One-year residency programs in hospital pharmacy and community pharmacy, as well as continuing education courses, are also available. In addition, UBC offers master's and doctoral programs specializing in biopharmaceutics, clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, pharmacy practice and pharmacy management, for those interested in a career involving research. Prospective pharmacists should be able to present information clearly and quickly, work with a high degree of precision and maintain accurate records. Manual dexterity, analytical and problem-solving skills and knowledge of computer applications are necessary. Pharmacists who own or manage a pharmacy must learn to manage a business and supervise staff.
Many pharmacists spend most of their days on their feet.
When working with potentially dangerous or sterile pharmaceutical products, pharmacists wear gloves and masks and use protective equipment. Many community and hospital pharmacies are open long hours, so pharmacists may work evenings, nights, weekends and holidays. Those who consult may travel to nursing homes or other facilities. Pharmacists generally work a 40 hour week, although some self-employed pharmacists work over 50 hours a week. Like all health care professionals, they must be alert all the time, even in stressful situations.