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PharmD
Pharmacy Career Resources
Pharmacy Job Overview
Through classroom learning, in-person clinical practice, and community outreach activities, WCU’s hybrid PharmD program helps students develop the skills needed to take on the challenges of today’s pharmacy field.
Whether you’re a graduate, current student, or are just interested in a pharmacy career, take a look at the information below to better understand and prepare for this rewarding career path.
Sample Pharmacy Job Titles
- Clinical Pharmacist
- Hospital Pharmacist
- Informatics Pharmacist
- Pharm D (Pharmacy Doctor)
- Pharmacist in Charge (PIC)
- Pharmacy Coordinator
- Pharmacy Informaticist
- Pharmacy Services Clinical Coordinator
- Registered Pharmacist
- Retail Pharmacist
Sample Pharmacist Responsibilities
- Dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners
- Check that patients’ newly prescribed medication will not adversely react with their allergies, medical conditions, and other drugs they are taking
- Provide information to patients about medications and their use
- Administer vaccinations, such as flu shots
- Advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications
- Coordinate with insurance companies to resolve billing issues
- Supervise the work of pharmacy technicians and pharmacists in training (interns)
- Maintain patient and pharmacy records
Top Pharmacist Qualities
- Analytical – must evaluate the contents and side effects of prescribed medication to ensure patient safety
- Strong communication – must explain to patients about how to take medication and what its potential side effects are, as well as convey information to pharmacy technicians, interns, and other healthcare staff
- Compassionate – must be sympathetic to patients’ problems and needs
- Detail oriented – must accurately provide the appropriate medication for each patient
- Interpersonal skills – must regularly interact with patients and other members of the healthcare team
- Managerial skills – must have good leadership skills including the ability to oversee inventory and direct staff
For more, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Profile for Pharmacists
Pharmacist Job Interview Preparation
Volunteer Opportunities
FAQs
What are some common pharmacist interview questions?
Depending on the nature of the role, a pharmacist interview can look different. Generally, an interview for a pharmacist job will contain a mix of questions focused on clinical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and your ability to interact with patients.
Here are some potential questions:
- Can you walk me through your resume?
- What made you want to become a pharmacist?
- How do you prioritize tasks during a busy shift?
- How do you ensure accuracy when filling prescriptions?
- Describe a time when you had to resolve a medication-related issue for a patient.
- How do you stay updated on new drugs and pharmacy regulations?
- Explain how you would handle a situation where a doctor prescribed a medication that could interact with other drugs the patient is taking.
What should I include on my pharmacist resume?
Your pharmacist resume should emphasize both clinical and customer service skills. Key elements to include are a professional summary briefly explaining your qualifications and career goals, your work experience, education and licensure, skills you want to highlight that are relevant to the role, and any certifications.
What are the benefits of joining pharmacy associations?
Associations like the American Pharmacists Association provide networking opportunities, continuing education, access to publications, advocacy for the profession, job postings, and other perks.
How can WCU Career Services help?
Our Career Services offer a range of services, including career advising and resume review, so you can feel confident about every step of your job search. We’ll help prepare you for real job interviews and give you the tools you need to make a strong impression on hiring managers.
Additionally, we partner with hundreds of employers across various industries, helping to facilitate meaningful connections and opportunities between recruiting companies and our student and alumni populations.
“I advise student pharmacists to have conversations with their advisors, pharmacists, and pharmacy preceptors to gain different perspectives about the pharmacy profession. This will help them build their professional network and develop their career goals within pharmacy.”
– Marc S, PharmD Graduate ‘18
Have Questions
Get in touch with our team
*The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
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