Pharmacy or pharmacology?

If I would like to get into pharmacy in the future, does it matter which degree I get between pharmacy or pharmacology ?
Thank you

Reply 1

Dr_Jo

If you want to be a pharmacist, you have to take pharmacy.

Reply 2

UoN Students

Official Rep

Original post by asma421

If I would like to get into pharmacy in the future, does it matter which degree I get between pharmacy or pharmacology ?
Thank you

Hi @asma421

In order to become a qualified and registered pharmacist you must complete an MPharm degree at an accredited institution (university).

Pharmacology is more the study of the medicines and their effect on the body and tends to lead people down the routes of the pharmaceutical industry, instead of working in a pharmacy. If industry is of interest to you there is also the pharmaceutical science degrees that are available which research the creation of medications and again lead to careers in industry

If you would like more information about any of the courses please ask!

Dom :smile:

Reply 3

De Montfort University

Official Rep

Original post by asma421

If I would like to get into pharmacy in the future, does it matter which degree I get between pharmacy or pharmacology ?
Thank you

Hey there 🤗

To answer your question, there is a bit of a difference between a pharmacy and a pharmacology degree. It depends on what kind of role you see yourself in. Both paths offer exciting opportunities, and if you’re passionate about the field, either degree will give you a strong foundation.

A pharmacy degree is more focused on becoming a licensed pharmacist. It’s the degree that will qualify you to work in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings where you can directly dispense medication and advise patients.

However, pharmacology is more about the science behind how drugs work. It’s usually more research-focused, so if you’re interested in drug development or working in labs, this could be the way to go. Although, remember that it doesn’t lead to becoming a licensed pharmacist like a pharmacy degree would.

If your goal is to work as a pharmacist, then a pharmacy degree is definitely the way to go. But if you’re more drawn to research or drug development, pharmacology could be a great fit.

I hope it was helpful 💪 Feel free to reach out if you have any questions 😉 You can also chat with me or other students directly through The Ambassador Platform.

Take care,

Julia
Psychology student
De Montfort University

Reply 4

i.ate.seokjin

Original post by De Montfort University

Hey there 🤗
To answer your question, there is a bit of a difference between a pharmacy and a pharmacology degree. It depends on what kind of role you see yourself in. Both paths offer exciting opportunities, and if you’re passionate about the field, either degree will give you a strong foundation.
A pharmacy degree is more focused on becoming a licensed pharmacist. It’s the degree that will qualify you to work in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings where you can directly dispense medication and advise patients.
However, pharmacology is more about the science behind how drugs work. It’s usually more research-focused, so if you’re interested in drug development or working in labs, this could be the way to go. Although, remember that it doesn’t lead to becoming a licensed pharmacist like a pharmacy degree would.
If your goal is to work as a pharmacist, then a pharmacy degree is definitely the way to go. But if you’re more drawn to research or drug development, pharmacology could be a great fit.
I hope it was helpful 💪 Feel free to reach out if you have any questions 😉 You can also chat with me or other students directly through The Ambassador Platform.
Take care,
Julia
Psychology student
De Montfort University

Hi Julia,
I have a couple of questions. If I were to take pharmacology in university as an undergraduate, what career options does it open once I leave university. Do people mainly end up working in labs? What is the typical route people go through once graduating with a degree in pharmacology? What are all the possible options I could have as a career.

Thank you,
Alayna.

Reply 5

McGinger

Useful info - Choosing between Pharmacy and Pharmacology

Reply 6

De Montfort University

Official Rep

Original post by i.ate.seokjin

Hi Alayna 🤗

Thanks so much for reaching out with your questions! 😊

Pharmacology offers a wide range of career possibilities. While lab work is a common route - like research in pharmaceutical companies or academic institutions - it’s definitely not the only option. Many pharmacology grads also go into clinical trials, regulatory affairs, drug development, or even pursue roles in healthcare consulting and policy. Some choose to continue their studies in medical, dental, or veterinary school, or specialize further with a master's or PhD.

The career route often depends on whether you want to work more with hands-on research, clinical applications, or regulatory and advisory roles. If you’d like more details on any specific career path, I definitely recommend checking out the Prospects website.

I hope it was helpful 💪 Feel free to reach out if you have any questions 😉 You can also chat with me or other students directly through The Ambassador Platform.

All the best,

Julia
Psychology student
De Montfort University