Pharmacist
Also called: Chemist
Makes sure medicines are made, stored and used safely and correctly.
What the work is
Pharmacists are medicine experts. In hospitals and pharmacies they check prescriptions, dispense medicines and advise patients. In pharma companies they work in manufacturing, quality control, regulatory affairs, drug safety and research.
Routes include D.Pharm (2 years), B.Pharm (4 years), M.Pharm and the six-year Pharm.D. India is a global leader in generic medicines, so pharma industry jobs are plentiful.
A typical week
- Check prescriptions and dispense medicines
- Advise patients on doses and side effects
- Test medicine quality in a lab
- Prepare regulatory documents
It suits people who
- Like chemistry and biology
- Are careful and accurate
- Care about patient safety
Your path to get there
School (Class 8-10)
- Choose Science (PCB or PCM)
Class 11-12
- B.Pharm through state CETs or university entrances
College or fresher
- Intern in a hospital pharmacy or pharma plant
- Write GPAT for M.Pharm
Working or switching
- Pharmacists move into clinical research, drug safety and medical writing
- Healthcare workers can return through refresher courses and re-registration with their council.
- Hospitals often have flexible shifts and part-time roles for returning nurses and doctors.
Exams and certifications
| Name | What it is for | When |
|---|---|---|
| State CETs | B.Pharm admission | Once a year |
| GPAT ↗ | M.Pharm admission | Once a year |
Exam names, eligibility and dates change. Always check the official website for this year's notice.
Job market
Job titles to search
Who hires
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