What is the Basic Training for a Career in Pharmacy?

A visit to the pharmacy often follows a visit to the doctor. Pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy aides work together to complete the variety of tasks necessary to keep a pharmacy running. The educational requirements for these workers vary according to their responsibilities, as does their earning potential.

Pharmacist Education

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that a pharmacist must hold a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree and a pharmacy license. Before applying to a Pharm.D. program, a potential pharmacist must complete at least two years of college course work, including humanities and social sciences in addition to classes such as mathematics, biology and chemistry. The Pharm.D. program itself generally requires four years of study to complete. During this time, studies address topics such as drug therapy, communication with physicians and patients, public health, business management, and professional ethics. After earning a Pharm.D. degree, a prospective pharmacist must obtain a pharmacy license, which requires that he pass a series of examinations, typically the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam. Other requirements vary by state.

Pharmacy Technician Education

• While some states require pharmacy technicians to hold a high school diploma or its equivalent, no national standard exists for pharmacy technician education, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employers prefer applicants who have some formal training and certification. Community colleges, vocational schools, hospitals and the military all offer formal training for pharmacy technicians, which lasts six months to two years. During this time, pharmacy technicians learn terminology, record keeping, techniques, and law and ethics related to the practice of pharmacy. Those who wish to earn a certification must pass an examination and complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years.

Pharmacy Aide Education

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that pharmacy aides do not have to meet a national education standard. However, a high school diploma or its equivalent may make an applicant more attractive to an employer. Experience providing customer service, operating a cash register or using a computer also improves chances of employment. Once hired, pharmacy aides complete about three months of on-the-job training.

Responsibilities

• Pharmacists advise patients and health care practitioners about the use and side effects of medications and monitor patients to ensure the safe and effective use of drug therapy. Pharmacists may also be involved in the development and sale of new medications or in teaching at colleges and universities. Pharmacy technicians receive prescription requests and fill them, under the supervision of a pharmacist. Pharmacy aides answer phones, stock medications and operate the cash register.

Salary

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in May 2009, pharmacists earned a median annual income of $109,180. During this same time, pharmacy technicians earned a median of $28,070, and pharmacy aides earned a median of $20,800 per year.