Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare
professionals. For approximately thirty years, individuals pursuing
pharmacy training in California have had to obtain a Doctor of
Pharmacy degree or "PharmD." Obtaining this degree requires
eight semesters or 12 quarters of professional study which follow
a minimum of two years of pre-pharmacy study. After graduating
from pharmacy school an increasing number of students are seeking
residency training in pharmacy practice, which adds another year
or so to their total education. The pharmacist's educational experience
does not end there however.
California pharmacists have to take
continuing education courses every year in order to maintain their
license. Pharmacists obtain this additional education through
correspondence courses, attending professional meetings and seminars
presented by pharmacy associations, or participating in courses
provided by the schools and colleges of pharmacy. Pharmacists
interested in finding opportunities to keep their clinical skills
sharp and pursue new professional opportunities should visit the
following sites:
