Pharmacist
What does a pharmacist do?
A pharmacist is an expert in medicines. They check and dispense prescriptions, make sure each medicine is safe and suitable for the person taking it, and explain how to use it properly. Pharmacists look out for interactions and side effects, advise on non-prescription products, give vaccinations where they are authorised to, and help people manage long-term conditions. In hospitals, they work alongside doctors and nurses, review patients' medicines and help choose the right treatment.
Pharmacists work in community pharmacies, public and private hospitals, aged care, and rural and remote health services. Others work in the pharmaceutical industry, research, regulation, defence health services and medicines policy. Community pharmacy can include evening and weekend shifts, while hospital roles may involve rosters.
Is a career as a pharmacist right for me?
A career in pharmacy may suit you if you have a strong interest in science and health and you enjoy helping people one conversation at a time. You need precision, because small mistakes with medicines matter, and be able to communicate with people from all backgrounds to explain complex information simply. You will also need to have a strong understanding of chemistry, biology and pharmacology as well as a commitment to ethics, privacy and patient safety.
Other skills and attributes that suit this career include:
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
An ability to work effectively and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
How to become a pharmacist
Every journey to study is individual, but the pathway to becoming a pharmacist in Australia is clearly set out. You complete an accredited pharmacy degree, then a supervised intern year, then the registration exams. Once you meet the Pharmacy Board of Australia's requirements, you register through Ahpra and can practise as a pharmacist.
Steps to become a pharmacist include:
- Complete an accredited pharmacy degree, such as UniSQ's Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours).
- Undertake a supervised intern training year after you graduate.
- Successfully complete the Australian Pharmacy Council registration examinations.
- Apply for general registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia through Ahpra.
- Build experience in community, hospital or another setting, and keep up continuing professional development.
Accreditation and qualifications
Pharmacy is a registered profession, so you must hold registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia, through Ahpra, to practise. Registration needs an approved pharmacy qualification, a supervised intern year and the Australian Pharmacy Council examinations, and registered pharmacists must meet ongoing professional development requirements.
UniSQ's Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) has been granted accreditation with conditions by the Australian Pharmacy Council.
How long does it take to become a pharmacist?
The Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) takes four years of full-time study to complete. From 2028, eligible UniSQ students can also choose an accelerated three-year pathway and reach their career goals sooner.
After you graduate, you complete a supervised intern year and the registration exams before you can register. On the four-year degree, that usually means around five years from starting university to practising as a registered pharmacist.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Launch your rewarding career in pharmacy with UniSQ's pharmacy degree, building the medication management, clinical decision-making and patient care skills needed to make a difference in communities.
Responsibilities and work settings
Checking and dispensing prescriptions accurately and safely.
Counselling patients on how to take their medicines and manage side effects.
Reviewing medicine use for people with complex or long-term conditions.
Advising doctors, nurses and other health professionals on treatment choices.
Providing services such as vaccinations and medication reviews, where authorised.
Public hospitals and health services
Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices
Aged care providers
Research institutes and research centres
Community health organisations
Defence forces and defence contractors
Manufacturing and industrial companies
Pharmacist FAQs
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