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Depending on the work setting you decide to choose your duties may differ, but as a pharmacist a typical workday consist of filling prescriptions, interacting with patients, give flu shots, overseeing pharmacy technicians, completing insurance forms, and recording patients records.

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You may have heard that being a pharmacist is a stable and well-paying job and wonder what's involved in getting a degree in pharmacy. Here's what to know about exactly what a pharmacist does, what kind of schooling is required, and some pros and cons of the profession.

A pharmacist ﻿﻿ is a medical professional who dispenses drugs to patients according to a prescription ordered by a physician or other clinician. Pharmacists have an in-depth knowledge of the chemistry of various drugs and how they react in humans, and also how drugs interact with each other. Pharmacists must accurately measure and package medicine, ensuring its dosage and safety to be administered properly to a patient.

While the pharmacist﻿﻿ does not typically select or prescribe the medication, he or she educates the patient on how to take the medication and what reactions or problems to be aware of.

Pharmacists﻿﻿ typically do the following:

Fill prescriptions, verifying instructions from physicians on the proper amounts of medication to give to patients

Check whether prescriptions will interact negatively with other drugs that a patient is taking or any medical conditions the patient has

Instruct patients on how and when to take prescribed medicines and inform them about potential side effects they may experience from taking the medicine

Give flu shots and, in most states, other vaccinations

Advise patients about general health topics, such as diet, exercise, managing stress, and on other issues, such as what equipment or supplies would be best to treat a health problem

Complete insurance forms and work with insurance companies to ensure that patients get the medicines they need

Oversee the work of pharmacy technicians and pharmacists in training (interns)

Keep records and do other administrative tasks

Teach other healthcare practitioners about proper medication therapies for patients

Pharmacists graduating from college today are required to have a PharmD or Doctor of Pharmacy degree.﻿﻿ College students can start a four-year pharmacy program after successfully completing two years of undergraduate coursework and earning a passing score on the PCAT (Pharmacy College Admission Test).

If a student knows early in his or her college career (or even by the end of high school) that they would like to become a pharmacist, one could graduate with a PharmD in about six years. These programs are called "0-6" programs, There are only seven such programs listed on the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) website as of 2018.﻿﻿

In addition to the 0-6 programs, there are also early assurance programs and some accelerated programs. Early assurance programs are for selected high school students who enroll and successfully complete the first two years of pre-professional study. They are then guaranteed admission to a four-year pharmacy program. The accelerated pharmacy schools confer a degree after three years instead of the usual four. There are 13 accelerated programs listed on the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) website as of 2018.﻿﻿

Many college students do not decide until later in college or after college to become a pharmacist; therefore, some pharmacists end up completing eight years of school.

Coursework in pharmacy and pre-pharmacy includes chemistry, physics, biology, anatomy, and physiology.

Additionally, PharmD students must complete a series of rotations in a variety of clinical and pharmaceutical settings. The length and quantity of rotations vary, but the average PharmD program requires seven to 10 rotations, each of which is four to six weeks in length.﻿﻿

Once licensed, pharmacists can choose from a variety of work settings and types of pharmacist jobs, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, corporations, long-term care facilities and more.﻿﻿ Where there is not much variation in salary from one setting to the other, the work schedule and duties vary in each position, and different roles may appeal to different types of personalities.

As with all professions, there are upsides and downsides to being a pharmacist, and before you pursue a PharmD, it can be helpful to know some of the pros and cons.﻿﻿

Demand is strong for this medical career. Therefore, pharmacists enjoy job security and stability, and availability of jobs in just about any location nationwide. A variety of options and work settings are available for pharmacists as well.

Being a pharmacist pays well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,﻿﻿ the average annual salary for pharmacists is $126,120, (or $60.63 per hour) as of 2019, the most recent data available as of 2018. Additionally, a signing bonus of $5,000-$15,000 may be offered upon accepting and starting a position. Signing bonuses help keep pharmacists locked into a job for up to three years.﻿﻿

As with nursing and some other high-demand medical careers, burnout can be an issue for some pharmacists.﻿﻿

While pharmacists earn a strong salary, the annual salary and job description doesn't change much over the course of a typical pharmacist's career. Once you become a pharmacist, most likely you will be doing the same thing 15 years from now for the same pay, unless you take active strides to change your career type or setting.﻿﻿

Pharmacists must stand on their feet all day and the work can be repetitive.

Finally, it's extremely important for pharmacists to avoid errors and maintain clean licensure. A single error in dispensing medication can have catastrophic results and damage one's career.﻿﻿

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Thinking of Becoming a Pharmacist? Here's How to Get a PharmD Degree

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You may have heard that being a pharmacist is a stable and well-paying job and wonder what's involved in getting a degree in pharmacy. Here's what to know about exactly what a pharmacist does, what kind of schooling is required, and some pros and cons of the profession.

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Pharmacist can make from $87,000 to $161,000, the average pharmacist making around $126,000. In Texas the average hourly wage is $60 and the annual wage is about $126,800. Pharmacist usually work full time, some including nights and weekends.

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Pharmacists : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer expertise in the safe use of prescriptions. They also may conduct health and wellness screenings, provide immunizations, oversee the medications given to patients, and provide advice on healthy lifestyles.

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As a pharmacist you will are almost always on your feet and standing so physical stamina is a needed skill. Many patients may have problems with medication or insurance so it is important that a pharmacist can critically think and solve the problems to come, which also means they need good communication skills with all the patients that they will interact with. And like many other jobs pharmacist need reading comprehension because they need to fully read and understand information given to them.

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Pharmacists dispense prescription medication along with key information, such as side effects, contraindications with other medicines, and a range of other concerns. They also walk customers through their physicians' dosage and usage instructions to ensure medications are safely and effectively consumed.

Pharmacist Duties & Responsibilities

Tasks pharmacists typically perform include:

Dispensing or supervising the dispensation of medications and related supplies, according to physicians' prescriptions

Reviewing prescriptions for accuracy

Checking for drug interactions

Compounding medications and preparing special solutions

Counseling patients regarding appropriate use of medications

Overseeing daily ordering, as well as automatic refills

Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to plan, monitor, review, and evaluate patient effectiveness

Recommending drug therapy changes when appropriate

Ensuring the pharmacy complies with all local, state, and federal regulations

Educating patients and staff on drug therapies

Pharmacist Salary

Median annual salary: $124,170 ($59.70/hour)

Top 10% annual salary: $159,410 ($76.64/hour)

Bottom 10% annual salary: $87,420 ($42.03/hour)

Education Requirements & Qualifications

Those interested in becoming a pharmacist must have the following education and certifications:

College degree: You must earn Doctor of Pharmacy degree, known as a "Pharm.D." from a pharmacy program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). Programs typically last six years, but those who have already completed two years of college may apply to a four-year pharmacy program. Most schools require applicants to take the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT).

Courses: Course curricula includes pharmaceutics and pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology (effects of drugs on the body), toxicology, and pharmacy administration.

Training: Following graduation from a Pharm.D. program, pharmacists seeking an advanced position, such as a clinical pharmacy or research job, may need to complete a one- to two-year residency. Pharmacists who choose to complete the two-year residency option receive additional training in a specialty area such as internal medicine or geriatric care.

Licensing: Each U.S. state licenses pharmacists and has its own set of requirements. All applicants must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX), administered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). Most states also require graduates to pass a pharmacy law test known as the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE). Also, pharmacists who administer vaccinations and immunizations need to be certified in most states.

Pharmacist Skills & Competencies

Those interested in becoming a pharmacist should possess the following skills:

Reading comprehension: The ability to understand written information.

Active listening: The ability to understand customers, medical staff, and coworkers.

Verbal communication: The ability to provide clear and concise instructions for administering medication to patients, caretakers, and other healthcare workers.

Critical thinking: The ability to solve problems and weigh the merits of different possible solutions.

Attention to detail: The ability to carry out tasks with granular precision.

Physical stamina: The ability to spend the majority of your shift standing up.

Compassion: The ability to provide friendly consultations, vaccinations, and service.

Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017, employment of pharmacists is expected to continue to grow 6% to 2026. This increase is partly due to the medical needs of aging baby boomers, increases in chronic diseases such as diabetes, and scientific advances in new medications.

Work Environment

Some pharmacists work for the government and the military, while others work for private companies. Pharmacists spend a great deal of time working indoors, standing on their feet.

Work Schedule

Most pharmacists work full-time, however, one in five may work part-time shifts. Because many pharmacies are open at all hours, some pharmacists work nights and weekends.

Comparing Similar Jobs

People interested in a career as a pharmacist should also consider the following career paths. Here's a list of similar jobs, along with their median annual salary:

How to Get the Job
Apply
Look at resources such as Indeed, Monster, and CareerBuilder for the latest job postings. These sites also provide other helpful resources such as resume and cover letter writing tips, as well as interview techniques.
Networking
Join organizations to meet other members and gain additional information. The American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) provides an extensive listing of key organizations that provide educational, networking, and career opportunities for members.

Description

Median Annual Wage (2016)

Minimum Required Education/Training

Pharmacy Technician
Helps pharmacists prepare prescription medications for customers

$30,920

6 Months to 2 Years of Formal Training or On-the-Job Training

Audiologist
Diagnoses hearing and balance problems

$75,980

Doctor of Audiology Degree

Fits eyeglasses and contact lenses based on optometrists' and ophthalmologists' prescriptions

$35,530

On-the-Job Training

Speech Pathologist
Provides therapy to people who have speech disorders

$74,680

Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology

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Pharmacist Job Description: Salary, Skills, & More

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Pharmacists dispense prescription medication along with key information, such as side effects, contraindications with other medicines, and a range of other concerns. They also walk customers through their physicians' dosage and usage instructions to ensure medications are safely and effectively consumed.

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Even though we mostly see pharmacist in a retail setting, a pharmacist's work setting can vary from retail pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens, to hospital pharmacy, to other healthcare facilities, some pharmacist even work for the government or the military.

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Pharmacists are medication experts and play a critical role in helping people get the best results from their medications. Pharmacists prepare and dispense prescriptions, ensure medicines and doses are correct, prevent harmful drug interactions, and counsel patients on the safe and appropriate use of their medications. They have specialized expertise about the composition of medicines, including their chemical, biological, and physical properties, as well as their manufacture and use. Other health care professionals rely on pharmacists to select and administer medications that offer the best results and quality of life for a particular patient. Pharmacists may also prepare personalized medications, participate in patient rounds at a hospital, reduce the spread of infections, conduct research or clinical trials, or focus on a specific patient population or disease state (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, asthma, HIV, and pain management). Pharmacists are also the most accessible health care professional, since most people in the U.S. live within 2 miles of a pharmacy! If this sounds interesting to you, then perhaps becoming a pharmacist - a trusted, caring, and knowledgeable health care professional - might be for you.

Working Conditions

Traditionally, pharmacists have primarily worked in community (retail) pharmacies, including those located in grocery and drug stores. However, the profession is rapidly changing and more pharmacists are working in a clinical role in hospitals, physician offices, and specialty clinics. Pharmacists can be found in emergency rooms, pediatric departments, oncology centers, cardiac care units, intensive care units, poison control centers, and long term care facilities (e.g., nursing homes). Some pharmacists work for the government and the military. In most settings, they spend much of the workday on their feet.

Most pharmacists work full time, although about 1 in 5 worked part time in 2016. Because many pharmacies are open at all hours, some pharmacists work nights and weekends.

Academic Requirements

In 2020, 144 colleges and schools of pharmacy were recognized by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Pharmacy programs grant Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degrees, which require at least six years of post-secondary study. Pharmacy graduates must pass a state board of pharmacy licensure examination to practice in the U.S.

The Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree program requires at least 2-years of specific preprofessional (undergraduate) coursework followed by 4-academic years (or 3-calendar years) of professional study. Pharmacy colleges and schools may accept students directly from high school for both the pre-pharmacy and pharmacy curriculum, or after completion of the college course prerequisites. The majority of students enter a pharmacy program with 3 years of college experience. College graduates who enroll in a pharmacy program must complete the full 4-academic years (or 3-calendar) years of professional study to earn the Pharm.D. degree.
The Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS) makes it easy to apply to multiple schools using a single application.

Students interested in laboratory or research experience can continue their education by completing a Master of Science or Ph.D. degree. Graduates usually go on to careers in research for a drug company or teaching at a university. In the 2019-2020 academic year, 84 colleges of pharmacy offered Master of Science and/or Ph.D. degree programs.

Other options for Pharm.D. graduates who are interested in further training include one- or two-year residency programs or fellowships. Pharmacy residencies are post-graduate training programs in pharmacy practice. Pharmacy fellowships are highly individualized programs designed to prepare participants to work in research laboratories. Some pharmacists who run their own pharmacies obtain a master's degree in business administration (MBA).

Licensed pharmacists may choose to become board certified as a way to demonstrate pharmacy expertise in a specialty area of practice: Ambulatory Care, Cardiology, Compounded Sterile Preparations, Critical Care, Geriatric, Infectious Diseases, Nuclear, Nutrition Support Oncology, Pediatric, Pharmacotherapy, and Psychiatric.

Learn More About a Career as a Pharmacist

Pharmacy is Right for Me can help you identify the pharmacy career option that is right for you.

Pharmacy is a diverse and rewarding career, with opportunities for patient care, scientific research and innovation. Learn more about the inspiring journeys of pharmacists who change lives.

Resources
The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy reviewed this career profile.

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Pharmacists are medication experts and play a critical role in helping people get the best results from their medications. Pharmacists prepare and dispense prescriptions, ensure medicines and doses are correct, prevent harmful drug interactions, and counsel patients on the safe and appropriate use of their medications.

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After high school there are two paths that can be taken in college, either taking both undergraduate and graduate or going straight to graduate. Once you finish college with your Pharm. D degree you will need to complete the post-doctoral training that will take from one to two years. Even when you are a pharmacist you will still need to continue your education by completing a about 15-30 hours of education before renewing their license.

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Search Pharmacy Degree Programs

What Does a Pharmacist Do?

Pharmacist Career Basics

Pharmacists are on the front lines of ensuring individuals receive proper drug and therapeutic treatments for health issues. Working in tandem with doctors, pharmaceutical companies, and the public, pharmacists are given great responsibility to ensure safe pharmacological practices. With that responsibility comes years of education to ensure they've gained the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the field. Whether coming straight from high school or already holding a postsecondary degree, there are numerous paths available to aspiring pharmacists who are ready to work hard, complete thousands of clinical hours, and pass a series of examinations.

Pharmacist Careers In-Depth

After a patient visits their doctor and receives a prescription for medicine or another approved remedy, pharmacists are tasked with filling those prescriptions. Although it may seem like a straight-forward exchange, pharmacists must use their extensive knowledge of drug dosage, regulation, allergens and chemical reactions for each and every individual who comes to them with a prescription. Public health, health promotion and disease prevention are also topics of paramount importance to pharmacists, and they work with assistants, technicians and the general public to promote greater health awareness. Pharmacists can be found in a variety of settings, ranging from drug stores and private pharmacies to hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Pharmacist Salaries & Job Growth

Pharmacist Salaries Across the US

The median salary for a pharmacist in 2016 topped $121,500, though those in advanced roles or with years of experience can expect to garner even higher wages. This is also true of pharmacists practicing in different states. Use the map below to learn about the 10th, 50th, and 90th percentile salaries for pharmacists throughout the country.

Pharmacist Job Growth

While roles for pharmacists are expected to grow by three percent - or 9,100 roles - between 2014 and 2024, these figures vary throughout the country. Use the chart below to see how roles for pharmacists are expected to grow in the areas where you may want to practice.

Select a State:

1.9% Average Annual Job Growth 205 Annual Job Openings

Steps to Becoming a Pharmacist

Complete Relevant Degree Programs

Pharmacists in training have two different paths they may follow to complete educational requirements. The first option involves completing undergraduate coursework before moving into a graduate program, while the second is a combined option that incorporates all coursework into one program. Both are reviewed in this section.

Undergraduate + Graduate Pre-pharmacy courses are offered as either two or four-year degrees, so students should already have an idea of which graduate program they will pursue before committing to an undergraduate program. Four-year degrees incorporate more general education and liberal arts classes, while two-year programs are focused on courses relevant to the field. To meet prerequisites for advanced study, students must take courses in general and organic chemistry; human anatomy and physiology; molecular and cellular biology; microbiology; statistics; calculus; and English. Some programs may require multiple semesters of these topics. Once completed, students apply for a four-year pharmacy doctoral program.

Graduate Combined degrees are offered in various forms and allow the student to complete all required coursework in a shorter time frame. Six and seven-year programs are most common, and award both a bachelor's and doctor of pharmacy degree upon graduation. These programs are well-suited to students with a resolute understanding of future career goals and those who want to finish their studies earlier. Both educational paths discussed in this section require students to pass the Pharmacy College Admissions Test before being admitted to a graduate program.

Pass Licensure Requirements

Licensing requirements for pharmacists are mandated at the state level, meaning graduates should check with their local board to learn about specific requirements. While some states may have requirements others don't, the majority include these components:

Graduate from a doctoral program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.

Pass three parts of the licensing examination series for pharmacists, including the North American Pharmacist Licensing Exam, the Multi-State Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam, and the Written and Practical exam.

The NAPLEX is comprised of 185 questions and is designed to test a candidate's knowledge of pharmacotherapy and therapeutic outcomes, preparing and distributing medication, and optimizing the health of their patients. Like other computerized exams, the NAPLEX is adaptive, meaning the test selects questions based on how the student is fairing on the exam. The fee to take this exam is $505, so students should feel well-prepared before scheduling a testing date. If you fail the NAPLEX, or one of the other required examinations, you may be able to apply to retake it. This usually entails an additional exam fee and written approval by a state or national pharmacy body. However, some states have a limit on the number of times you can retake a test.

The Multi-State Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam is focused on a student's knowledge of federal and state laws surrounding pharmaceutical practice. Participating states use this exam to ensure all pharmacists understand the legal ramifications of prescribing and distributing drugs. This exam costs $250.

The written and practical examination component is typically specific to the state. More information may be available from a local board of pharmacy.

Complete Post-Doctoral Training

Pharmacists who plan to work in a specialized field of pharmaceutics often complete a residency program lasting one to two years. Whether interested in psychopharmacology or pharmacoepidemiology, post-doctoral training provides new pharmacists with the specialized knowledge they'll need to enter these fields. This is also a good option for those who plan on conducting research.

Stay on Top of Continuing Education

As of 2016, all states require pharmacists to complete continuing education hours to maintain their license. Most require between 15 and 30 hours between each license renewal period, which is typically two years. Before undertaking any courses or training, pharmacists should review the individual requirements of their state. While some areas specify only that CEUs be taken from an approved provider, others require that they be approved by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy. States may also require specific courses depending on trends in the industry, including pharmacological law or mental health and pharmaceutics.

Preparing for a Pharmacist Career: Pharmacy Schools & Programs

Undergraduate Programs & Degrees

Pre-Pharmacy

Biology

Chemistry

Pharmacy School Admission Requirements

When entering a doctor of pharmacy - frequently called a PharmD - program, students must meet an assortment of requirements to be admitted. While some departments mandate that students complete a full undergraduate program, others only want to see that all pre-requisite classes have been completed satisfactorily. Check with prospective schools to learn about their preference on this topic.

Grades are a particularly important component, especially in classes directly related to pharmacology. Most schools require at least a 3.0 overall GPA but may have higher expectations for chemistry and biology classes.

As of 2016, 85 percent of all pharmacy programs also require students to successfully pass the Pharmacy College Admission Test. The examination is comprised of five sections, including:

Writing - 1 prompt

Biological Processes - 48 items

Chemical Processes - 48 items

Critical Reading - 48 items

Quantitative Reasoning - 48 items

Testers are given 175 minutes to complete the 192 multiple-choice questions and 30 minutes for the writing prompt. The majority of programs require students to score between the 40th and 50th percentiles.

Other components for admission include two to three letters of recommendation, a biographical sketch, and potentially an interview with departmental faculty.

Pharmacy School Courses & Requirements

Doctor of Pharmacy

Amount of time: Four years

Basic Requirements
Aside from coursework, students must complete close to 2,000 hours of clinical experience and maintain a certain GPA. Some programs require students to research and write a dissertation.

What makes the program different from others
Unlike hybrid or combined programs, the PharmD prepares students without prior postsecondary coursework for roles as general pharmacists.

Who this program is good for
Students who have completed undergraduate coursework in a related field and have now decided to focus their talents on a career as a pharmacist.

Bachelor's and Doctor of Pharmacy Hybrid Degree

Amount of time: Six to eight years

Basic Requirements
Students must complete at least two years of relevant undergraduate coursework within the program, including studies in chemistry, biology, anatomy, physiology, advanced math and English. Once this work is completed, students take the PCAT examination to qualify for the advanced portion of the combined degree. Upon graduation, students hold both a bachelor's degree and a PhD.

What makes the program different from others
Instead of completing coursework at different universities, the hybrid degree program allows students to settle into a program for the entirety of their academic career. It can also shorten the amount of time required to graduate.

Who this program is good for
The high-school graduate who knows without question that they want to pursue a combined degree in pharmacy.

Doctor of Pharmacy Combined Degrees

Amount of time: Six to eight years

Basic Requirements
Students must complete all of the requirements of a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in addition to the individual requirements of the second degree. These requirements may include a thesis or oral/written examinations.

Opportunities to combine degrees abound in the field of pharmaceutics, with options ranging from completing a Juris Doctor or MBA to a variety of master's degrees in topics like gerontology, public health and regulatory science.

Who this program is good for
The highly motivated student who wants to combine their knowledge of pharmacology with an additional academic discipline.

Common Doctor of Pharmacy Courses

Pharmacist Career Concentrations

Although those outside the field may not be aware of the diverse array of roles within the field of pharmaceutics, there are numerous paths and career areas a prospective pharmacist may elect to pursue. The following section highlights some of the fascinating areas of work.

Pharmacoepidemiology

Professionals in this field use their understanding of patterns within and causes of diseases and apply it to uncovering how drugs are used and how they affect health issues in humans. Most pharmacists in this specialization focus on research, with topics ranging from drug safety and effectiveness to understanding drug measurements and risk management.

Pharmacoeconomics

Pharmacoeconomists are tasked with creating studies to evaluate the clinical and economic components of the pharmaceutical industry. Their research frequently informs the work of pharmaceutical organizations and decision makers within health care, and they are well-valued within the field. Some of the topics these professionals may research include evaluating the economics of other therapies or alternative medicines outside of pharmaceutics, researching how much patients are willing to pay for drugs, and understanding the importance populations place on drugs that improve quality of life.

Gerontology

Individuals who wish to combine their knowledge of pharmacology with an understanding of the biological, psychological, and sociological effects of aging can find great fulfillment in this field. Numerous combined degree programs exist that allow students to study the intersection of the two areas and eventually pursue geriatric pharmaceutical practice.

Global Medicine

With a passion for providing care to underserved communities throughout the world, pharmacists with concentrated knowledge of global medicine are well-versed in how modern medicine can be used to help individuals in developing nations. Graduates of these programs learn about pharmacotherapy, medication safety, public health and ways of promoting health and discouraging disease in global health arenas.

Healthcare Decision Analysis

Pharmacists with an interest in the business side of the industry are able to concentrate their careers in healthcare decision analysis to better understand the inner workings. Typically offered as a dual degree program, graduates are equipped with not only a thorough knowledge of pharmaceutics, but also the economics and policies surrounding healthcare. Areas of work include drug access, coverage qualifiers, pricing structures and reimbursement policies.

COMPONENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL Pharmacist Career CAREER: SKILLS, CREDENTIALS, TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY

Recollection

Pharmacists put their knowledge on the line every single day of their careers, and remembering everything learned in pharmacy school is critical. Whether recalling generic vs. brand names, side effects, or possible drug interactions, the ability to remember these components each and every day is vital not only to their success, but to protecting the health of those whose prescriptions they fill.

Attention to Detail

Pharmacology allows little - if any - room for error, and being attuned to the smallest details is a nonnegotiable skill. Even the slightest difference in prescription strengths or recommended dosage can make a colossal difference. These skills are also important for research pharmacists when they are reporting findings that will influence a new drug coming on the market.

Drug Knowledge

Doctors prescribe drugs to their patients, but pharmacists are the final keepers in distributing them. Having a thorough understanding of drugs available, what they do, and how they work helps pharmacists ensure the right drugs - and the correct dosage of each - are given to patients. This is especially important when considering other factors such as allergies and prior medical histories.

Ability to Work with Others

Whether overseeing a pharmacy technician, discussing a treatment plan with a doctor, or advising someone who is picking up their prescription, pharmacists come in contact with a variety of individuals in their day-to-day work. Being able to properly answer questions while also maintaining focus on prescribing the proper medicines is a chief skill of the pharmacist.

Computer Literacy

Increasingly, the pharmaceutical industry is moving to more computerized techniques. While doctors still use their prescription pads for patients, electronic transmission of prescriptions is gaining widespread usage. Being able to research drug databases, maintain records, and receive prescriptions from doctors will become more and more important in the coming years.

Credentials

In addition to licensure requirements, pharmacists may also elect to pursue an advanced certificate in specialization areas or skill development. Postgraduate programs are becoming more popular as the field widens and practitioners seek to distinguish themselves. These certificates, which can typically be completed in one to two years, are available in areas ranging from pharmaceutical economics and public health to infectious diseases and psychiatric pharmacy.

Related Careers at a Glance

Pharmacy Schools & Pharmacist Career Resources

American Pharmacists Association

The APA offers members a variety of helpful tools and resources ranging from career finder applications to continuing education databases. Pharmacists can also find helpful research studies and publications to help advance their practice.

American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics

2,200 professionals are currently members of ASCPT, whose main mission is to advance the interests of pharmacists working in clinical and translational medicine arenas. The society hosts regular meetings, shares job postings, and offers the Knowledge Center for information about the latest research in the field.

Local Pharmacists' Associations

In addition to numerous national groups and organizations, most states have their own associations where pharmacists can get involved. A great example is the Tennessee Pharmacists Association

National Community of Pharmacists Associations

The NCPA has been existence since 1898; today is represents a variety of community pharmacists, including 22,000 owners of local pharmacies. Benefits to members include a newsroom, advocacy efforts, an annual conference, and other events.

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Pharmacy School & Pharmacist Careers | How to Become a Pharmacist

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Search Pharmacy Degree Programs Pharmacist Career Basics Pharmacists are on the front lines of ensuring individuals receive proper drug and therapeutic treatments for health issues. Working in tandem with doctors, pharmaceutical companies, and the public, pharmacists are given great responsibility to ensure safe pharmacological practices.

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As a pharmacy trainee at Walgreens Pharmacy, I have had the opportunity to experience the work setting and also a few of the tasks that a pharmacist would do like filling prescriptions and compounding, but also the not so fun parts like returns and expirations. This is useful because it made me realized that even with the parts that aren't as enjoyable, becoming a pharmacist is still a career I would like to pursue.

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Meet Scott Micek, PharmD, FCCP, BCPS!

He's a hospital pharmacist at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, a professor of pharmacy practice at St. Louis College of Pharmacy, and the director of STLCOP's Center for Health Outcomes Research and Education.

Dr. Micek agreed to take us behind-the-scenes to showcase a day in his life as a pharmacist. Read on for more about his career path, his day-to-day duties, and even some advice for pharmacy students like you!

Why pharmacy?

Before-and even immediately after-graduating from high school, I didn't consider pharmacy as a possible career option. At that time, I knew I really enjoyed my math and science classes, but what I really wanted to be was a football player.

So, I accepted a partial athletic scholarship to Mankato State University in Minnesota to play college football. After my first year there, my dad suggested that I develop a career plan that wasn't focused on football.

That's when I spoke to my college advisor, who was connected with some pharmacy students at the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy. I was lucky enough to speak to those students, and they helped me finalize my decision to pursue pharmacy school.

Once the decision was made, I applied to the University of Iowa (UI) College of Pharmacy. My acceptance letter arrived on the night of the spring football game at Mankato. That was when I knew had to make a choice; I chose to attend pharmacy school over playing football. That's when my pharmacy career pathway really began.

Growing up, I was fortunate to have a neighbor who owned his own independent compounding pharmacy. Once I got into pharmacy school, he asked me to come and work for him. It was a great opportunity because I was able to start getting firsthand pharmacy experience right away. At first, I worked primarily in his community pharmacy, but eventually, he gave me an additional opportunity to work in the home health pharmacy division of the independent pharmacy corporation he co-owned in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

While interning at the home health pharmacy, I had the opportunity to join pharmacists and nurses during home visits. The interactions between health care professionals and patients really inspired me and solidified my desire to choose pharmacy as a profession.

What type of pharmacist are you?

I'm a hospital pharmacist, and my specialty is intensive care medicine. I provide pharmacy services to patients within the intensive care units of the hospital as a member of a patient care team that includes physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, social workers, case workers, and others.

Being part of a team like this takes me back to my football days. This is mainly because I see similarities in how a patient care team functions like a sports team-everyone has a unique job to do. But, instead of trying to win a game, our goal is to work together to make a patient better.

My specific duties on the team include ensuring that the medications prescribed to patients are the correct ones, and confirming that they're being given in the correct doses at the proper times. When the patient care team is making care plans for patients, it's also my responsibility to make medication recommendations.

What makes your career path unique?

My career path is unique because, for 15 years, I worked full-time in a hospital intensive care unit serving patients and families as a hospital pharmacist. Now, I'm using my skills and experience to educate the next generation of pharmacists.

In 2013, I joined St. Louis College of Pharmacy as a faculty member. As a professor, I get to teach students in the classroom about pharmacotherapy, as it relates to critical care. I also co-coordinate and teach a course designed to show students how to evaluate, interpret, and apply research studies that guide the decisions health providers make when caring for patients.

In addition, I still spend 12-14 weeks a year working in a hospital. When I'm there, I always have the chance to work with pharmacy students who are on rotations. This is really rewarding because I get to see students put their knowledge into practice and watch as they interact directly with members of the patient care team, the patient, and the patients' families.

At St. Louis College of Pharmacy, I've also been able to pursue my passion for research. During my time at the UI College of Pharmacy, I worked as a research assistant in a basic science lab. That experience gave me the itch to do research.

Today, I consider myself a clinical researcher. As the director of the college's Center for Health Outcomes Research and Education, I'm part of a team that analyzes data from electronic health records as well as administrative claims databases. We build models and algorithms and then apply our findings at the bedside in the form of electronic clinical decision alerts or order sets designed to help us improve the outcomes of hospitalized patients. We have many students involved with us in this research. They are gaining important skills in database construction, as well as statistical data analysis.

My career path has been unique because I've been able to branch out into multiple directions. But, whether I'm in the hospital, teaching students in the classroom, or doing research, the patient has always remained the focus of my work.

What do you love most about your job?

I love the relationships I've built. Some of them have been short-term relationships with patients and families, others have been long-term relationships with members of various patient care teams I've worked on. I very much value the connections I've been able to form with my students over the years.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

On days when I'm working in the hospital, I get to work before six in the morning. I start the day by reviewing the medication regimens for my patients. After that, I meet with the entire patient care team and we make plans for our patients for the day.

Rounds start at 7:30 a.m. During rounds, I educate pharmacy students, pharmacy residents, and physicians who are in their residency training on the thought processes behind the patient medication decisions that have been made. This is also the time when I educate ICU patients and families about their medication regimens.

When I'm in my faculty role at St. Louis College of Pharmacy, each day is rarely the same. I can be found in the lecture hall, in a classroom, or in a meeting room teaching students. If I'm not teaching, you might find me writing a grant, constructing a database, analyzing data, drafting a manuscript, or putting together a research presentation.

Describe the most rewarding day of your career.

The most rewarding days are always the ones when my patients have good outcomes.

The other days that I enjoy most are those when I get to see my pharmacy students put their knowledge into practice. Seeing them interact directly with members of the patient care team, the patient, and the patients' families is very rewarding.

Today, I also get a lot of personal satisfaction from presenting my research to those who aren't familiar with what I do. It's nice to get feedback from different audiences.

Describe the most challenging day of your career.

The most challenging days are the ones when things don't go as expected. It's always hard when I make a medication recommendation that results in a patient having a bad outcome such as an adverse reaction.

As health care providers, we make decisions based on the best information we have, but patients aren't textbooks and outcomes we don't expect do happen. It's very challenging when you feel like you contributed to something that didn't go well, but these situations provide the opportunity to self-reflect and think about how to better deal with them next time.

This is also the case with students. As a professor, I advise a lot of students, but I don't always do or say the right thing. When I do make mistakes in my interactions with pharmacy students, I've found that the ability to show vulnerability goes a long way towards resolving the situation.

What most attracted you to pharmacy over other health care professions?

I was attracted to pharmacy because I knew I had career options. Thanks to my neighbor who was a pharmacist, I was able to explore different aspects of pharmacy very early on in my college career.

He was a great mentor who encouraged me to gain experiences outside of the community pharmacy setting in a home health pharmacy and the research lab. Those diverse experiences attracted me to pharmacy and solidified my interest in pursuing the profession.

What advice would you give a student entering pharmacy school?

First, I would encourage students to learn how to build relationships. Whether it's connecting with professors, or with older students who have been through pharmacy school before, it's so important to get involved and to get to know people. Visibility builds trust, and the trust students gain with other professionals and peers helps them to become more successful.

I also can't stress enough the importance of non-digital relationships. I always tell my students that I can help them so much more effectively with five to ten minutes of face time than I could by spending twenty minutes answering an email from them. That face-to-face contact really allows me to get to know students and show them I care.

While in school, I would also recommend that students utilize the resources that are there for them. There are always people and things out there that can help make our lives easier, but at times, we're all guilty of not taking advantage of them.

What do you wish someone told you (in high school or college) as it pertains to your career?

As a young college student, I was guided to explore all my opportunities, and I can't stress enough how much this has helped me during my career. I would tell students to never be afraid to try new things.

If they have been an intern at a community pharmacy, I'd advise them to try hospital pharmacy. If they don't know if they like research or not, I'd encourage them to find a project to work on and try it for a semester or two. There's always something new and exciting to explore, and it's important to take advantage of all the opportunities that are available to them while they can.

Also, I want future pharmacy students to understand that there are many sides to pharmacy. There's the business side, the computer science side, the ongoing communication with people, and more. Many things that students think have nothing to do with pharmacy, may be tied to pharmacy in one way or another.

What do you believe is the biggest misconception about the field of pharmacy?

Over the years, I've spent a lot of time trying to explain what I do for a living to my friends. Because they have never interacted with a pharmacist in a hospital, they assume that a hospital pharmacist's role is much like that of a community pharmacist-preparing and dispensing prescriptions.

What they don't understand is that there is much more involved in my role. My job is more heavily focused on having meaningful interactions with a large patient care team, patients, and the families of patients, as well as managing medication regimens for many patients.

As you can see, Dr. Micek's career as a hospital pharmacist is so much more than just prescribing medications. He's making people's lives better every day through patient care, research, and education.

If you're interested in learning more about careers like Dr. Micek's in hospital pharmacy or the many other career options available in the industry, visit our Career Paths page.

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A Day in the Life of a Hospital Pharmacist | Pharmacy for me

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Meet Scott Micek, PharmD, FCCP, BCPS! He's a hospital pharmacist at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, a professor of pharmacy practice at St. Louis College of Pharmacy, and the director of STLCOP's Center for Health Outcomes Research and Education. Dr. Micek agreed to take us behind-the-scenes to showcase a day in his life as a pharmacist.

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A few of the benefits you can get from being a pharmacist include medical, dental and vision coverage, retirement benefits, life and disability insurance, paid time off and employee discounts.

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Employee Benefits (Pharmacists, Technicians, Therapists, Radiologists)

Bay Area Hospital offers a carefully designed benefits package to help meet the needs of our talented team of professionals. We are committed to offering generous, affordable benefits to part-time and full-time employees.

These benefits include:

Medical, Dental, & Vision Coverage

Presciption Drug Coverage

Retirement Benefits

Life and Disability Insurance

Paid Time Off

Education Assistance

Employee Discounts

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•	medical insurance
•	retirement
•	benefits
•	life insurance 
•	paid time off
•	education 
•	health

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Employee Benefits (Pharmacists, Technicians, Therapists, Radiologists) Bay Area Hospital offers a carefully designed benefits package to help meet the needs of our talented team of professionals. We are committed to offering generous, affordable benefits to part-time and full-time employees.

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There are many test you must take before you can become a pharmacist. The first test that you must take is the PCAT, PCAT is the test taken to get into pharmacy school. Once you have finished college and are ready to become a pharmacist you must take two other test; the NAPEX, which test you pharmacy abilities, and Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam, which test you on pharmacy laws and the legal parts of pharmacy.

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There are three tests required when your career goal is to be a pharmacist. After obtaining your online bachelor's degree in pharmacy, or at least your required pre-requisite classes, then it is time to apply to pharmacy school.

The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) is specifically given to help identify which students are qualified to continue their education in the field of pharmacy. It scales the academic ability and your scientific knowledge to assure that you are ready to pursue pharmaceutical training. The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) endorses the PCAT as the preferred entrance test into pharmacy college.

The test itself is a computer-based standardized test that is generally 3½ to 4 hours long plus administrative time for instructions. You will get a break about mid-way through testing. The test includes approximately 232 multiple choice questions and one writing topic.

There are five topics or sub-tests within the PCAT. They are as follows:

The Writing portion presents a topic focusing on a world problem such as science or social issues, cultural or political considerations or health matters in which you will be asked to propose a solution within an original essay.

The Biological section addresses questions regarding general biology, anatomy and physiology, as well as, microbiology.

The Chemical Processes portion pertains to general chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry.

Critical Reading covers passages to examine and then questions to test your ability in comprehension, analysis and evaluation.

The section on Quantitative Reasoning is a sub-test that consists of a plethora of independent subject matter, mostly presented in word/problem solving format. Such subjects may include basic math, algebra, probability and statistics, pre-calculus and calculus.

After you have completed your online doctorate degree in pharmacy, you are now eligible to test for licensure to begin your career as a pharmacist. There are two tests that you will need to pass. They are the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE). (Actually, there are just a few states that do not require the MPJE, so, check with the state in which you intend to practice for requirements.)

The NAPLEX is designed to test your pharmacy abilities and competency in your quest to become a pharmacist. This licensure is required by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. The NAPLEX is a computer-generated exam consisting of approximately 250 questions with a total of six hours to complete. As of 2016, the exam fee is $575. The questions on this test are formatted as: select all that apply, sequencing, point and click and multiple choice; essay questions are not included. A tabulated score of 75 or higher is required for passing and licensure. If you fail, you may take the test again after at least 45 days. Also, you may take the test five times without special authorization from regulators.

The MPJE, also known as the Pharmacy Law Test, is also required, in most states, by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. It tests your knowledge of legal aspects of the pharmacy practice particularly regarding drug distribution, as well as the legalities of licensure, certification and registration. With no essay or writing topics, the exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions to be completed within two hours. Due to each state's regulations, if you intend to practice in more than one state, a test applicable to that specific state is required.

The three main areas of the MPJE testing involve 78% of questions regarding pharmacy practice, 17% related to licensure, registration, certification and operational requirements and 5% of the test involves regulatory structure and terms. A score of 75 is required to pass.

Make sure you spend ample time studying for these tests, for they can be challenging. Practice tests are available and are very helpful. Good luck! To help with you search if you are considering the online route, check out our Top Online Schools for PharmD programs!

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What kind of testing is required when becoming a Pharmacist?

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There are three tests required when your career goal is to be a pharmacist. After obtaining your online bachelor's degree in pharmacy, or at least your required pre-requisite classes, then it is time to apply to pharmacy school. The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) is specifically given to help identify which students are qualified to ...