How to become a Pharmacist

Being a pharmacist can prove to be one of the most rewarding careers in the medical field today. By playing a more direct and involved role in the health and well-being of their patients, pharmacists help to maintain a quaint small town feel within local retail store, clinic or hospital pharmacies. This is the type of personal care and service that the local town pharmacist is well respected for. Becoming a licensed pharmacist should actually begin in high school with classes geared towards science, math and foreign languages. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering a career as a pharmacist:

• While in college, concentrate on classes which will enhance your chances of gaining entry into a well established and accredited pharmacy school. These classes should include studies in biology, general life studies, mathematics, chemistry and foreign languages. Any advanced classes in these fields of study should be especially considered. Make sure that math and science classes are taken each year of your undergraduate school career. Even if not required for undergraduate completion, any classes geared towards the sciences, chemistry or mathematical studies should be pursued.

• Study for the Pharmacy College Admissions Test. This is a test which will tell any prospective pharmacy schools where your academic standards and abilities lie. It will represent your study habits, your understanding of the principles of pharmacology as well as providing a fast glimpse of your determination and dedication to becoming a licensed pharmacist.

• Research schools of pharmacy and choose which school best suits your preference or needs. Contact each of these schools to verify whether or not the PCAT is required for their particular admission. If so, go to the Pharmacy College Application Services website. PharmCAS is a convenient way for prospective pharmacy students to use one application for entry into participating schools of pharmacy.

• Upon graduation from pharmacy college, check for the nearest location of the North American Pharmacy Licensure Exam. Graduates in California may sit for that state’s own standard exam. Those who hold an accredited degree from a school of pharmacy may sit for the computer-based NAPLEX. Upon successful completion of the NAPLEX, you will have achieved licensure and may practice dispensary medicine as a Pharmacist.