II.

Education and Practice

In the United States, many colleges of pharmacy offer four-year programs leading to a bachelor of science (B.S.) degree in the pharmaceutical sciences. Colleges of pharmacy also offer programs leading to a doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. Depending on the amount of schooling attendees have completed before they begin, it can take from four to seven years to complete this degree. To become a practicing pharmacist, however, a license is required. Licenses are granted by states after the following requirements have been met: graduation from one of the 82 colleges and schools of pharmacy with programs accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education; participation in an internship under a registered pharmacist; and satisfactory completion of a national licensing examination. Pharmacists may practice their profession in a pharmacy located in a hospital or nursing home, or in a community-based pharmacy, such as those found in drug stores and supermarkets. Pharmacists may also work for managed care organizations, consulting firms, or pharmaceutical companies, which may hire these professionals to conduct scientific research or to participate in the development and production of new pharmaceutical products.