Master in Pharmacy

Pharmacy programs focus on providing students with the knowledge of stocking and selling drugs. The programs may also help student’s acquire management and administrative skills. Students can work towards the bachelor, masters or PhD programs in pharmacy offered at traditional as well as online schools. A master’s program in pharmacy helps students acquire the skills and knowledge that may help them qualify to take up leadership or administrative roles in the pharmaceutical industry. Graduates may also get into the sales and marketing of pharmaceuticals.

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Pharmaceutical administrators and managers may have to look after the operations management side. The sales representatives, on the other hand, are responsible for selling drugs and other medical equipment. They may get commission as well as bonuses in addition to basic compensation.

According to the data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives including pharmaceutical sales agents is expected to increase from 2012 to 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

The master in pharmacy generally takes 1-2 years, depending on the enrollment status of the students. To enroll in this program, candidates need to hold a high school diploma or GED. They may also have to provide letters of recommendation, appear for an interview and submit statement of intent. Besides, candidates may be required to meet other prerequisites that may vary by school.

The coursework in the master’s programs in pharmacy include a variety of topics. Students may study pharmaceutical products, patient safety theory, healthcare risk management and federal regulations. The curriculum may also include courses in pharmaceutical microeconomics and pharmaceutical crime prevention.

Students who want to earn a master’s degree in pharmacy but cannot take out time to enroll in traditional programs can take the online route. The online master in pharmacy is an interactive program that can be completed at the students own pace. It allows students to study at their individual routine and acquire skills and knowledge in administration and sales on their own terms. All students need to participate in these programs is an internet connection and a computer.

A master degree in pharmacy may open various career paths for students. They may get into the field of sales, policy, marketing, benefits management, or patient safety. Candidates can possibly find administrative positions in the pharmaceutical industry or look for opportunities in sales.

According to the BLS, the median annual wage for wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives, technical and scientific products in 2012 was $74,970 and the income for pharmacists was $116,670. Compensation may vary by area of location, type of job and experience.

Students who earn a master in pharmacy may also choose enroll in a PhD program later on that is required for a career as a pharmacist. Both traditional and online schools offer this advanced program that may take 3-4 years to complete, although some may take shorter or even longer. The program instructs students in pharmacy law, health management, pharmacotherapy and dosage forms among other areas of study.