Pharmacists prepare and dispense drugs. This includes establishing and maintaining systems to ensure patient and drug safety. In addition, pharmacists counsel patients by advising them on drug factors such as dosages, side effects, storage, limitations on activities, and interactions with foods, drinks, and other medications.
| Education |
|---|
| Complete a program in pharmacy leading to a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from a program accredited by an agency recognized by the Department |
| Experience |
| Completion of both introductory and advanced practice rotations in pharmacies |
| Examination |
| You must pass all three parts of the pharmacist licensing exam series within 5 years: North American Pharmacist Licensing Exam, Multi-State Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam, and Written and Practical (Compounding) Exam |
Visit the Office of the Professions for a listing of all options and requirements.
Please Note: the education requirements for NY pharmacy licensure are not the same as those mentioned in this video. In New York State, pathways to the Pharm.D degree vary but require at least two years of undergraduate study followed by professional study of 3 or 4 years.
Salary and Projected Growth
- Median salary: $126,120 in the U.S., $126,380 in NY
- Salary range: $91,330-$139,040
- Projected growth: average, below average in NY
Where Could I Work?
- Community pharmacies
- Hospitals
- Mail-order pharmacies
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Research–government and other organizations
Your Interests and Abilities
- Preparation in the basic sciences; pharmaceutical sciences; biomedical sciences; and clinical sciences
- Pharmacy law
Professional Skills
- Concern for others
- Attention to detail
- Integrity
- Dependability
- Communication
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a pharmacist about what they do and how they got started!