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Pharmacist

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

Pharmacists dispense medications, counsel patients, and ensure safe drug use. A rewarding healthcare career focused on improving patient outcomes and well-being.

Average Salary

₹3,00,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements to Become a Pharmacist

To pursue a career as a Pharmacist in India, a specific educational path must be followed. Here's a breakdown of the necessary steps:

  • 10+2 Education:
    • Complete your 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects. A good score in your board exams is crucial for securing admission to pharmacy colleges.
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm):
    • This is the primary undergraduate degree required to become a pharmacist. It is a four-year program.
    • Curriculum: The B.Pharm curriculum includes subjects like Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutics, and Pharmaceutical Analysis.
  • Entrance Exams:
    • Many pharmacy colleges conduct their own entrance exams or accept scores from national or state-level entrance exams.
    • GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test): This national-level exam is highly recommended if you plan to pursue a Master's degree in Pharmacy (M.Pharm).
  • Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm):
    • While not mandatory, a Master's degree can significantly enhance your career prospects. It allows you to specialize in areas like Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or Regulatory Affairs.
    • The M.Pharm program is typically two years long.
  • Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D):
    • This is a professional pharmacy doctorate degree of six years duration including 5 year academic study and 1 year internship or residency. Those who have completed B.Pharm can also pursue this course and it will be of 3 years duration including internship.
  • Internship:
    • Most pharmacy programs include a mandatory internship component, providing practical experience in a hospital, pharmacy, or pharmaceutical company.
  • Registration:
    • After completing your B.Pharm (or Pharm.D) and internship, you must register with the State Pharmacy Council to become a licensed pharmacist. This license allows you to practice as a registered pharmacist in India.

Securing the right education and license is the foundation for a successful career as a Pharmacist.

Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Pharmacy Colleges in India

Choosing the right college is crucial for a successful career in pharmacy. Here are some of the top pharmacy colleges in India:

  • National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER):
    • Located in various cities (e.g., Mohali, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad).
    • Considered the premier pharmacy institutes in India.
    • Offers M.S. (Pharm) and Ph.D. programs.
    • Admission through NIPER JEE.
  • Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi:
    • A well-reputed university with a strong pharmacy department.
    • Offers B.Pharm, M.Pharm, and Ph.D. programs.
    • Known for its research and academic excellence.
  • Panjab University, Chandigarh:
    • Offers B.Pharm and M.Pharm programs.
    • Has a long-standing history and a strong alumni network.
  • Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai:
    • A leading institute for chemical engineering and technology.
    • Offers B.Pharm, M.Pharm, and Ph.D. programs.
    • Focuses on research and innovation.
  • Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal:
    • A constituent college of Manipal Academy of Higher Education.
    • Offers a wide range of pharmacy programs.
    • Known for its modern infrastructure and industry collaborations.

When selecting a college, consider factors like faculty, infrastructure, research opportunities, placement records, and accreditation. Visiting the campus and talking to current students can also provide valuable insights.

Fees

The fees for pharmacy courses in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution (government, private), the level of the course (B.Pharm, M.Pharm), and the location. Here's a general overview:

  • B.Pharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy):
    • Government Colleges: ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.
  • M.Pharm (Master of Pharmacy):
    • Government Colleges: ₹15,000 to ₹60,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹75,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year.
  • Pharm.D (Doctor of Pharmacy):
    • Government Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹70,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹80,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year.

Factors Affecting Fees:

  • Infrastructure and Facilities: Colleges with better infrastructure and facilities may charge higher fees.
  • Faculty: Experienced and qualified faculty can also influence the fee structure.
  • Location: Colleges in metropolitan cities tend to have higher fees compared to those in smaller towns.
  • Accreditation: Colleges with accreditation from bodies like the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) may have different fee structures.

It's important to check the specific college's website or brochure for the most accurate and up-to-date fee information. Additionally, look for scholarships and financial aid options to help offset the costs.

Related Exams

Several entrance exams can help you get into pharmacy programs in India. Here are some key exams:

  • GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test):
    • A national-level exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
    • It is for admission to Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm) programs.
    • GPAT scores are accepted by most pharmacy colleges across India.
    • The exam assesses knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences.
  • NIPER JEE (National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Joint Entrance Exam):
    • For admission to NIPERs (premier pharmacy institutes in India).
    • Offers M.S. (Pharm) and Ph.D. programs.
    • Highly competitive and requires thorough preparation.
  • State-Level Entrance Exams:
    • Many states conduct their own entrance exams for admission to pharmacy colleges within the state.
    • Examples include WBJEE (West Bengal), MHT CET (Maharashtra), and UPSEE (Uttar Pradesh).
    • These exams usually cover Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  • University-Level Entrance Exams:
    • Some universities conduct their own entrance exams for admission to their pharmacy programs.
    • Check the specific university's website for details.

These exams evaluate candidates on their knowledge of science subjects and aptitude for pharmacy. Preparing well for these exams is crucial for securing admission to top pharmacy colleges.

Exam NameExam Date
Related Courses
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High demand for pharmacists in healthcare.
  2. Opportunity to help people and improve health.
  3. Diverse career paths in various settings.
  4. Potential for career advancement and specialization.
  5. Job security and stability are generally high.
  6. Respectable profession with societal value.
  7. Intellectually stimulating and challenging work.
  8. Opportunities for research and development.
  9. Good earning potential and benefits.
  10. Flexible work schedules in some settings.

Cons

  1. Long hours and weekend work may be required.
  2. High level of responsibility and accuracy needed.
  3. Dealing with sick or demanding patients.
  4. Exposure to potentially hazardous substances.
  5. Keeping up with constant changes in medicine.
  6. Stressful work environment in busy pharmacies.
  7. Strict regulations and compliance requirements.
  8. Risk of making errors with serious consequences.
  9. Emotional toll of dealing with health issues.
  10. Competition for jobs in certain locations.