Studying pharmacy abroad: programmes, countries, admission and careers

Short answer: Pharmacy is a professional programme combining chemistry, biology and medical knowledge, usually 5 years long. Graduates can work in community pharmacies, hospitals, the pharmaceutical industry, quality control and research. Practising as a pharmacist requires a licence depending on the country.

Programme types

• Pharmacy — a professional programme, usually 5 years.
• Pharmaceutical Sciences — research- and industry-oriented bachelor's and master's.
• Pharmacology — the scientific study of how drugs act.
• Master's in clinical research and regulatory affairs.

Choosing a country

• Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia: English-taught pharmacy programmes. See: studying in Slovakia.
• UK: MPharm programmes and the professional registration route.
• Germany and Switzerland: a strong pharmaceutical industry, master's and research opportunities.
• Turkey: pharmacy faculties and cultural closeness.

Admission requirements

• Chemistry and biology results on the school certificate.
• An entrance exam at some universities.
• An English certificate.
• For a master's, a bachelor's in chemistry, biology or pharmacy.

Licensing and recognition

To work as a pharmacist, a licence and diploma recognition may be required in your study country or in Azerbaijan. Learn these conditions before choosing a programme.

Careers

Community and hospital pharmacy, production and quality control in pharmaceutical companies, clinical research, medical representation and regulatory affairs are the main paths.

Frequently asked questions

Is pharmacy easier than medicine?

It is a different field: there is less clinical practice, but the chemistry and laboratory load is heavy.

Can I move to medicine after pharmacy?

Sometimes part of the credits may count, but usually a new admission is required. See: changing university (transfer).

Note: programme structure and licensing rules vary by country. Check official information before applying.

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