Being a Pharmacist
- 1). Write to several pharmacy colleges and request information regarding entrance requirements. This should be done while you are still in high school. This gives you an idea of the types of courses to take during high school to prepare you for college and a career as a pharmacist.
- 2). Meet with a high school guidance counselor to ensure that you are taking the appropriate courses. Courses should include chemistry, mathematics, biology, physics, computer skills, liberal arts classes and people skill courses. Maintain a high grade in all the courses.
- 3). Sign up and take the necessary college entrance exams. Most colleges require scores from either the SAT or the ACT exam. Submit your application for admission to the college of your choosing.
- 4). Setup a two-year pre-pharmacy program once you have been accepted into a college. In addition to taking more courses in chemistry, mathematics and physics, plan to take courses in the social sciences and humanities. Most pharmacy colleges require the completion of two years at the undergraduate level.
- 5). Register to take the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT). Most four-year pharmacy colleges require this test in order to be considered for admission. Prepare for the PCAT by taking several practice tests.
- 6). Enroll in a four-year pharmacy college. The college must be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). Maintain a high grade point average (GPA). Obtain a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree by successfully completing the required courses.
- 7). Take the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) to become licensed. This exam tests your pharmacy knowledge and skills and is required by all U.S. states, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia. A minimum score of 75 is considered passing.
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