Pharmacist
Pharmacists are experts in the medicines used to treat or prevent disease and symptoms. They work with physicians and other health care providers to help patients obtain and use the right medications, at the right dosages and in the safest combinations. Pharmacists interpret and evaluate medication orders; compound, dispense and administer drugs; and provide information to physicians and others about the selection of the best drug products for specific problems. They help monitor a patient's medications to avoid complications caused by the interactions and adverse effects of drugs. Pharmacists also educate patients about medicines and help them make informed choices.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Pharmacists work in community pharmacies, or as members of a team of health care professionals in a hospital, clinic, nursing home or other health system. Pharmacists may supervise pharmacy technicians and other employees. Some pharmacists work in industry for pharmaceutical and medical research firms.

HIGH SCHOOL PREPARATION
General college preparation is recommended: Three courses in math including algebra I, algebra II and geometry, or a higher level math course for which algebra II is a prerequisite; three science courses including one biological science, one physical science and one lab course; four English units and two social studies units, including one in U.S. History; and two years of foreign language.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
To become licensed to practice pharmacy, you must graduate from a school or college of pharmacy which is accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education, complete an internship and pass an examination given by the State Board of Pharmacy. The academic experience culminates in the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, which takes six years to complete. Some schools offer the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in pharmacy.

AVERAGE STARTING SALARY
$50,000.