This is normally taken the year before entering pharmacy school. Pharmacy colleges not only examine grades but also look for evidence of maturity and the ability to work well with others. Students not gaining immediate admission into pharmacy college are usually able to strengthen their credentials and reapply successfully. For students who decide not to attend pharmacy school, pre-pharmacy courses are applicable to numerous other health care fields including chemistry, biology, biochemistry or microbiology. Students with one of these majors may work at the bachelor's level in industry, governmental agencies or research institutions.
Many careers are available in pharmaceutical research.
Some graduates have earned teaching certificates. The chemistry and biology departments have a faculty member who advises students interested in the health care field. Both departments have sizable faculties, with most active in research. Juniors and seniors are encouraged to participate in this research, working on an individual basis with a faculty member on a problem of interest. There are also active undergraduate societies in biology, chemistry and pre-medicine which offer excellent opportunities to become acquainted with other students having similar interests.