Pharmacy (PharmD)

Sample 4 Year Plan

    Build a strong academic foundation, explore pharmacy, and join pre-health communities.

    Courses:

    • General Biology I & II + Labs
    • General Chemistry I & II + Labs
    • English Composition I & II
    • College Algebra or Pre-Calculus → move toward Calculus
    • Introduction to Psychology or Sociology
    • First-Year Seminar or General Education courses (history, arts, etc.)

    Activities:

    • Join the Pre-Pharmacy or Pre-Health Club
    • Begin volunteering (hospital, health fairs, food banks)
    • Attend pharmacy career panels/info sessions
    • Build good relationships with science faculty
    • Research pharmacy programs' prerequisite lists

    Complete organic chemistry, begin pharmacy-specific experiences, and improve GPA.

    Courses:

    • Organic Chemistry I & II + Labs
    • Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
    • Calculus I
    • Public Speaking or Communications
    • Statistics
    • Microbiology (optional but often required)
    • General Education electives (ethics, global studies, etc.)

    Activities:

    • Begin shadowing a pharmacist (community, hospital, or specialty)
    • Work or volunteer as a pharmacy technician (if possible)
    • Maintain a science GPA ≥ 3.5
    • Attend pharmacy school open houses or virtual tours
    • Look into PharmCAS and PCAT (if required by schools of interest)

    Finish most prerequisites, gain strong pharmacy exposure, and start the application process.

    Courses:

    • Biochemistry (if required)
    • Physics I (and II if required)
    • Genetics or Immunology (optional but recommended)
    • Health Economics or Social Determinants of Health
    • Advanced Writing or Medical Ethics (useful for communication skills)
    • General Ed courses/electives

    Activities:

    • Finalize list of pharmacy schools
    • Ask for letters of recommendation (from science faculty & pharmacist)
    • Start writing a personal statement
    • Consider taking the PCAT (if required) in the summer
    • Track experience hours and reflections (for PharmCAS)
    • Research scholarships and financial aid for PharmD programs

    Apply to PharmD programs, interview, and finish your degree.

    Courses:

    • Finish any remaining prerequisites
    • Capstone or upper-level science electives (if needed for major)
    • Free electives or minor courses
    • Ethics in Healthcare / Interpersonal Communication (if needed)

    Activities:

    • Apply to PharmD programs via PharmCAS (June–November)
    • Complete interviews (fall/spring)
    • Follow up with recommendation writers and schools
    • Attend mock interviews or workshops
    • Graduate with a strong final GPA