A masters or Ph.D. degree in pharmacy or a related field usually is required for research work, and a Pharm. D., masters, or Ph.D. is necessary for administrative work or college teaching. Most individuals begin their careers in this field in entry level jobs which usually do not require previous work experience, although a license is required in order to be accredited. All states and the District of Columbia require pharmacists to be licensed. Requirements include graduation from an accredited pharmacy program, passing a state board exam, and completing a specified amount of practical experience.
Most entrants are recent college graduates of pharmacy school.
Pharmacists must be conscientious and pay close attention to detail, because the decisions they make affect people's lives. The job can be physically exhausting. Pharmacists need to have patience, tact, resourcefulness, and emotional stability to help patients and their families.