Today there is a large market for pharmacists and it is continuing to grow quite substantially. Essentially pharmacists distribute drugs to patients who need medication and advise patients and health practitioners when it comes to medication dosages, possible side effects, and drug interactions. If you are considering a career as a pharmacist, it is important that you know what it takes to get involved in this field and the options that you'll have once you do.
There is quite a bit of licensure and training needed in order to get started in pharmacist jobs. Currently a Doctor of Pharmacy degree must be earned at an accredited college of pharmacy. Before 1990 on a Bachelor's degree was required to practice pharmacy, but now pharmacists need a doctorate to become professionals in the field. In order to get into an accredited program applicants have to have at least two years of college, although most complete at least 3 to 4 years. Usually other requirements for entry include various natural sciences and math courses, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and social sciences and humanities as well.
While they are studying at colleges of pharmacy, students learn about patient communication, drug therapy, public health, and medication distribution. You can also go on to get a Ph.D. in pharmacy as well, which is a great idea for those who want to go on into research. Graduate studies include pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry, and administration of pharmacies.
License Requirements
Today in all of the states and all the U.S. territories, a license is required for pharmacists to be able to get pharmacist jobs. Applicants must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam. In order to be eligible for this license they must attend a college of pharmacy and earn their Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Some states also require the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam.
Pharmacist Earnings
There is a large potential to earn for those who become pharmacists. In 2006 most pharmacists were averaging about $94,000 a year. On the low end some made as little as $67,000 but others in the profession earned well over $100,000 annually. Usually it was those pharmacist jobs in department stores that paid the most, with the pharmacist jobs in medical hospitals paying a bit less.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for pharmacists is excellent, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, in 2008 alone it is estimated that the job market for pharmacists will increase by about 22%. In the next few years pharmacist jobs are expected to increase faster than most other jobs. Since the growth is going to be so rapid, those who are leaving this occupation must be replaced. The demand for pharmacists is also spurred by the increasing demand for prescription drugs, especially as the baby boomers get older and require more medical care and medication. Pharmacy technician and aid jobs are expected to grow in the next few years as well.