Ever since modern medicine evolved, pharmacists have played a significant role in transforming the pharmaceutical industry by improving our quality of life. Today, the pharmaceutical market is among the most flourishing in the world, and, according to Statista, the industry has doubled its revenue between 2007 ($726.4 Billion) and 2021 ($1.42 Trillion).
What do pharmacists do?
Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who specialise in medicine. They are majorly responsible for:
- Dispensing drugs to patients
- Educating patients about the medications and their potential side effects
- Taking care of the medicine supply chain
- Average salary of pharmacists in the UK and India
According to Glassdoor, the average base pay of a pharmacist in the UK is £43,368/year, while the number remains ₹238284/year in India.
Become a pharmacist
Learn more about the steps needed to become a pharmacist below. If you would like to begin your UK study application, contact SI-UK today for a free consultation.
How to Become a Pharmacist
1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree
Students should first complete a bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy to pursue a career in pharmacology. For better career prospects, they are advised to attend a BPharma programme top UK universities including Ulster University, Newcastle University and Cardiff University. Bachelor’s degree courses from these prestigious pharmacy institutes are a great way to fulfil your dream of success in the pharmacy sector.
2. Complete an MPharma Programme
Many students pursue a master’s degree in pharmacy before entering the job market. MPharma courses give students a broader perspective of the pharmaceutical industry and the experience required to excel in the field.
A student can choose not to study a master’s degree in pharmacy if he/she has completed BPharma. However, it becomes mandatory if the student has chosen a different science subject for a bachelor's degree.
3. Get Licensure Requirements
Those who want to work as pharmacists in the UK must register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which regulates pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and registered pharmacies in Great Britain. If you are an overseas graduate, there are three major criteria you need to fulfil to become a registered pharmacist:
- Complete an Overseas Pharmacists' Assessment Programme (OSPAP)
- 52 weeks of foundation training
- Pass the GPhC Registration Assessment
How Many Years to Become a Pharmacist?
Generally, accredited pharmacy degrees last for four years. However, many students choose to study five-year integrated courses that include one working year, ensuring students experience an amalgamation of theoretical and practical education.
How to Become a Hospital Pharmacist?
To work as a pharmacist in a hospital, you must get initial training from a government-approved hospital or school. The training requirements differ from country to country. Thus, you should keep yourself updated with the prerequisites beforehand.
Study Pharmacy in the UK
If you are interested in a career in pharmacy and need further assistance in choosing the right UK university to support your aspirations, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
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