Doctor of Pharmacy or Pharm D courses in USA pave the way to becoming pharmacists. You need to have a background in chemistry, physics and biology to pursue Pharm D courses in USA. Pharmacists are responsible for dispensing medicines to patients and also guide them for safe use. After completing the Pharm D program, you will have to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE) or other state-specific exams as well as complete certain hours of internship before finally being able to work as a pharmacist.
We bring to you this blog to give you context about PharmD colleges in USA and complete details related to course structure, eligibility criteria, admission process, tuition fees, scholarships, Pharm D scope in USA, jobs after Pharm D in USA and a lot more!
Why Study Pharm D Courses in USA?
Given the amount of time and money that needs to be invested to pursue Pharm D courses in the USA, students often look for reasons that assure them they have made the right choice. Before discussing the best Pharm D colleges in USA, let us throw some light on why study Pharm D courses in USA:
- There are 67 US universities that have ranked in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 for pharmacy and pharmacology.
- Remarkably out of the 67 universities, 21 have secured a place in the top 100 globally for pharmacy.
- The data of the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests an addition of more than 13,600 jobs for pharmacists annually between 2021-2031.
- The profession yields high returns which forms a great return on investment with an expected median pay of 128,570 USD per year.
- The healthcare sector is one of the fastest growing in USA and professionals in this field are always in demand.
Best Pharm D Universities in USA
US universities are globally recognised for their excellent infrastructure and groundbreaking research and innovation. There is an array of coveted Pharm D universities in USA of which we bring to you a curated list of 5 best Pharm D colleges in USA:
- John Hopkins University
- University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
- Purdue University
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- University of Pittsburgh
Take a look at the key details of each of these universities:
1. John Hopkins University
The Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences at the John Hopkins University offers the PhD in Pharmacology along with several other PhD programs in Biological Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Immunology, Pathobiology, etc. The program offers financial support to students covering tuition, living costs and medical insurance.
|
University Type |
Private |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
24 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 (Pharmacy and Pharmacology) |
8 |
|
Program Offered |
PhD in Pharmacology |
|
Average Annual Program Fees |
59,700 USD per year |
2. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
The PharmD program at University of Michigan - Ann Arbor is housed within the College of Pharmacy. There are multiple PharmD scholarships awarded by the university to meritorious students and it is named among the top 10 most affordable pharmacy schools in USA.
|
University Type |
Public |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
25 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 (Pharmacy and Pharmacology) |
19 |
|
Program Offered |
PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, PhD in Clinical Pharmacy, Postdoc in Clinical Pharmacy |
|
Average Annual Program Fees |
39,954 USD per year |
3. Purdue University
The Purdue College of Pharmacy of Purdue University accepts applications through the Pharmacy College Application Service (PCAS). It is to be noted that the university does not consider PCAT scores for evaluation, whereas value is given to community volunteer service as well as leadership experience.
|
University Type |
Public |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
129 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 (Pharmacy and Pharmacology) |
24 |
|
Program Offered |
Pharm D |
|
Average Annual Program Fees |
20,279 USD per year |
4. University of Minnesota Twin Cities
University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy offers a PharmD professional program as well as unique dual degrees such as PharmD/ MBA, PharmD/ MHI or PharmD/ MPH dual degree programs. The university awards over 800,000 USD annually as scholarships to incoming students.
|
University Type |
Public |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
185 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 (Pharmacy and Pharmacology) |
43 |
|
Program Offered |
Pharm D professional program |
|
Average Annual Program Fees |
40,800 USD per year upto 3 years, 61,200 USD for the 4th year |
5. University of Pittsburgh
The Pitts PharmD program at University of Pittsburgh is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). The program requires all students to complete a minimum of 2 years of pre-professional study from any accredited institution before being accepted to the professional program.
|
University Type |
Public |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
181 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022 (Pharmacy and Pharmacology) |
91 |
|
Program Offered |
PharmD |
|
Average Annual Program Fees |
39,968 USD per year |
How to shortlist a university?
Course Curriculum for Pharm D Courses in USA
Having adequate knowledge about the course curriculum before enrolling for any Pharm D courses in USA is necessary. Usually, the Pharm D course can be completed in 4 years while some universities offer a 3-year fast track option or even admit graduates from high school for a complete 6-year program.
We have summarized the course curriculum for Pharm D programs in USA for international students In the following table:
|
Course Duration |
4 years |
|
Course Content |
Courses in pharmacology, chemistry, medical ethics, pharmaceutics, drug development, etc. |
|
Course Alternatives |
PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, PhD in Clinical Pharmacy |
Eligibility Criteria for Pharm D Courses in USA
The eligibility criteria to pursue Pharm D courses in USA is more or less similar for every university. The score requirements may vary from university to university. Here are the requirements to be fulfilled for admission to PharmD programs USA:
- Master’s degree
- PCAT scores
- English language proficiency test scores
Let us take a look at how you can fulfill these eligibility criteria one at a time:
1. Master’s degree
A completed master’s degree in pharmacy with subjects such as chemistry, biology or physics is required with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above.
Suggested: Masters university finder
2. PCAT scores
US universities may also ask for scores of the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT), although not compulsory.
3. English language proficiency test scores
If you are an international student whose native language is not English, you must submit IELTS or TOEFL scores as proof of English language proficiency. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL-iBT score of 90 or above is recommended for admission.
Documents Required to Apply for Pharm D Colleges in USA
To complete your application for Pharm D programs in USA for international students, you must keep the following documents handy while applying:
- Copy of official academic transcripts
- Proof of degree completion
- PCAT scores
- English language proficiency test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Updated CV
- Copy of passport
- Proof of sufficient finances
How to Apply for Pharm D Courses in USA?
- Prepare a list of shortlisted Pharm D colleges in USA at least 8-10 months before the application process starts.
- Visit the official university website and look for application details, including eligibility criteria, requirements, application deadline, fees, scholarships, etc.
- Complete the online application and submit the necessary application fee.
- Upload the supporting documents required to complete your application along with the translations and evaluations, if required.
- After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email along with the link to track the status of your application.
- Wait till the admission decision is announced and if you are accepted, confirm your seat by depositing the tuition fee.
- Once you receive your letter of acceptance, start the process to apply for the F-1 student visa in your home country.
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Pharm D in USA Fees
Considering the cost of studying is quintessential for every international student. Education in USA is a costly affair, and in order to determine your expenses, you need to consider the tuition fees as well as the cost of living as discussed below:
Tuition Fees
On average, the pharm d in USA fees for international students is around 25,000 USD - 55,000 USD per year. If you compare the Pharm D course fees in USA at public universities to that of private universities, public universities are much more affordable. At the same time, private universities offer a range of financial aid opportunities to international students that make up for the high fees.
Cost of Living
Living in USA cost is expensive compared to several other study abroad destinations. The monthly average living expenses for an international student in USA is somewhere between 1,000-1,500 USD which may increase further depending on the type of accommodation, transportation, food and personal expenses. Therefore, apart from the Pharm D in USA fees, you will need at least 12,000 USD - 18,000 USD per year to meet the cost of living.
Scholarships for PharmD Programs USA
Understanding the financial burden that the tuition fee can impose on PharmD USA international students, universities offer a variety of scholarships. The amount awarded to you as scholarships may cover 25% to 100% of your tuition fees based on academic excellence or financial need. In order to get access to the best scholarship, you are encouraged to apply for admission early.
Take a look at the table below to know more about the scholarships awarded by Pharm D colleges in USA:
|
Scholarship Name |
Amount |
|
Pharmacy Scholarship (University of Michigan - Ann Arbor) |
8,000 USD per year for 3 years and 12,000 USD in the 4th year |
|
Scholarships for Highest Distinction in Academic Performance (University of Michigan - Ann Arbor) |
1,000 USD - 4,000 USD per year depending on GPA achieved |
|
Fred and Dee Lyons Leadership Scholarship |
10,000 USD |
|
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) and Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSPS) Scholarships (Purdue University) |
500 USD - 2,000 USD per year |
|
Dean’s Nonresident Scholarship (University of Minnesota) |
Covers the difference between resident and non-resident tuition fees |
What are the Jobs After Pharm D in USA?
Pharm D is the highest level of qualification in the field of pharmacy and will lead you to job opportunities with lucrative packages. Pharmacists are largely employed in pharmacies and drug stores and some at hospitals and healthcare facilities. The top jobs after Pharm D in USA, along with expected annual salaries, have been discussed in the table below:
|
Job Title |
Average Annual Salaries |
|
Pharmacist |
115,862 USD |
|
Pharmacy Manager |
136,003 USD |
|
Clinical Pharmacist |
119,602 USD |
|
Pharmacy Director |
147,920 USD |
|
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist |
123,056 USD |
With this we come to the end of our discussion on Pharm D colleges in USA. After getting your Pharm D degree in USA, you can also take continuing education courses to advance in your career and stay updated with the latest changes in pharmacological sciences. To broaden your Pharm D scope in USA, you can further complete the 2 year residency program and develop your area of specialty. Speak to our Yocket counsellors today and get complete guidance in choosing the top Pharm D colleges in USA
Frequently Asked Questions about Pharm D Courses in USA
Ques. Is an Indian PharmD degree valid in USA?
Ans. To be eligible to work as a pharmacist in the USA with an Indian PharmD degree, you must clear the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Certification (FPGEC) and North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) tests.
Ques. How much does it cost to do PharmD courses in USA for Indian students?
Ans. The average Pharm D in USA fees for Indian students is around 20,00,000 INR - 45,00,000 INR per year.
Ques. Do all universities require PCAT scores for admission to PharmD in USA?
Ans. No, PCAT scores are not mandatory for admission to PharmD in USA. Several universities do not consider PCAT scores for the purpose of admission evaluation.
Ques. How much do pharmacists make in USA?
Ans. The average salary for pharmacists in USA is 115,862 USD per year.
Ques. How long is the PharmD course in USA?
Ans. It takes 4 years to complete a PharmD course in USA, whereas some universities provide the option to complete the program in 3 years.