A minimum grade point average of the entering class varies, and generally the entering class grade point average is near 3.5 for each of the institutions. In addition, the University of South Carolina requires that all students demonstrate typing proficiency and achieve an acceptable score on a USC foreign language proficiency test. Those failing to demonstrate language proficiency must satisfactorily complete equivalent study in a foreign language. Deadline for applications are February 15 at USC and January 15 at MUSC for the following fall semester. Many choose careers as community pharmacists with independent, chain and group pharmacies.
Institutional practice offers opportunities in hospitals and long-term health care facilities.
Pharmacists can also pursue careers with state or federal regulatory agencies as well as the armed forces and veterans administration. In addition, pharmacists may choose to pursue careers in the pharmaceutical industry as medical service representatives or in research and development of new products. Lastly, pharmacy graduates can pursue careers in academia as teachers and clinical researchers. This will vary based on the nature and geographic location of the position.