What Degree Is Needed to Become a Pharmacist for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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For those who are interested in becoming a pharmacist, taking up the necessary degree is the first step. Aspiring pharmacists need to attain a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree. The duration of the program highly depends on the pharmacist schooling that one chooses. There are many programs today that offer flexible options for students as well as accelerated programs.

Pharmacists are responsible for dispensing medications to patients according to the doctor’s prescriptions. As healthcare providers, they also educate patients on the proper intake of medicines and may counsel them on certain drugs that they may take for their illnesses. They typically work in pharmacies and drugstores, but they can also work in hospitals and other medical facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 323,500 pharmacists hired in 2021 (BLS, 2023).

This guide discusses the degree needed for one to become a pharmacist. We looked into the requirements needed in taking the degree and how long is schooling to be a pharmacist as well as the steps for acquiring a license. The job outlook for pharmacists is also presented to give you a better picture of what to expect in pursuing a career in pharmacy.

Pharmacist Schooling Table of Contents

• What skills do I need to be a pharmacist?
• What are the prerequisites for pharmacist schooling?
• What pharmacist degree do I need to take?
• How Do Clinical Rotations Enhance Pharmacy Education?
• Can an MBA Propel a Pharmacist’s Career Forward?
• How can supplementary certifications boost a pharmacist’s expertise?
• What factors should I consider when choosing a pharmacy program?
• Can Accelerated Administration Degrees Advance a Pharmacist’s Leadership Role?
• Emerging Trends and Opportunities in Pharmacy Education
• How Can Supplementary Certifications Enhance a Pharmacist’s Career?
• Job Prospects for Pharmacist Schooling Graduates
• What additional skills do pharmacists need to excel?
• Financial Aid and Scholarships for Pharmacy Students
• Can online courses strengthen traditional pharmacy education?

What skills do I need to be a pharmacist?

Taking medicine is a common way for people to receive treatment for minor ailments such as coughs, colds, headaches, and the like. In 2021, Americans spent about $574 billion dollars in medicines (Statista, 2022). However, receiving the wrong medicine or incorrect dosage can harm patients or even cause death. Pharmacists must be equipped with the right skills to ensure that the doctor’s prescription is followed correctly, and the correct medicine is given to the patient.

For those who aspire to become a pharmacist, these basic skills are important to have:

1. Attention to detail: Pharmacists need to check the prescription that customers bring when purchasing medications. They must check the doctor’s name and confirm the dosage required. They must also pay attention to dispensing medicines to ensure that the correct drug and dosage are given to the customer.
2. Dexterity: There are cases when pharmacists need to mix drugs themselves. Having dexterity helps in accurate measurement and processing.
3. Data entry: Pharmacists not only dispense medicines but also ensure that they are properly labeled and stocked. Data entry skills are essential to keep track of the medicine supply in their facility.
4. Communication skills: More often than not, customers turn to pharmacists and consult them on which medicine to buy for their ailments. Pharmacists need exceptional communication skills to be able to explain a drug’s function and possible side effects, as well as answer any questions from patients.

Pharmacists must also be knowledgeable in these three pharmaceutical sub-disciplines:

1. Pharmacology: This is the study of how drugs affect one’s body or how one responds to them (ASPET, n.d.). Having skills in this discipline helps pharmacists confirm the prescription of the doctor and guides patients in the proper intake of medicine.
2. Pharmaceutical Chemistry: For pharmacists to create new drugs or mix medications, they need knowledge of pharmaceutical chemistry. This discipline focuses on how drugs interact with each other and the way newly created medicine affects the body.
3. Pharmacognosy: This is the study of drugs that are made or derived from natural sources such as plants and animals (Orhan, 2014). Pharmacognosy is also related to traditional medicine, which includes the use of herbal medicines. Knowledge in this discipline is beneficial to pharmacists, especially for those who are interested in medicine from natural sources.

What are the prerequisites for pharmacist schooling?

Most healthcare degrees such as online BSN to DNP programs accept applicants that have attained bachelor’s degrees. The same goes for someone aspiring to be a speech language pathologist before they can apply for a speech language pathology master’s program. But in pharmacy schools, one can be accepted with a high school diploma (Jeroski, 2021). This does not mean, though, that it is easy to apply. Most pharmacist schooling programs have rigorous requirements that applicants need to complete before they can be accepted. Here are some of the common prerequisites that aspiring pharmacists need to take before applying to a pharmacy school:

1. Undergraduate study

Applicants must take and complete prerequisite courses specified in the pharmacist schooling program. These courses are typically related to science, such as biology, chemistry, calculus, and statistics. The number of courses varies and may affect how long is schooling for a pharmacist. Some schools may also require applicants to attain a certain GPA.

For those who do have associate’s or bachelor’s degrees, they may have an advantage and take fewer courses. Graduates of other related healthcare degrees such as online pharmacy technician programs may also spend less time on their prerequisite work. According to DataUSA, among the bachelor’s degree holders that pursue pharmacy careers, the majority of their majors are health (69,3%) and biology (7.82%) (2020).

2. Recommendation letters

Some pharmacist schooling programs may require at least two recommendation letters from professors or pharmacists. These letters should show the applicant’s interest in the degree and the skills that they have that will be beneficial in a pharmacy career.

3. Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)

This is a special test that is specifically designed for pharmacy degree applicants. This test is not part of pharmacy school requirements, but schools generally recommended it as it shows the applicant’s knowledge and potential in the field. However, the test will soon be retired and no longer be offered in the 2024-2025 admission cycle and beyond (Pearson, 2023).

What pharmacist degree do I need to take?

Unlike other roles in healthcare, such as health information management jobs that only require a bachelor’s degree, the required degree for pharmacist is a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, also known as Pharm.D. Pharmacist schooling focuses on health science and the safe use of medicines, with the goal of honing students’ knowledge of drug interactions and their effects on the body. Students are also prepared to be eligible in applying for licensure as a pharmacist in the US.

Pharm.D should not be confused with an RPh degree. RPh stands for registered pharmacist, which one attains after finishing their degree in pharmacy and fulfilling all state licensure requirements. All registered pharmacists must hold a Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

Some of the courses that are included in pharmacist schooling are the following:

1. Medicinal Chemistry: This focuses on drug action, particularly on the structure of drugs on a molecular level and their behavior (University of Michigan, n.d.). It lets students have a clear picture of the effect of drugs on patients.
2. Pharmaceutical Formulation: This is the study of drug formulation where various components are mixed to create medicine. Students also examine the different dosage forms of drugs and delivery methods to see the most effective way to provide a cure or relief.
3. Population Health: According to the CDC, population health focuses on the application of policies to resolve health issues prevalent in a population (2020). Pharmacists often interact with customers who raise their concerns about various drugs. Thus, having knowledge about pressing health-related issues affecting the population can let them provide credible and sound advice.
4. Dispensing and Medication Counseling: It is not enough for pharmacists to memorize drug names and their functions. It is also important for them to dispense medicines properly and be able to educate patients on their intake. This is especially crucial in this day and age where misinformation about certain drugs is rampant, and self-diagnosis is a common practice. In fact, one-third of Americans are found to self-diagnose using the internet (Hochberg, I., et.al, 2020). Pharmacists need to learn the right skills to effectively communicate medical information about drugs to patients and correct any misconceptions.
5. Pharmaceutical Calculation: This focuses on the process of calculating quantities of drug components and their concentrations. Pharmacists can mix their own drugs, and they use pharmaceutical calculations to ensure measurement accuracy without losing the drug’s efficacy.

How long does pharmacist training take?

It is possible that one’s pharmacist schooling can take six to eight years. The Pharm.D program usually takes four years for students to finish, but before that, they need to take prerequisite courses that may take two to four years. If the student has an existing bachelor’s degree related to healthcare such as a biology degree, this can affect how many years of schooling to be a pharmacist. They can take fewer prerequisite courses, depending on the pharmacy school’s requirements. Similar to NP accelerated programs, there are also accelerated pharmacist schooling programs that let students finish in three years.

Do I need certification or a license?

Pharmacists are required to have a license to practice anywhere in the US. After pharmacist schooling, graduates must take the National American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) administered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). This exam is just one part of the license requirements for pharmacists. Some states have different licensure requirements, so looking into these is important. The basic steps for taking the NAPLEX are the following:

1. Confirm eligibility based on state requirements: Check the board of pharmacy website of the state you wish to practice in. There may be additional requirements for eligibility.
2. Apply for eligibility: One can create an NABP profile and submit the requirements on the website. The NABP requires applicants to have finished a pharmacist schooling program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). Applicants should also pay the application fee of $100 per jurisdiction.
3. Purchase the exam: Applicants need to purchase the exam once they are granted eligibility. The exam fee for NAPLEX is $475. After payment, the applicant will receive their Authorization to Test (ATT) letter. They must ensure that the name indicated in the letter is correct and that they have proper identification that matches the name.
4. Schedule the exam: Applicants can take the NAPLEX at a Pearson Professional Center site located in 50 US states as well as US territories and the District of Columbia. One must set the schedule before the eligibility period ends, or else the applicant will need to restart the whole eligibility process and pay the fees. Applicants can schedule the exam online or by phone.
5. Take the NAPLEX: The NAPLEX has 255 questions and takes up to six hours. The exam scoring is pass or fail. Applicants can have up to five attempts to pass the exam.

Graduates can also take the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) in addition to the NAPLEX. You can take the MPJE if the state you plan to practice in requires this exam. The MPJE is also administered by the NABP and follows the same steps as the NAPLEX.

After passing the required exams, graduates can apply for state licensure for pharmacists. Depending on the state, they may need to acquire a certain number of hours of practical experience or undergo a criminal background check.

How Do Clinical Rotations Enhance Pharmacy Education?

Clinical rotations and internships are essential components that bridge the gap between academic concepts and the practical demands of pharmacy practice. They provide students with direct exposure to diverse healthcare settings, fostering competency in medication management, patient counseling, and interdisciplinary collaboration. These experiential learning environments equip future pharmacists with the ability to navigate clinical challenges while conforming to regulatory standards. For an in-depth perspective on the educational timeline, review how long does it take to become a pharmacist.

Can an MBA Propel a Pharmacist’s Career Forward?

Pharmacists seeking to extend their impact beyond clinical practice may benefit from advanced business and leadership training. An MBA equips pharmacists with strategic management skills, financial literacy, and operational insights essential for navigating complex healthcare environments. Graduates with dual expertise can access new roles in administration, policy development, and innovation, expanding their influence within the industry. This combination of clinical knowledge with business acumen opens doors to healthcare MBA jobs and paves the way for leadership opportunities that drive organizational growth and patient care excellence.

How can supplementary certifications boost a pharmacist’s expertise?

Supplementary certifications provide pharmacists with targeted skills that extend beyond traditional clinical knowledge. These credentials can fine-tune expertise in areas such as healthcare billing, digital record management, and regulatory compliance, thereby enhancing interdisciplinary communication and operational efficiency. For example, pursuing a medical coder certification online equips professionals with an understanding of medical billing processes, complementing their clinical expertise with critical administrative insights. This added specialization fosters a more versatile professional profile, supports career longevity amid evolving healthcare demands, and opens new avenues for integrating technology in patient care.

What factors should I consider when choosing a pharmacy program?

When selecting a pharmacy program, it is essential to assess the institution’s accreditation status, curriculum design, and post-graduation outcomes to ensure long-term career success. Evaluate whether the program provides a balanced mix of theoretical instruction and hands-on clinical experiences, as well as opportunities for internships and residencies. Cost, financial aid options, and overall affordability should be considered alongside modern learning formats, including flexibility offered by formats such as the online doctor of pharmacy program. Additionally, review faculty credentials, student support services, and industry partnerships that can enhance networking and employment prospects after graduation.

Can Accelerated Administration Degrees Advance a Pharmacist’s Leadership Role?

Pharmacists with clinical expertise can benefit from targeted administration training that complements their technical skills with strategic decision‐making and management practices. Integrating an accelerated administration degree into a pharmacy career supports swift career progression into leadership and operational roles within diverse healthcare settings. For professionals seeking to bridge clinical practice with administrative responsibilities efficiently, exploring the fastest health services administration programs online offers a focused pathway to develop the necessary competencies without lengthy program durations.

Emerging Trends and Opportunities in Pharmacy Education

The pharmacy field is rapidly evolving, with advancements in technology and healthcare systems creating new opportunities and challenges for aspiring pharmacists. One significant trend is the growing emphasis on telepharmacy, which allows pharmacists to consult patients virtually, expanding access to care for individuals in remote or underserved areas. This shift highlights the importance of developing expertise in digital tools and platforms, positioning pharmacists at the forefront of modern healthcare delivery.

Additionally, an increasing number of pharmacy programs are incorporating interdisciplinary training to prepare students for collaborative roles in healthcare teams. Integrating pharmacological expertise with skills in public health, patient advocacy, and leadership allows pharmacists to contribute more effectively to holistic patient care. Many respected institutions offer comprehensive online pharmacy programs for students interested in flexible and innovative educational paths. These programs provide rigorous academic preparation and enable learners to balance their studies with personal commitments, making them a viable option for diverse student demographics.

Moreover, the demand for specialized pharmacy services, such as pharmacogenomics and medication therapy management, is increasing. These areas focus on personalized medicine and optimizing patient outcomes, offering pharmacists an avenue to deepen their expertise and enhance their impact. Staying updated on these emerging trends can significantly benefit those considering or currently pursuing a career in pharmacy, ensuring they remain competitive in a dynamic professional landscape.

How Can Supplementary Certifications Enhance a Pharmacist’s Career?

Expanding one’s professional repertoire with targeted certifications can create distinct advantages in an increasingly competitive healthcare environment. Supplementary credentials not only refine clinical expertise but also foster agility in addressing emerging patient needs and administrative complexities. For example, short-term specialized training, such as medical assistant programs 6 weeks, can equip pharmacists with practical skills that bridge traditional pharmacy duties with broader patient support functions. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to enhanced decision-making, improved care coordination, and diversified roles within both clinical and administrative settings.

Job Prospects for Pharmacist Schooling Graduates

It is projected that there will be 13,600 openings every year for pharmacists. With a predicted 2% increase until 2031, the employment growth rate is relatively slower compared to other occupations (BLS, 2021). Most pharmacists work in retail drugstores, hospitals, and clinics.

The job market for pharmacists is seen as competitive, especially for higher-paying pharmacist jobs. Pharmacist schooling graduates can choose to undergo residency to gain experience and have an edge over other candidates. There are pharmacy schools that offer post-graduate training. Post-graduate Year One (PGY1) typically focuses on the general processes and duties of pharmacists, while Post-graduate Year Two (PGY2) lets residents choose a specialization and hone their skills in medication therapy and clinical leadership (ACCP, n.d.).

Having a pharmacist degree can also be used as a launchpad to other careers in healthcare. One can take a Masters in Nurse Administration or other related degrees to further gain expertise. And if they are interested in taking over management and administrative roles instead, they enroll in business degree programs and start their healthcare MBA careers.

How much do pharmacists make?

Pharmacists are on the higher end of the wage bracket, especially when compared to the wages of allied health professionals, such as a child life specialist salary. The annual median wage for pharmacists in 2021 was $128,570 (BLS, 2023). Pharmacists may have an increase in pay as they become more experienced in the field. A pharmacist with 5-9 years of experience may have an annual wage of $125,112 while those with more than 10 years of experience can have a salary of $128,440 (Payscale, 2023).

Among industries, ambulatory healthcare services pay pharmacists the most with an annual wage of $131,790 while hospitals provide a yearly salary of $130,280. Pharmacists often work long hours, especially for facilities that are open for 24 hours. They may also work on weekends and holidays (BLS, 2021).

What additional skills do pharmacists need to excel?

In addition to core technical skills, pharmacists benefit greatly from strong problem-solving abilities. These are essential for addressing challenges such as supply shortages, unexpected patient reactions to medications, or complex drug interactions. Pharmacists also need to stay updated on industry trends and regulations to ensure they provide accurate and safe advice to patients. A forward-thinking mindset, combined with critical thinking, helps pharmacists navigate evolving healthcare demands effectively.

Another vital skill for pharmacists is adaptability. With the increasing shift toward telepharmacy and the use of digital tools, pharmacists must embrace technology to manage remote consultations, electronic prescriptions, and virtual health records efficiently. This ability to adapt to new platforms not only enhances patient care but also opens up opportunities in diverse healthcare settings. For a broader discussion on the benefits of online learning in related fields, consider are online degrees worth it to understand how flexible education can complement a pharmacist’s career growth.

Lastly, cultural competency plays a crucial role in modern pharmacy practice. Pharmacists often serve diverse communities, requiring them to be sensitive to various cultural beliefs and practices related to medication and health. Developing interpersonal skills and understanding cultural nuances ensures better patient communication and improved trust. By addressing these additional skill sets, pharmacists can elevate their practice and meet the needs of an ever-changing healthcare landscape.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Pharmacy Students

Financing a pharmacy education can be challenging given the lengthy duration and costs associated with pharmacist schooling. However, there are numerous financial aid options and scholarships available to ease the burden for aspiring pharmacists.

Pharmacy students can explore federal financial aid programs such as grants, loans, and work-study opportunities provided through the Office of Federal Student Aid. Additionally, many pharmacy schools offer institutional scholarships based on academic performance, community involvement, or leadership potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

Third-party scholarships are another valuable resource. Organizations such as The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and local pharmacy foundations often provide scholarships specifically tailored to pharmacy students. For a list of healthcare-related certifications and programs that also provide competitive earning opportunities, check out this comprehensive guide on quick medical certifications.

Understanding the full range of financial aid options and being proactive in applying can make pharmacy school more accessible and manageable. Whether through loans, grants, or scholarships, these resources can help students focus on achieving their career goals without undue financial stress.

Can online courses strengthen traditional pharmacy education?

Integrating online supplemental courses with traditional pharmacy programs can offer practical benefits by enhancing curriculum flexibility and providing access to cutting-edge information. These digital learning modalities enable students and professionals to stay updated with evolving industry standards while balancing work and study. Moreover, specialized online modules can complement clinical training with focused content on emerging therapies and interdisciplinary practices, ultimately broadening a pharmacist’s expertise. For instance, exploring our article What medical degrees can you get online? can provide insights into additional educational opportunities that support career advancement without disrupting ongoing professional commitments.

Pursuing a Worthy Education

Whether it is a cold or a splitting headache, many people flock to pharmacies to buy the needed medicines to relieve their pain. Often, it is the pharmacists that face these customers to guide them in the correct intake of these drugs. Undergoing pharmacist schooling may take some time and considerable investment, but the knowledge and skills attained in training make it a worthy endeavor. With the passion to guide people to better health and wellness, pharmacists remain to have a valuable role in our healthcare system and a viable career option for aspiring professionals.

Key Insights

• Educational Path: Aspiring pharmacists must obtain a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree, which typically takes six to eight years, including prerequisite courses and the Pharm.D program itself.
• Skills Required: Essential skills for pharmacists include attention to detail, dexterity, data entry, and communication skills, along with knowledge in pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry, and pharmacognosy.
• Prerequisites: Prerequisites for pharmacy school include undergraduate courses in biology, chemistry, calculus, and statistics, recommendation letters, and possibly the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT), although the PCAT is being phased out.
• Licensure Requirements: Pharmacists must pass the National American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and may also need to pass the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) depending on state requirements. Practical experience and a criminal background check might also be required.
• Job Prospects and Salary: There is a predicted 2% growth in pharmacist jobs until 2031, with 13,600 job openings per year. Pharmacists have a high median annual wage of $128,570, with variations based on industry and experience.

FAQ

1. What degree do I need to become a pharmacist?

You need to obtain a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree to become a pharmacist. This program typically takes four years to complete after finishing the necessary prerequisite courses, which can take two to four years.

2. What are the prerequisite courses for pharmacy school?

Prerequisite courses for pharmacy school usually include biology, chemistry, calculus, and statistics. The exact requirements vary by program, and some schools may require a certain GPA for admission.

3. How long does it take to become a pharmacist?

Becoming a pharmacist typically takes six to eight years. This includes two to four years for prerequisite courses and four years for the Pharm.D program. Accelerated programs may allow students to complete their education in a shorter time frame.

4. What is the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)?

The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) is a standardized test designed for pharmacy school applicants to assess their knowledge and potential in the field. However, the PCAT will no longer be offered starting from the 2024-2025 admission cycle.

5. Do pharmacists need a license to practice?

Yes, pharmacists need a license to practice. They must pass the National American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and may need to pass the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) depending on the state. Additional state-specific requirements may include practical experience and a criminal background check.

6. What is the job outlook for pharmacists?

The job outlook for pharmacists is projected to grow by 2% until 2031, with approximately 13,600 job openings per year. Most pharmacists work in retail drugstores, hospitals, and clinics.

7. How much do pharmacists earn?

The median annual wage for pharmacists in 2021 was $128,570. Salaries can vary based on industry and experience, with higher wages in ambulatory healthcare services and hospitals.

8. What skills are important for a pharmacist to have?

Important skills for pharmacists include attention to detail, dexterity, data entry, and communication skills. Knowledge in pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry, and pharmacognosy is also essential.

9. What types of courses are included in a Pharm.D program?

Courses in a Pharm.D program include Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Formulation, Population Health, Dispensing and Medication Counseling, and Pharmaceutical Calculation. These courses focus on health science, drug interactions, and safe medication use.

10. What are the different career options for pharmacists?

Pharmacists can work in various settings, including retail drugstores, hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory healthcare services. They can also pursue specializations through post-graduate training programs like PGY1 and PGY2 or transition to administrative roles in healthcare.

References:

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3. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021). Pharmacists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacists.htm#tab-1
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7. Jeroski, K (2021 December 15). No Bachelor’s Degree Needed: What are Pharmacy School Prerequisites? Northeast Ohio University. https://blog.neomed.edu/no-bachelors-degree-needed-what-are-pharmacy-school-prerequisites
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10. Orhan, I.E. (2014 September 22). Pharmacognosy: Science of natural products in drug discovery. BioImpacts. https://doi.org/10.15171%2Fbi.2014.001
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