Pharmacists
Pharmacists answer customers’ questions and explain the safe use of medications.
| Quick Facts: | |
|---|---|
| 2010 Median Pay | $111,570 per year $53.64 per hour |
| Entry-Level Education | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
| On-the-job Training | None |
| Number of Jobs, 2010 | 274,900 |
| Job Outlook, 2010-20 | 25% (Faster than average) |
| Employment Change, 2010-20 | 69,700 |
What Pharmacists Do
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer advice on their safe use.
Work Environment
Pharmacists work in pharmacies, including those in grocery and drug stores. They also work in hospitals and clinics.
How to Become a Pharmacist
Pharmacists must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), a 4-year professional degree. They also must be licensed, which requires passing two exams.
Pay
The median annual wage for pharmacists was $111,570 in May 2010.
Job Outlook
Employment of pharmacists is expected to increase by 25 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations.
- Summary
- Career:
- Pharmacists
- Ave Starting Salary:
- approx. $84,490yr
- Ave Median Salary:
- approx. $111,570yr
- Job Outlook:
- Good
- Education Required:
- Pharmacy (Doctorate)
