Pharmacy as a career option has always been in demand. India being a huge nation of about a billion populations, diseases both minor and major has been a curse upon the weak and the poor. In the previous centuries and almost till the middle of the 20th century killer diseases such as acute respiratory infections, diarrhea, depression, tuberculosis, measles and anemia etc. have been affecting thousands every year. With the advancements in medical science most of these diseases have been brought under control, with the help of high powerful antibiotics and other life saving drugs. This is where pharmacy steps in to fill the void.
There are several courses available in pharmacy offered by institutions across the country. For joining a diploma course one should have completed class 10th examination. Those who want to pursue bachelor program viz. B. Pharm should have completed 10+2 Science with Physics, Chemistry, Maths and/or Biology.
Master’s program and PhD programs are also offered at university level. For master’s program one should have completed B.Pharm and for PhD program one should have completed master’s program in Pharmacy or related field.
Career Prospects
There are ample scopes for pharmaceutical graduates both in public and private sector. They can work in production section in pharmaceutical companies, product marketing, quality control, research, etc. They are also employed by large hospitals and research centres. Pharmacists are also required in hospitals/dispensaries.
There is great demand for pharmacists in western countries also, and many Indians have fared well in this field abroad.
Those opting for D. Pharm. are employed in the above organizations at a lower level, and they also find vast avenues of employment in pharmacies and medical shops.
Those having Diploma qualification in Pharmacy can work as a Pharmacist in Govt/Semi Govt/Private Hospitals. They can also start their own Medical Store.
Bachelor in Pharmacy holders can work as a Medical representative or a medical detailing man or Marketing Managers or a Sales Manager. They can also find positions such as Drug Inspectors, Drug Controllers in government sector. One can also join hospitals as Graduate Pharmacist or Chief Pharmacist.
Individuals who are having higher qualifications such as M.Pharm and PhD can join as Lecturers/Professors in D.Pharm and B.Pharm Colleges or can join as research associates/scientists in labs and institutions for R&D.
Pay-Package
The earnings of pharmacy professionals are very high. The starting average salary of a pharmacist in government hospital is around Rs.5, 000. Those who are working in manufacturing units get handsome salary apart from other perks and benefits. Medical Representatives also get salary between Rs.5, 000 - 10,000 per month + incentives. Research Scientists who work in research labs and R&D units get Rs.15, 000 - 40,000 per month depending upon their experience.
Click here to show List of Pharmacy Colleges in Gujarat