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Post-baccalaureate degree: PharmD

pharmist explaining medication to patient

Pharmacists are health care professionals who dispense medications prescribed by physicians. They also counsel patients on proper drug use. Pharmacists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, retail businesses, long-term care facilities, internet pharmacies, and public health services.

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See also: Academic and Career Information for Pharmacy (PDF)

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Minimum Prerequisites for Admission

The following prerequisites must be completed prior to matriculation in a pharmacy program:

  • baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution recommended
  • each program has its own prerequisites: check specific school for prerequisites details
  • general course prerequisites:
    • general biology with lab, one year
    • biochemistry, one year
    • general chemistry with lab, one year
    • organic chemistry with lab, one year
    • general physics with lab, one year
    • English, one year
    • calculus, two courses
    • speech, two courses
    • human anatomy and physiology
    • microbiology with lab
    • micro or macroeconomics, one course

Test Needed

  • Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) - Online PCAT Registration
    • Test given in October or February.
    • Required by most schools.
    • Currently, the PCAT is not required by any California pharmacy program.

Professional Associations

Application Service

California Pharmacy Schools