The demand for Pharmacists will be stimulated by population growth and the aging of the population, which will boost demand for pharmaceutical services. Moreover, community pharmacies are expected to hire more Pharmacists because of a trend towards shorter working hours. Other factors likely to spur demand for Pharmacists include scientific advances that have made a wider range of drug products available for preventive and therapeutic uses, the rising standard of health care, and the growth of public and private health insurance programs that provide payment for prescription drugs. Employment of Pharmacists in hospitals and other health facilities is expected to rise faster than in other work settings. Pharmacists with advanced training will be needed for college teaching and top administrative posts.
Wages are generally higher for larger employers in urban areas.
To practice pharmacy, a license is required. Licensure requires graduation from an accredited pharmacy degree program, passage of a State board examination, possession of a specified amount of practical experience, or an internship under the supervision of a licensed Pharmacist. Internships generally are served in a community or hospital pharmacy. At least five years of study beyond high school are required to graduate from one of the degree programs accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education. Five years are needed to obtain a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree, the degrees received by most graduates.