2. What does a
pharmacist do?
Pharmacists dispense
prescription medications
to patients and offer
advice on their safe use.
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Pharmacist
3. How do I become a pharmacist?
Pharmacists must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree from an accredited
school. They must also be licensed, which requires passing two exams.
In order to do so students must attend a Doctor of Pharmacy program which
requires applicants to have taken postsecondary courses such as
chemistry, biology, and anatomy. Depending on the program you choose to
take, you will need either 2-3 years of undergraduate study or possibly even a
bachelor’s degree.
For most programs, applicants must also take the Pharmacy College Admissions
Test (PCAT).
At a Pharm. D program you will take courses in pharmacology and medical ethics
as well as supervised work experiences in different settings.
After completing a Pharm.D program(which usually takes 4 years), you must take
two exams to get your pharmacist license.
Pharmacist
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4. Will I get paid well if I become a pharmacist?
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Pharmacist
5. Work Environment
Pharmacies and drug stores 43%
Hospitals; state, local, and private 23%
Grocery stores 13%
Department stores 11%
Other general merchandise stores 10%
Pharmacist
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6. Work Hours
Most pharmacists work full time, although about 21% worked part time in 2010.
Since pharmacies are open at all hours, some pharmacists work nights and
weekends.
Pharmacist
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9. Why such a steep rise in the job outlook for
pharmacists?
This is because a significant number of pharmacists are expected to retire in
the coming decade, new pharmacists should expect good job prospects.
Pharmacist
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14. Do I have the qualities to become a
pharmacist?
Personality Hits Personality Misses
-Analytical -Lazy
-Detailed -Unorganized
-Focused -Uncooperative
Pharmacist
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