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How wise of a career choice is Pharmacy?

I have been wondering what uni courses to apply for and am stuck between chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacy. I've been told by many people that doing a science degree like chemistry/biochemistry is not worth it and that they couldn't find any worthwhile jobs when they graduated, instead only low paid, repetitive, boring lab jobs. That's why I looked into Pharmacy because it seems as though there will always be a secure job route, but is the job at the end of the MPharm degree worth it? How's the work balance? I am not only driven by salary but of course it is also on my mind. Is there any point in me taking this degree or should I choose something else?

Reply 1

Original post by leonradams
I have been wondering what uni courses to apply for and am stuck between chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacy. I've been told by many people that doing a science degree like chemistry/biochemistry is not worth it and that they couldn't find any worthwhile jobs when they graduated, instead only low paid, repetitive, boring lab jobs. That's why I looked into Pharmacy because it seems as though there will always be a secure job route, but is the job at the end of the MPharm degree worth it? How's the work balance? I am not only driven by salary but of course it is also on my mind. Is there any point in me taking this degree or should I choose something else?


You won’t struggle to find a job in pharmacy at all. You could work in a community pharmacy, hospital, in GP, industry or even other places so yes i’d say it is worth it. Hospital would be the most interesting route imo and you can specialise as well if you want in eg oncology. Only take the degree if you are interested in pharmacy though, the course is ofc going to be tough but it will be fine if you can manage your time properly, its a 4year course and then you have 1year pre-registration training after graduating.
It is a very rewarding job. I’m currently a 2nd year pharmacy student so feel free to send a private message if you have any other questions or about the course content etc

Reply 2

Original post by Studentlife007
You won’t struggle to find a job in pharmacy at all. You could work in a community pharmacy, hospital, in GP, industry or even other places so yes i’d say it is worth it. Hospital would be the most interesting route imo and you can specialise as well if you want in eg oncology. Only take the degree if you are interested in pharmacy though, the course is ofc going to be tough but it will be fine if you can manage your time properly, its a 4year course and then you have 1year pre-registration training after graduating.
It is a very rewarding job. I’m currently a 2nd year pharmacy student so feel free to send a private message if you have any other questions or about the course content etc

How difficult is it to get a job on the hospital route? I’ve heard community is where the vast majority of jobs are and I don’t really fancy that. Also is it possible to practise pharmacy abroad if I am an EU citizen or do I need other qualifications?

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