An online master’s degree in pharmacy may provide students with the skills and training needed to administer prescription medicine. Students enrolled in these upper-level programs may learn how to create, manufacture, and deliver pharmaceuticals that are safe for patients to use and adhere to federal regulations. Coursework within these programs may include science-related electives and major-specific courses, such as pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical toxicology.

Upon graduation, students may seek employment or further their education and enroll in a doctoral-level program in pharmacy. Master’s-level graduates may find employment opportunities in healthcare, medicine, and retail.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 25% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online master’s degree in pharmacy may combine science-based electives and major-specific courses. In these upper-level programs, students may demonstrate an understanding of federal laws pertaining to pharmaceuticals, study the global pharmaceutical market, and communicate effectively to patients and others in the industry. Core pharmacy courses may include the following:

• Pharmacology
• Pharmaceutical Chemistry
• Dispensing Pharmaceuticals
• Drug Formulation Science
• Pharmacy Placement
• Pharmcoeconomics
• Clinical Toxicology

Career Options

Graduates of online master’s degree in pharmacy may find jobs working in retail, healthcare, and medicine. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as pharmacists are expected to increase by 25% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Pharmacist
• Biochemist
• Medical Scientist
• Pharmacy Technician
• Medical Sales Representative

Continuing Education

Upon graduation, students may opt to pursue additional education and enroll in a doctoral-level program in pharmacy (Pharm.D.). These research-heavy PhD programs may provide students additional training on dispensing pharmaceuticals and allow them to complete practical experience.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook