A background in science can provide prospective pharmaceutical sales representatives with the knowledge necessary to talk about drugs and medications with medical professionals. The goal of a pharmaceutical sales rep is to convince a doctor why a certain drug is more beneficial to patients than others. Completing courses in biology and chemistry can help individuals understand the human body, and the benefits and side effects drugs may have on the physical and mental health of a patient.
Pharmaceutical sales is a business and future reps need to understand how to market and advertise drugs and medications. Business courses at the bachelor's degree level can teach students the principles and strategies behind promoting a product. It's also important for prospective pharmaceutical sales reps to track the success and failure of drugs at certain medical facilities and create business reports for executives at the corporate offices.
Because doctors are going from patient to patient and don't have time to take meetings, it's important for pharmaceuticals sales reps to communicate messages efficiently. A bachelor's degree program requires students to take speech and communication courses, where students can learn how to cover talking points and communicate a message effectively. In some instances, pharmaceutical sales reps may have to give presentations at conventions and seminars.
A bachelor's degree program may also offer students a chance to participate in an internship with a pharmaceutical company. An internship may offer students an opportunity to learn and observe a pharmaceutical sales rep. Interns can watch a rep communicate with medical professionals, organize itineraries, set up appointments, make contacts and monitor competition. Completing an internship may also give individuals an advantage over others when interviewing for jobs.