Research universities with undergraduate majors in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Pre-Pharmacy.These programs may be very competitive, so a high grade point average in high school as well as high scores on the ACT and SAT are helpful. Bachelor's degrees in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Pre-Pharmacy are designed to prepare pharmacy students for material covered in the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Common subjects taught at the undergraduate level are mathematics, science, social science, chemistry, biology and physics.
Maintain high grades during your undergraduate career, as Doctor of Pharmacy programs are very competitive. Each pharmacy school has its own minimum requirements for acceptance into the program, so check with an advisor or school representative if you need help learning about the entry requirements.
Find universities or schools of pharmacy that offer the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. This type of degree typically takes four years to complete and focuses on the many aspects of being a pharmacist, including drug therapy, communication with patients, ethics, public health and business management. Many students will transfer to a Doctor of Pharmacy program after three or more years in a pre-pharmacy program, although this is not a requirement. Prior to applying for a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, however, students are required to have two years of pharmacy study.
Obtain a residency or fellowship after completing your Doctor of Pharmacy degree, if your school requires it. These programs typically take one to two years and provide further on-site training needed to become a pharmacist.