How To Become A Pharmacist

By: Margaret Morgan

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Are you curious about how to become a pharmacist? If you choose to become a pharmacist, understand that this career takes a lot of hard work and several years to obtain. You must be up for the challenge. In the end, however, you will not only have a rewarding career, but the average income for a pharmacist is $88,000 a year.

Enroll in and pass all pre-pharmacy courses. To become a pharmacist and to be allowed to enroll in further degree programs, you must pass all pre-pharmacy courses. These classes include calculus, statistics, mammalian physiology and biochemistry, among others. The coursework consists of up to twelve courses and generally takes about two years to complete. Considering the need for advance degrees to become a pharmacist, it is best to attend a four-year college or university.
Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy. A Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy is required to enroll in upper degree programs. You must complete the entire degree program, including electives, core curricula and any other general education courses required to obtain this degree. It is also required that you have at least a B average overall. The better your grades, the more likely you can transfer all of your credits to advanced degree programs to become a pharmacist. In general, this degree program will take at least four years to complete.
Obtain a Doctorate of Science in Pharmacy. This is the last degree necessary to become a pharmacist. Obtaining this advanced degree will ensure you get the best opportunities in this field. With this degree, you can list your academic credits in place of experience in some cases. This will also ensure the highest pay grade in the field of pharmacy.
Take and pass the state license exam. Each state has its own requirements and fees for this license. Check with your state for these requirements and fees. In order to become a pharmacist, you must apply for and pass this exam. You can retake the exam if you fail the first time, but this may result in a longer wait to begin your career.
Apply for an internship. You can get an internship through any medical center or pharmacy as long as it has positions available. It is a competitive job market, and you should keep this in mind. Internships are paid positions. With an internship you have the opportunity for on-the-job training and will gain experience in the field.