Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Pharmacist in India

Become a Pharmacist in India

A Pharmacist is a healthcare professional who prepares, dispenses, and manages medications prescribed by doctors. Pharmacists also provide advice about safe and effective use of medicines.

1. Educational Qualification

To become a pharmacist in India, you must study Pharmacy after completing 10+2 (Science stream).

➤ Minimum Qualification:

• 10+2 (Intermediate) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics as main subjects.
• Minimum 50% marks (varies by institute).

📘 2. Pharmacy Courses in India

There are three main levels of pharmacy education:

A. Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm)

• Duration: 2 years
• Eligibility: 10+2 with PCB/PCM
• Admission Process: Merit-based or entrance exam (state-level or college-level)
• Average Fees: ₹40,000 – ₹1,00,000 (total course)
• Outcome: Eligible to register as a Registered Pharmacist and work in hospitals, medical stores, or clinics.

B. Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm)

• Duration: 4 years
• Eligibility: 10+2 with PCB/PCM
• Admission Process: Through entrance exams like NEET, MHT-CET, WBJEE, etc.
• Average Fees: ₹2 – ₹6 lakh (total course)
• Outcome: Eligible for both private and government jobs; can pursue M.Pharm or Pharm.D later.

C. Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D)

• Duration: 6 years (5 years academic + 1-year internship)
• Eligibility: 10+2 with PCB/PCM or D.Pharm holders
• Average Fees: ₹6 – ₹15 lakh
• Outcome: Professional doctorate degree; can work as a Clinical Pharmacist in hospitals or research centers.

3. Duration Summary

4. Total Expense Estimate

5. Government Jobs for Pharmacists

After registering with the State Pharmacy Council, you can apply for various government jobs such as:

6. Private Sector Jobs

After completing B.Pharm or Pharm.D, you can work in:

7. Career Growth & Higher Studies

After B.Pharm or Pharm.D, you can go for:

• M.Pharm (Master of Pharmacy) – specialization in Pharmacology, Pharmaceutics, etc.
• MBA in Pharmaceutical Management
• Ph.D. in Pharmacy – for research & academic career
• Government exams – for Drug Inspector, Pharmacist Officer, etc.

8. Registration & License

After completing D.Pharm or B.Pharm, register with your State Pharmacy Council under the Pharmacy Act, 1948 to become a Registered Pharmacist (R.Ph.). Some colleges provide registration certificate during completion of course.
Only registered pharmacists can legally dispense medicines in India.

9. Skills Required

• Knowledge of drugs and formulations
• Good communication & analytical skills
• Understanding of pharmacology & patient care
• Accuracy in prescription handling
• Interest in research & healthcare

10. Summary Table

Official Sources

• Pharmacy Council of India (PCI): https://www.pci.nic.in/
• National Health Mission (NHM) Jobs: https://nhm.gov.in/
• Government Job Portal: https://www.ncs.gov.in/