Science & Mathematics Division

Careers

PHARMACIST

Pharmacists dispense medicines prescribed by medical and dental practitioners.

Areas of Specialization:

• Pharmacists

Work Activities:

• Prepare and dispense drugs and medications
• Give drug-related information and advice to health professionals and patients
• Keep records of purchase and distribution of drugs
• Order and store vaccines, biologicals, serums and other drugs
• Monitor drug therapy of patients
• Supervise employees, order and display other merchandise and direct business activities of a pharmacy or drug store
• Consult, research, teach or provide educational programs for health personnel

Skills and Aptitudes:

• Ability to work with the public and health professionals
• Good hand and finger dexterity
• Must be able to interpret and understand written prescriptions, formulas and other information on pharmaceuticals
• Knowledge of composition and properties of drugs and procedures for testing their purity and strength
• Strong science and mathematics abilities
• Good communication and writing skills
• Computer skills

Work Settings and Employers:

• Pharmacy departments of retail stores
• Colleges and universities
• Clinics and hospitals
• Government agencies
• Research labs
• Self-employed

Related Occupations:

• Chemists
• Pharmacy Assistants

Hiring Practices:

• Completion of a Bachelor's in Pharmacy
• Advanced degree is required for research, administration and teaching
• Apprenticeship or internship, technical preparation, or cooperative learning experience may be the most competitive
• Licensing is required to practice in Georgia

Wages:

• Average entry wage is approximately $40,080 per year in Georgia

Program of Study at Darton College to Pursue Career