1. High School: A high school diploma or equivalent is the first requirement. Good grades, especially in science and math, are highly recommended.
2. College: You must earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Pharmacy or a related field. This is a four-year program *minimum*. Some schools offer six-year programs that combine undergraduate and professional education.
3. Pharmacy School: After completing your bachelor's degree, you need to apply to and be accepted into a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. This is a professional degree program, typically lasting four years.
4. Licensure: Upon graduation from pharmacy school, you must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and a state-specific jurisprudence examination to become a licensed pharmacist.
Therefore, trade schools are not involved in the path to becoming a pharmacist. It's high school, then college (leading to a professional degree), and finally licensure.