Careers to Consider: Pre-Pharmacy
This article is part of a series spotlighting HFC academic and workforce programs leading to great careers. To view all HFC programs, visit this link.
The HFC Pre-Pharmacy program prepares students interested in becoming pharmacists for transfer to a 4-year university to pursue a career as a pharmacist.
This undergraduate program prepares you to enter a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program. It typically requires 2-4 years of foundational coursework that is focused in the sciences – such as chemistry, biology, and anatomy – before applying to pharmacy school.
What will you learn
Upon successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Apply principles of general and organic chemistry.
- Differentiate between algebraic and trigonometric concepts.
- Apply biological concepts and principles in the analysis of biological processes.
- Accurately interpret written forms of complex medical communication.
- Demonstrate interpersonal communication skills, both orally and in writing.
- Learn how medications are used to effectively treat patients.
- Understand the use, storage, and side effects of medications.
Career opportunities
Pharmacy is a highly paid profession. A Pharm.D. degree is required to practice as a pharmacist. You will have the option to take your skillset in many directions. These include pharmacies in:
- Retail (drugstores, grocery stores, general merchandise stores)
- Hospitals
- Healthcare facilities
- Compounding or specialized pharmacies
Transfer options and course schedule
The HFC Pre-Pharmacy program provide your first two years toward a 6-year or 8-year program of professional study to become a PharmD. After you complete this foundational program in our supportive environment, we will support your transfer to a 4-year university for advanced study.
The Pre-Pharmacy program provides you with a solid foundation by using carefully selected courses to maximize the transfer of coursework. Courses are selected to include the general admission criteria used by pharmacy schools, as well as formal transfer agreements HFC maintains with other universities.
Review the recommended sequence of classes and speak with your academic advisor before registering. We always recommend you talk to one of our friendly, expert advisors to make sure you select the right courses, stay on track toward graduation, and prepare for your next steps.
The Pre-Pharmacy Academic Advisor is Elyse Hogan. To make an appointment with Hogan, contact her at 313-845-9730 or echogan@hfcc.edu.
For questions or more information about the HFC Pre-Pharmacy program, contact Scheuer at 313-317-6575 or cscheuer@hfcc.edu.