subject: An Overview Of Pharmacy Schools [print this page] When an individual is considering the exciting and dynamic field of pharmacology, they will have a lot of planning and preparation to do before committing to a program. There is a great demand for Pharmacists throughout the US and many opportunities available in different areas of the healthcare industry. The field of pharmacy is a constantly evolving and advancing technology that requires an individual to continually learn and grow throughout their career. The person who excels in this field has a passion for helping people and an ability to adapt and be flexible. In order to be accepted in any of the pharmacy schools, you will need to meet the specific requirements of the school. Each school has different requirements for consideration to enter their pharmacy program.
There are not many pharmacy schools in the US. Many are supported by the government which are more affordable than going to a private pharmacy school. Overall about a fourth of the individuals who apply to the pharmacy programs are accepted. Entrance is very competitive and there are many considerations made when students are being selected for entry.
A Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) is similar to an MD or DDS. Some PharmDs' work in healthcare environments where they prescribe medication just like an MD. The PharmD has a greater knowledge of medications that an MD and many healthcare professionals include a PharmD in their panel of experts when they are creating treatment plans for patients.
Entry to a pharmacy program is highly competitive and you must be willing to commit a minimum of six years to the completion of the program. Most of the pharmacy schools require a Grade Point Average, GPA, of 3.5 out of 4.0. While some schools require that you have an undergraduate degree, other schools do not have this requirement, but rather have specific courses that must have been completed.
Another requirement before you can be considered for a program is to pass the PCAT with over a 70% score. Most people who are accepted into a pharmacy school program pass the Pharmacy College Admission Test with an 85% score. Once you have completed all of the requirements to be considered for admission, you may be called for an interview.
When you are being considered for admission to the pharmacy program, some schools will conduct an interview to ascertain whether or not you will be a good match. It will be important to take your letters of recommendation, proof of your coursework, and documentation that is relevant to your admittance. In most cases, the school will tell you what other documents you will need to bring to the interview. If you have completed work but have not received your final notification of completion, some schools will allow you to start the program anyway.
The first two years of your program will consist of Pre-requisite coursework. To complete this phase of the program in two years, you will need to take 15 units each semester, or be a full-time student. Following completion of this course work, you will enter the professional program which will last, on average, four years.
During the latter part of the four year professional program, you will work off-site at a pharmacy. Some schools arrange for your off-site practicum, while other schools require that you find a mentor on your own. Some students find that working through the school throughout their program is less stressful than taking time off of studying to find an internship on their own.
The work that is involved in completing the Doctor of Pharmacy degree requirements is detailed and requires careful planning and preparation to complete in the allotted time. Therefore, talking to a professional or advisor who has knowledge of the schools, their requirements, and their programs plans will be very helpful. Some schools have accelerated programs that will allow you to complete the program in fewer than six years. Other schools have programs that can be completed in ten years. Depending on your needs and requirements, the professional will help you to find the right pharmacy school and program for you.
