#GMTH

Clinical Pharmacist

What is it like to become a Pharmacist?

Helping people live longer and healthier lives depends on the safe use of medicines and excellent healthcare advice. Pharmacists’ unique expertise and knowledge makes them essential members of the healthcare team.

You’ll use your expert knowledge of medicines and health to make a positive difference to people’s lives and wellbeing. You’ll provide care in a range of settings, often at the heart of local communities. You’ll also have a role in preventing people from getting sick by helping them live healthier lifestyles and making sure they get the most from their medicines. 

  • You need to complete a five-year programme of academic and practice-based teaching 
  • In your first four years, you will study for a Master’s degree in pharmacy (MPharm) at university  
  • This is followed by a one year paid work placement called a foundation training year
  • After your foundation year, you can register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and legally practise as a pharmacist

There are no set university entry requirements but generally you’ll need:  

  • three A-levels or equivalent in chemistry and a second science or maths, typically offers range from AAB to BBB 
  • pharmacy degrees with a foundation year may have lower grade requirements 
  • GCSEs are considered alongside A-levels, with most schools of pharmacy expecting a minimum of five GCSEs including maths, English language and one science 
  • some universities accept vocational qualifications such as BTEC Level 3, National Extended Diploma in Applied Sciences or the Access to HE Diploma 

NHS Roles – Pharmacist