It typically takes four years to become a pharmacist in Canada after completing a bachelor's degree.
The Path to Becoming a Pharmacist in Canada:
- Bachelor's Degree: You must first earn a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, such as biology, chemistry, or pharmacy.
- Pharmacy School: After completing your bachelor's degree, you need to apply to and be accepted into a four-year Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program at a Canadian university.
- Pharmacy Practice Residency: Upon graduation from pharmacy school, you can choose to complete a residency program, which is a one-year, full-time, supervised training program in a specific area of pharmacy practice.
- Licensing Exam: To practice pharmacy in Canada, you must pass the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) licensing exam.
Important Considerations:
- Program Length: While the PharmD program typically takes four years, some programs may offer accelerated options.
- Admission Requirements: Each pharmacy school in Canada has its own specific admission requirements. These requirements often include a minimum GPA, prerequisite courses, and letters of recommendation.
- Licensing: Once you graduate from pharmacy school and complete a residency program (if applicable), you must register with the provincial or territorial regulatory body to practice pharmacy in Canada.
