How to Become a Pharmacist

There are various universities and institutions in India and abroad offering undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes in pharmacy. The minimum qualification in India is diploma in pharmacy, but there are chances of the Pharmacy Council of India elevating it to BPharm level. So, it is advisable to have BPharm as the minimum qualification with elevation to MPharm and PhD level. For admission to Diploma in Pharmacy (DPharm) you have to pass 10+2 or equivalent examination with physics, chemistry, maths or biology. Candidates who have passed 10+2 with PCM or PCB can get admission in a four-year BPharma programme. At the Bachelor’s level, there is no specialisation. At the Masters level (MPharm) specialisation is available in pharmaceutics, pharmacognosy, pharmaceutical chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceutical engineering, etc. After an MPharm, candidates can go for a PhD programme in pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutical marketing & management. Main entrance exams for the admissions to pharmacy courses are AIEEE (for degree courses), GATE (PG) etc.

Payoff

A pharmacy professional into research joins as trainee research scientist, then goes on to become research scientist, team leader, group leader, manager, general manager, VP of a pharma company, etc. Remuneration in R&D starts at Rs 2 lakh-Rs 3 lakh a year at junior level that increases to around Rs 40-50 lakh a year as VP.

Skills

• Have to be very competent to handle R&D
• Thorough understanding of the applicable field is a must
• Updated with the new developments in the field
• Knowledge of computers and English a must
• Ability to put in hard work
• Strong logical thinking
• Strong analytical abilities
• Strong academic foundation

Important Facts

• You have to constantly keep yourself updated about the developments and scientific research taking place
• You need to read a lot otherwise the field is not good for you. You should know that you are affecting the lives of human beings positively and are helping them to stay healthy
• One has to put in a lot of hard work and be dedicated to the profession. There is no room for rest.