5 Points to Consider When Looking for a Pharmacy School

Pharmacy school can be one of the most enriching experiences in your life; there is much to learn related to the profession. Like selecting an undergraduate program of study, pharmacy schools have criteria that they use to select their prospective students. Doing your research early will ensure that you make the best decision for your future as a pharmacist, so keep the following things in mind when looking for a school.

What are the school’s requirements?

There are many different things pharmacy schools are looking for. Most schools are looking for much of the same thing, but check and make sure before you begin applying. PCAT test scores are extremely important, as are SAT scores, ACT scores, and GPA. Being involved in extracurricular activities and experience with pharmacy work as a technician can be helpful as well.

How long do you want to spend in pharmacy school?

If you are an undergrad, you may want to look into a six year program rather than an eight year program. Originally, pharmacy students went to college for four years then went on to four more years of pharmacy school. Some schools now offer six year programs, which can greatly cut down on time and tuition costs, ultimately getting you out and in the workforce as a pharmacist sooner rather than later.

Is ranking important to you?

If going to a top school is important to you, you should look into what schools are the absolute best as far as pharmacy is concerned. Although the information being disseminated should be virtually the same across the board, the quality of instruction and facilities can vary greatly from institution to institution. So, think carefully about what your priorities are and choose accordingly.

What will you be able to afford?

Like any other college or university, pharmacy school is not cheap. Chances are, after eight years of college (if you take the traditional route), you will more than likely be in some serious debt. Consider scholarships, loans, and grants, and make decisions with your financial future in mind. Successful pharmacists make good money, but large loans take a substantial amount of time and energy to pay off.


What are your post-graduation goals?

Like it or not, some schools are going to have a better reputation than others, so if you are looking to work at a specific place, research their hiring practices. Schools are also proud to share success stories of their alumni, so don’t be afraid to ask the right questions about job placement percentages and recruiting by major companies. Sometimes this decision can make a huge impact on your future.

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This post was contributed by Kelly Kilpatrick, who writes on the subject of the top ten pharmacy schools. She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24 at gmail dot com.