There are two things that a potential pharmacy student must have: a love of math and science and good communication skills. Today pharmacists are practicing in many different areas including: clinical pharmacy, community, ambulatory care, nuclear pharmacy, and a whole host of other areas. Pharmacists are working hand in hand with physicians and other health care professionals in an effort to manage patients’ medications, counsel patients concerning their medication and manage patients’ disease states.

Earning a doctor of pharmacy degree (Pharm.D.) is a minimum of a six-year process, which consists of 2 to 4 years of pre-pharmacy coursework and 4 years of coursework and externship in the doctor of pharmacy program.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy, your first step is to enter a pre-pharmacy program. To enroll as a pre-pharmacy major at the University of Houston, visit the online Office of Admissions to learn about the enrollment process.

We recommend that students apply during the fall semester of their senior year, as university scholarships are awarded on a first come, first serve basis. Students may choose to complete their pre-pharmacy courses at the University of Houston or at another university or community college.

Preparation

To prepare oneself for college and later for the doctor of pharmacy program, it is extremely important that high school students do the following:

Take all of the math and science classes you can, including physics and calculus

Join a science/health professions club

Talk to a counselor about college requirements

Visit with a pharmacist

Develop good study skills

Visit college/university campuses—Come to Cougar Preview or Cougar Day!