What To Study To Become A Pharmacist

If you have a genuine passion for helping people and an interest in all things chemistry, biology and technology, then the pharmacy career might be your calling. And the best thing about this career? The world will always need skilled professionals in this field.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that pharmacist employment rates will grow 5% between 2023 and 2033 — that equates to around 14,200 job openings annually. In addition to a positive job outlook, pursuing a pharmacy career offers various benefits, such as competitive pay and diverse career opportunities.

This field will require hard work and dedication from the start, but while pursuing a pharmacy career may be challenging, it is ultimately rewarding. However, what should you study to become a pharmacist? Are there specific licenses to consider? Which subjects are best for this field? We’ll answer that and more.

What Degrees Do You Need To Be A Pharmacist?

There are a few avenues you can explore to become a pharmacist, depending on where you want to start and your ultimate goal.

Associate Degree

An associate degree is a great place to start if you’re exploring the field or looking for a stepping stone. A great option to consider is Mount Wachusett Community College’s (MWCC’s) two-year Pharmacy Science Associate Degree. Students will receive an introduction to core pharmacy subjects alongside humanities and social sciences in this program.

From here, students can transfer to a four-year university to further their bachelor’s degree. Other students may use their associate degree to complete a pharmacy technician certificate to enter the workforce as soon as possible. This is the versatility of pursuing an associate degree — students have a wide range of education and career options while saving money on a pharmacy degree.

Bachelor’s Degree

Not all pharmacy schools require a bachelor’s degree. That said, many students choose to complete one to strengthen their application to a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program. However, many pharmacy schools do require you to complete certain prerequisite coursework. This is where either an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree can make your application more competitive and help meet those requirements.

Doctor Of Pharmacy

Here’s the big one — you’ll need to complete a three or four-year Pharm.D. to officially become a pharmacist in the United States. Ensure the program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). This program typically focuses on pharmacology, pharmacy law, sciences, patient care and hands-on clinical experience.

Some programs let you start after two years of undergrad, but having a bachelor’s degree can make your application more competitive. This is where an associate degree helps.

What Are The Best Undergraduate Degrees For Pharmacists?

Many pharmacy students choose to major in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related fields. However, the best undergraduate degree for a career in pharmacy isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision — students will have to balance their interests and what pharmacy schools are looking for. While many students gravitate toward science-heavy majors, others take a more creative or analytical route.

Here are some great options to consider:

1. Biology: Biology is a popular major for pre-pharmacy students. It gives you the foundation for understanding pharmacology and disease processes, which tie directly into how medications interact with the body at a molecular level.
2. Chemistry: This major is all about understanding the “what” and “why” behind medication formulations and dosages. Pharmacists rely on chemistry daily to understand drug interactions, side effects and how medications are absorbed by the body.
3. Mathematics: Math teaches you precision, which is exactly what’s needed when someone’s health depends on your calculations.
4. Statistics: Statistics can be a unique and valuable path. Pharmacists often need to interpret research studies and analyze data. A background in statistics gives you an edge in understanding clinical trials, drug efficacy studies and health care data trends.
5. English: Surprised? Don’t be. Pharmacy is also about helping people. Strong communication skills are just as important as scientific knowledge in a patient-facing career like pharmacy.

What Licenses Do Pharmacists Need?

After graduation, there are a few licenses aspiring pharmacists must obtain. But what tests do pharmacists have to take? Here’s what you need — each administered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP):

• The North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) tests your knowledge and skills to ensure you’re ready to practice pharmacy.
• The Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) evaluates your understanding of pharmacy law in the state where you plan to work.
• If you were educated outside the U.S., you’ll also need to pass the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination (FPGEE) as part of your certification.

Apart from a few exams, there are a few other prerequisites depending on the state you’re in. For instance, Massachusetts requires you to complete 1,500 intern hours for licensure.

Other Helpful Subjects And Courses

If you’re thinking about becoming a pharmacist, it’s never too early to start preparing. Even in high school, you can focus on specific subjects and extracurriculars that will lay a strong foundation. Here are a few ideas:

1. Advanced math: Pharmacy requires a good grasp of math. In high school, you should aim to take advanced math classes, like statistics and calculus. These will help you develop problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
2. Science: A strong science background is a must for aspiring pharmacists. You should prioritize biology, chemistry and physics, which are the foundations of pharmacology. If you can, take these subjects at an advanced level to give yourself an edge when you get to college.
3. Health sciences: Some high schools offer health science or anatomy and physiology courses. These subjects teach you how the human body works, and are a great introduction to the specific health-related knowledge you’ll need as a pharmacist.
4. Communication: Taking English, public speaking or creative writing can help you refine your written and verbal communication skills. It’s all about making sure you can explain complex medical information in a way that everyone can understand.
5. Business:  Are you interested in running a pharmacy one day or want to understand the business side of health care? Consider electives like business, accounting or health administration. These subjects can be really useful if you decide to work in a pharmacy management role.

Start Your Pharmacy Journey With MWCC

Are you ready to kick-start your career in pharmacy? MWCC’s Pharmacy Science Associate Degree offers a quality education at an affordable price. You can benefit from smaller class sizes, expert faculty and a curriculum designed to meet pharmacy school prerequisites. Plus, our strong partnerships with four-year institutions make transferring hassle-free, helping you save time and money on your path.

Apply to MWCC today and start building the future you deserve. Feel free to send a request if you need more information, and we’ll get back to you.