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Pharmacist Technician

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Pharmacist technicians assist pharmacists with dispensing medications and providing customer service. They handle prescriptions, manage inventory, and ensure accuracy.

Average Salary

₹2,50,000

Growth

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Satisfaction

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Pharmacist Technician

To become a Pharmacist Technician in India, certain educational qualifications and training are essential. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Minimum Education: A candidate must have completed their 10+2 education (Higher Secondary) with a science background (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics) from a recognized board.

  • Diploma/Bachelor's Degree:

    • Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm): A 2-year diploma course is a common entry point. It provides fundamental knowledge and skills required for assisting pharmacists.
    • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm): A 4-year undergraduate degree offers more in-depth knowledge and better career prospects.

  • Course Curriculum: The curriculum typically includes subjects like Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, and Pharmacy Practice.

  • Practical Training: Practical training or internships in hospitals, pharmacies, or pharmaceutical companies are crucial. This hands-on experience helps in understanding the practical aspects of dispensing medicines, inventory management, and patient counseling.

  • Registration: After completing the D.Pharm or B.Pharm, it is mandatory to register with the State Pharmacy Council to practice as a registered Pharmacist Technician.

  • Advanced Studies (Optional): For career advancement, one can pursue a Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm) or other specialized courses.

Key Skills Required

  • Attention to detail
  • Good communication skills
  • Basic computer knowledge
  • Understanding of medical terminology
  • Ability to work under supervision
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges for Pharmacy in India

Here are some of the top colleges in India for pursuing pharmacy courses, along with a brief description:

  • National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER):

    • Locations: Multiple locations including Mohali, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad.
    • Description: NIPERs are premier institutes for pharmaceutical education and research, offering B.Pharm, M.Pharm, and Ph.D. programs. Admission is highly competitive.

  • Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi:

    • Description: A well-reputed university offering comprehensive pharmacy programs with a strong emphasis on research and industry interaction.

  • Panjab University, Chandigarh:

    • Description: Known for its excellent faculty and research facilities, offering B.Pharm and M.Pharm programs.

  • Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai:

    • Description: A leading institute for chemical engineering and technology, with a strong pharmacy department offering B.Pharm, M.Pharm, and Ph.D. programs.

  • Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal:

    • Description: A constituent college of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, offering a wide range of pharmacy programs with a focus on practical training and research.

  • Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani:

    • Description: Renowned for its engineering and science programs, BITS Pilani also offers a strong B.Pharm program with a focus on innovation and research.

  • JSS College of Pharmacy:

    • Locations: Mysore and Ooty.
    • Description: Offers various pharmacy programs and is known for its experienced faculty and infrastructure.

  • PSG College of Pharmacy, Coimbatore:

    • Description: A well-regarded institution offering quality pharmacy education with a focus on research and development.

  • Annamalai University, Chidambaram:

    • Description: Offers pharmacy programs with a blend of traditional and modern approaches to pharmaceutical education.

  • Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara:

    • Description: A private university offering a comprehensive B.Pharm program with a focus on industry-oriented training and research.
Fees

Fee Structure for Pharmacy Courses in India

The fee structure for pharmacy courses in India varies widely depending on the type of institution (government, private, or deemed university), the course (D.Pharm, B.Pharm), and the location. Here’s a general overview:

  • Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm):

    • Government Colleges: ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹75,000 per year.

  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm):

    • Government Colleges: ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.
    • Deemed Universities: ₹75,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year.

  • Factors Influencing Fees:

    • Infrastructure and Facilities: Colleges with better infrastructure, laboratories, and research facilities tend to charge higher fees.
    • Faculty Expertise: Institutions with experienced and highly qualified faculty may have higher fees.
    • Location: Colleges in metropolitan cities often have higher fees compared to those in smaller towns.
    • Accreditation and Ranking: Colleges with higher accreditation (e.g., NAAC, PCI) and better rankings may charge more.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Hostel Fees: ₹30,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year (depending on the type of accommodation).
    • Examination Fees: ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per year.
    • Books and Study Materials: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per year.

  • Scholarships and Financial Aid:

    • Many government and private organizations offer scholarships to meritorious and needy students. Students should explore these options to reduce the financial burden.
Related Exams

To become a Pharmacist Technician in India, the primary pathway involves completing a Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) or a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm). Here’s a detailed look at the relevant exams and entrance procedures:

  • Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm):

    • Entrance Exams: Some states and institutions conduct their own entrance exams for D.Pharm programs. These exams typically assess knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
    • Direct Admission: Many private colleges offer direct admission based on marks obtained in the 10+2 examination.

  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm):

    • National Level Exams:
      • GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test): While primarily for M.Pharm admissions, a good GPAT score can sometimes provide an advantage in B.Pharm admissions in some institutes.
    • State Level Exams:
      • Various states conduct their own entrance exams for B.Pharm programs. Examples include:
        • MHT CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test)
        • UPSEE (Uttar Pradesh State Entrance Examination) (now known as CUET)
        • WBJEE (West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination)
    • University Level Exams:
      • Many universities conduct their own entrance exams for B.Pharm programs.
    • CUET (Common University Entrance Test):
      • Many central and state universities now accept CUET scores for admission to B.Pharm programs.

  • Exam Syllabus and Preparation:

    • The syllabus for these entrance exams generally covers Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Botany and Zoology), and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
    • Effective preparation involves a thorough understanding of the syllabus, solving previous years' question papers, and mock tests.
Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Stable job with consistent demand.
  2. Opportunity to help people with their health.
  3. Varied work environments (hospitals, pharmacies).
  4. Relatively short training period (D.Pharm).
  5. Potential for career advancement with further education.
  6. Good job security in the healthcare sector.
  7. Opportunity to learn about medicines and healthcare.
  8. Contributes to the healthcare system directly.

Cons

  1. Exposure to potentially hazardous substances.
  2. High level of accuracy required to avoid errors.
  3. Can be a repetitive job.
  4. May involve long hours and weekend shifts.
  5. Dealing with demanding or stressed patients.
  6. Limited scope for independent decision-making.
  7. Requires continuous learning to stay updated.
  8. Salary may be lower compared to pharmacists.