How to Learn About Becoming a Pharmacist

Pharmacists do more than simply fill prescriptions and count pills. They offer advice about medications, and provide information about drug side effects and interactions. Pharmacists also share their expertise regarding over-the-counter treatments for minor illnesses, and explain doctors' orders. Information about becoming a pharmacist is readily available from several sources.

Instructions

How to Learn About Becoming a Pharmacist

1. Interview pharmacists in your area. Ask them to share practical ideas and strategies for admission to a pharmacy school, and finding work in the field.

2. Contact the admissions offices at pharmacy schools. Admissions staff provide information about acceptance requirements, such as recommended coursework and target grade point averages.

3. Complete the exercises in the Pathway Program offered by the American Pharmacists Association (see Additional Resources). This program describes the areas of pharmacy work, and helps to determine the one that is best-suited to your goals.

4. Contact the American Pharmacists Association or the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (see Additional Resources). These organizations offer publications about becoming a pharmacist, and also answer individual questions.

Resources

• Find a pharmacy school
• Contact the American Pharmacists Association
• Contact the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy