Pharm D (Doctorate of Pharmacy) is a 6-year professional postgraduate program (pre-PhD) that focuses on clinical pharmacy, medicine, and patient healthcare. This course is divided into two phases: five years of academic study and one year of internship or residency. In this article, we explore the scope of Pharm D in India and abroad, along with career opportunities, eligibility criteria, and top employers.
In countries such as the USA, Australia, and Canada, this course plays a vital role in the healthcare system. As the highest qualification for pharmacy students, the scope of Pharm D in India is also expanding steadily.
Passed 10+2 with Science (Medical/Non-Medical) or D. Pharm.
Diploma from a PCI-approved institution.
10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
Minimum 50% marks in 12th grade.
Standardized test scores like (SAT and TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE language proficiency tests
Pharm D graduates can find job opportunities across various private and government sectors such as KPOs, governmental organizations, BPOs, healthcare services and corporate firms. Some popular job profiles and their potential annual salaries are given in the table below.
Career | Average Annual Salary |
Clinical Pharmacist | Rs 3.1 Lakhs |
Pharmacy Executive | Rs 2.7 Lakhs |
Medical Writer | Rs 5.9 Lakhs |
Clinical Research Associate | Rs 4.5 Lakhs |
Regulatory Associates | Rs 5.5 Lakhs |
(Salary source: Ambitionbox, Glassdoor)
Pharm. D scope is available in various private and government sectors. Here are some of the best job opportunities in India,
Clinical Research
Pharmacovigilance
Drug Information and Regulatory Affairs
Community and Hospital Pharmacy
E-Pharmacy and E-Prescription Services
Pediatric and Ambulatory Care
Medical Coding and Patient Counseling
Pharmaceutical Technology- The Pharmaceutical Technology specialization includes the study on developing new methods for manufacturing and developing drugs.
Pharmaceutical R&D- Pharmaceutical R&D professionals research new drugs and discover medicines and treatments for patients or people.
Medicinal Chemistry- Medicinal Chemistry study deals with the research and development of pharmaceuticals. They research pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, Biomedical analysis, and pharmacology.
Industrial Pharmacies- Industrial pharmacy studies involve the development, manufacture, promotion, and distribution of medicines to end-users.
Here are some of the top Pharma. D companies Abroad providing Pharm. D job opportunities.
Accenture
TCS
Indegene
Moderna
Fortis
Johnson & Johnson
Biocon
Quintiles Inc
Cipla
Lupin
Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd
Divi’s Laboratories Ltd
Torrent
Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Aurobindo Pharma Ltd
Sun
Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd
Novartis
AstraZeneca
Johnson & Johnson
Merck
AbbVie
GlaxoSmithKline
Sanofi
Pfizer
Pharm D is a rewarding career with extensive future opportunities for students passionate about healthcare and medicines. This is a field with growing demand in both India and abroad, offering a plethora of opportunities for aspiring pharmacists. Whether working locally or internationally, Pharm D graduates are employed in high paying positions with great career growth opportunities. Develop the right skills and gain relevant experience to build a successful and rewarding professional career after Pharm D.