The ABCs of Pharmacy Education in the USA
April 2023
The study of Pharmacy involves the preparation, distribution, and assessment of drugs. Pharmacists are essential healthcare professionals and the demand for their services is growing rapidly. In the United States, Pharmacist positions are projected to be among the fastest-growing careers. For those considering studying abroad, the United States is a top destination for Pharmacy courses. Renowned institutions in the US offer exceptional infrastructure and facilities, allowing students to achieve exceptional outcomes.
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Benefits of pursuing Pharmacy in USA
With the pharmaceutical industry in the United States expanding, there is a growing demand for trained pharmacists.
The QS World University Rankings for 2023 reveals that a majority of the leading universities in the United States offering Master of Pharmacy degrees are ranked in the top 100 universities globally.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that healthcare industries will experience faster growth than the national average between 2018 and 2028.
By 2028, students who hold a pharmacy degree and work in the healthcare sector can anticipate quicker advancement opportunities. However, the profession of pharmacists is expected to experience only modest growth.
The United States is renowned for offering exceptional and top-tier academic education. International students seeking to study Pharmacy in the USA can expect access to cutting-edge research in the field.
Graduates with a Master of Pharmacy degree from the USA can find employment in diverse areas, including retail stores, hospitals, drug stores, pharmacies, food and beverage stores, and more.
Eligibility criteria to study Pharmacy in US
- To study Pharmacy at the BS or MS level in the United States, international students must meet certain admission criteria. Although the requirements vary among universities, we have provided below the general admission criteria for top US universities offering Pharmacy programs.
- To be eligible for a Bachelor of Pharmacy program in the United States, students must have completed high school or 12th grade with a background in core subjects such as chemistry, biology, pharmacy, or related fields, and obtained a minimum of 50% marks.
- To apply for a Master of Pharmacy program in the United States, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, pharmacy, chemical engineering, or a related field.
- To be considered for admission, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or its equivalent.
- Applicants are required to submit their GRE scores, with a minimum score of 150 in Verbal Reasoning and a preference for 150 in Quantitative Reasoning.
- Most pharmacy courses in USA colleges require TOEFL scores between 80-100. Additionally, an IELTS score between 6.5-7.0 is necessary for admission to an MBA in Pharmaceutical Management or a Master of Pharmacy program in the United States.
Top US Universities to pursue Pharmacy
- The University of California - San Francisco is a renowned public research university that offers exceptional Pharmacy programs, including PharmD and PhD degrees, with an emphasis on translational science and personalized medicine.
- The University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill provides a wide range of Pharmacy programs, including PharmD, PhD, and MS degrees, and is dedicated to advancing healthcare education, research, and practice.
- The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities is a leading public research university that offers top-tier Pharmacy programs, including PharmD, PhD, and MS degrees, with a focus on innovative drug discovery and delivery.
- The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor is a highly ranked public research university that offers outstanding Pharmacy programs, including PharmD, PhD, and MS degrees, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
- The University of Texas at Austin provides exceptional Pharmacy programs, including PharmD and PhD degrees, with an emphasis on clinical practice and patient-centered care.
Career prospects post US Pharmacy degree
Upon completing a pharmacy degree in the USA as an international student, a wide range of job opportunities can be pursued, including a clinical pharmacist, hospital pharmacist, retail pharmacist, pharmaceutical researcher, pharmacology professor, or pharmaceutical sales representative. Apart from these, there are other job roles in drug regulatory agencies, healthcare organizations, and the pharmaceutical industry. Some graduates may also opt for advanced degrees or specialized training to enhance their career prospects in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of courses will I study as a pharmacy student in the USA?
US pharmacy students study core courses like pharmacology, pharmaceutics, and drug development. Elective courses, including pharmaceutical marketing and advanced pharmacy practice, align with my career goals.
What kind of salary can I expect with a pharmacy degree in the USA?
Pharmacy degree holders in the USA can expect high salaries, with an average annual income of around $125,000. Pursuing advanced degrees or specialized training may also lead to higher earnings.
How long does it typically take to complete a pharmacy degree in the USA?
A pharmacy degree in the USA takes four years to complete, leading to a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. Some programs offer accelerated pathways or dual degree options, but they may require a more rigorous course load or higher academic standards.
For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International, and avail of our wide range of services for students on destinations like Universities in USA, study in USA, study in UK, study in Australia, study in Canada, study in New-Zealand, study in Singapore and many other countries.
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