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Community pharmacist: Entry requirements

A four-year degree in pharmacy (MPharm), followed by one year of pre-registration training (pre-reg), is necessary in order to practise as a community pharmacist.

Entry to the profession without a pharmacy degree or with an HND only is not possible. Work as a pharmacy technician (usually trained to NVQ level 3) will give experience of the work environment but will not allow progression to community pharmacist.

Although a limited number of places are available on pharmacy degree courses for science and non-science graduates, any exemptions to course work would be unlikely, as pharmacy has become increasingly specialised. For details of entrance requirements, see the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) .

At present, all courses must be accredited by the RPSGB or The Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland . This will change in 2010, when a new regulatory body, the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) will be responsible for the statutory regulation of pharmacists. A final decision as to the future of the professional regulatory arrangements for Northern Ireland will not be made until after the GPhC is established in Great Britain.

To gain admittance to the professional register of pharmacists, you must:

complete one year's pre-registration training under the supervision of an approved pharmacist and tutor and demonstrate a range of competences essential for pharmacy practice;
pass the Royal Pharmaceutical Society examination.

It is possible to complete the pre-reg year in another area of pharmacy, such as hospital or industry, and then transfer over to community pharmacy. However, it is more usual for community pharmacists to have done their pre-reg year in a community pharmacy.

Potential candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

good communication skills - you must be able to listen carefully to what patients say, as well as be able to explain complex and sometimes sensitive information to the general public and other healthcare professionals;
the ability to work with others in a multidisciplinary team as well as lead others in a team;
concern for the welfare of the general public;
accuracy and meticulous attention to detail;
a methodical approach to work;
an understanding of business principles;
a professional and confident manner;
the ability to inspire the trust of others;
a willingness to take on a high level of responsibility.

Try to get work experience that will enhance your knowledge and develop skills in working with the public, particularly in a retail environment.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

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