Pharmaceutical Graduate Career Profile

The majority of pharmacy graduates become pharmacists; however they are also able to work within academia, regulatory bodies and the pharmaceutical industry. The research side of the industry aims to use science to create new methods for the treatment and/or prevention of illness and disease. Most of the latter types of pharmaceutical graduate careers begin in the most common types of entry-level positions: pharmaceutical sales roles and research assistants.

Average Pharmaceutical Graduate Salary

Pharmaceutical Graduate Career Path

Jobs directly related to a qualification in pharmacy:

• Community pharmacist
• Hospital pharmacist
• Research scientist

Jobs that also see the degree as useful:

• Clinical research associate
• Higher education lecturer
• Medical sales representative
• Pharmacologist
• Product/process development scientist
• Regulatory affairs officer
• Research scientist (life sciences)
• Science writer
• Toxicologist

As many pharmacy graduates leave and apply strictly to pharmaceutical roles, meaning fierce competition, it would be wise to consider the alternative pharmaceutical graduate career paths.

Qualifications and Skills Needed

What proportion of candidates as a percent we place into Pharmaceutical graduate careers and the typical qualities graduate employers look for.

Relevant work experience is a greatly valued asset for showing potential employers that you are determined and enthusiastic about working within the industry. Whether it be paid or voluntary, it is great in allowing yourself to stand out from the crowd.

By studying pharmacy, you are able to develop the following desirable skills:

• Facts and theory knowledge associated with design and manufacture of medicine
• Good communication with both patients and colleagues
• Production of pharmacy specific scientific documentation
• Operation of pharmaceutical equipment
• In-depth knowledge of the law with a heightened awareness for ethical concerns
• Analysis of medicines

You will also need a strong skill set in:

• Interpersonal skills
• Team player
• Problem solver
• Good time management
• Organised
• Commercial awareness

Sources for Further Information

Royal Pharmaceutical Society: www.rpharms.com
Institute of Pharmacy Management: www.ipmi.org.uk