readily available if wanted.
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