Pharm D Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary, Top Recruiters
Parul ThapaSenior Executive Content
A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D) career in India offers a range of opportunities and is growing in significance within the healthcare sector. Pharm D career provides various job opportunities such as Research Scientists, Regulatory Affairs Managers, Quality Assurance Managers, Pharmacists, etc. The Pharm D salary offered at entry-level positions ranges between INR 2.5 - 4 LPA, for mid-level profiles INR 4 - 6 LPA and for senior-level profiles INR 6 - 10 LPA.
Pharm D graduates can either go for jobs or pursue further options such as Clinical Research, Public Health, Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, Clinical Pharmacy, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacovigilance, etc. The top recruiters where candidates can kickstart their Pharm D career are Lupin, Pfizer, Cipla, AbbVie, Piramal, Johnson & Johnson, etc.
The popular colleges that offer Pharm D courses are SRIHER, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Andhra University), Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Parul University, etc.
Pharm D Career: Quick Facts
- Approximately 13,400 pharmacist positions are expected annually over the next ten years.
- The majority of Pharmacy graduates (91%) are employed in various private sector settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, and cosmetic and medical supply companies.
- Sixteen pharmaceutical industries are operating, with roughly 80% of their production being exported to more than sixty international markets, highlighting the significant economic impact of the pharmaceutical sector.
- In 2016, a 10-year growth of 5.6% from 312,500 to 330,100 pharmacists was projected by 2026.
Suggested Readings for Pharm D Career:
Pharm D Syllabus: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
Pharm D Courses: Fees, List, Admission
Pharm D: Admission 2024: Fees, Entrance Exam, Dates, Eligibility, Application, Selection
Top Career in Pharma D in India
Pursuing a Pharm D course in India opens up a wide array of career opportunities. These careers offer diverse paths within the pharmaceutical field, allowing Pharm D graduates to leverage their expertise in various professional settings.
Here are some of the top Pharmacy career options:
| Pharm D Jobs |
Description |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Pharmacists |
Work in hospitals and healthcare facilities, collaborating with doctors to optimize medication therapy and patient care. |
INR 2.9 LPA |
| Hospital Pharmacists |
Manage the dispensing of medications in hospitals, ensuring proper dosage and administration. |
INR 2.7 LPA |
| Community Pharmacists |
Operate or work in retail pharmacies, providing medication counselling and healthcare advice to the public. |
INR 2.2 LPA |
| Pharmaceutical Industry |
Engage in various roles such as drug development, regulatory affairs, quality control, and production in pharmaceutical companies. |
INR 2.5 LPA |
| Research Scientists |
Conduct research in pharmaceutical sciences, contributing to the development of new drugs and therapies. |
INR 9.1 LPA |
Pharm D Career Useful Links:
Career After M Pharma: A Complete Guide on Career Options After Master of Pharmacy
NIRF Ranking of Pharmacy Colleges in India
High Salary Career Options in Medical without NEET in India
Emerging Trends in Pharma D
The field of Pharmacy is continually evolving, and several emerging trends are shaping the future for Pharm D graduates.
Here are some key trends:
- Personalized Medicine: Tailoring medical treatments to individual patient characteristics.
- Telepharmacy: Remote provision of pharmaceutical care through telecommunications.
- Pharmacogenomics: Aims to develop effective, safe medications tailored to an individual's genetic makeup.
- AI and Machine Learning: AI applications in drug discovery, personalized medicine, and patient care.
- Digital Health and Mobile Health: Use of mobile devices and health apps to support health monitoring and medication adherence.
- Sustainability and Green Pharmacy: Focus on environmentally friendly practices in the production and disposal of pharmaceuticals.
Suggested Pharm D Career readings:
List of Top Pharmacy Entrance Exams in India
Top Pharmacy Colleges in India
Pharm D Scope in India: Jobs, Salary and Further Education
The scope of Pharm D in India is broadening significantly, offering numerous career opportunities across various sectors. Pharm D graduates are increasingly in demand as clinical pharmacists in hospitals, where they collaborate with physicians to optimize medication therapy and improve patient outcomes. They are also essential in community pharmacies, providing medication dispensing, patient counselling, and health advice.
Additionally, they can pursue careers in academia, teaching and mentoring future pharmacists, and engaging in research. With the growing emphasis on personalized medicine, telepharmacy, and advanced therapeutic areas, the role of Pharm D graduates is expanding, making them integral to the evolving healthcare landscape in India.
| Pharm D Career Scope |
Description |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceutical industry |
This includes research and development of new drugs, manufacturing, sales, and marketing of medications. |
| Healthcare |
Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities employ pharmacists to manage medication dispensing and patient care |
| Retail Pharmacy |
This is the most traditional setting for pharmacists, working in drugstores to dispense medications and provide advice to customers. |
| Government |
There are opportunities for pharmacists to work in government agencies, such as regulatory bodies or public health departments. |
Suggested Reading for Pharm D career:
Know more about Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharma)
Everything you need to know about Pharmacy Practice
Courses after Pharm D
After completing a Pharm D in India, there are several courses and career paths that one can consider to further enhance their knowledge and skills in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
Here are some options:
| Courses After Pharm D |
Description |
|---|---|
| Clinical Research courses |
Clinical Research courses focus on the design, management, and regulatory aspects of clinical trials and drug development. |
| Public Health courses |
Public Health courses focus on improving community health through education, research, and promotion of healthy lifestyles and disease prevention. |
| Pharmacology courses |
Pharmacology courses delve into the study of drugs, their effects on the body, mechanisms of action, and their use in treating diseases and improving health outcomes. |
| Clinical Pharmacy courses |
Clinical Pharmacy courses emphasize the application of pharmacotherapy principles in direct patient care, focusing on optimizing medication therapy, patient counselling, and ensuring safe and effective drug use. |
| Pharmaceutics courses |
Pharmaceutics courses cover the principles and techniques involved in the formulation, manufacturing, and delivery of pharmaceutical products, ensuring their safety, efficacy, and stability. |
| Pharmacognosy courses |
Pharmacognosy courses explore the identification, isolation, and characterization of natural products derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms, focusing on their therapeutic properties and applications in medicine. |
| Pharmacognosy courses explore the identification, isolation, and characterization of natural products derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms, focusing on their therapeutic properties and applications in medicine. |
Relevant Links for Pharma D Career:
Pharm D Top Recruiters in India
Graduates with a Pharm D degree possess diverse career prospects across multiple domains within the healthcare sector. Those who have completed the Pharm D course are presented with openings in pharmaceutical companies.
Some of the top Pharmaceutical companies that employ Pharm D graduates are as follows:
| Pharm D Top Recruiters |
|
|---|---|
| Lupin |
Pfizer |
| Cipla |
AbbVie |
| Piramal |
Johnson & Johnson |
| Sun Pharmaceuticals |
GlaxoSmithKline |
| Aurobindo Pharma |
Amgen |
| Dr Reddy’s Laboratories |
Merck |
| Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. |
Meijr Inc. |
| Zydus Cadila |
Walgreen Pharmacy |
| Glenmark Pharma |
Sanofi |
| Abbott Laboratories |
Emcure |
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Paramedical Courses After 12th
Top Colleges for Pharm D Placements
Top colleges for Pharm D in India prioritise practical learning, research, and industry internships, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry.
Candidates can check the table below to see the top colleges offering high median salaries:
| Pharm D Colleges |
Average Package |
|---|---|
| 8.39 LPA |
|
| 8.37 LPA |
|
| 7.49 LPA |
|
| 5.4 - 7.2 LPA |
|
| 6.5 LPA |
|
| 6.4 LPA |
|
| 6 LPA |
|
| 6 LPA |
|
| 5.49 LPA |
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Pharm D Career FAQs
Q. Is Pharm D a good career option?
A. Yes, choosing a career as a Pharm D can be a promising option for many reasons. Listed below are some reasons:
- Growing Healthcare Industry: With the continuous expansion of the healthcare sector, the demand for pharmacists remains strong.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: Pharm D graduates have a variety of career paths to choose from, including clinical pharmacy, community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, research, academia, and pharmaceutical industry roles.
- Job Stability and Good Salary: Pharmacists typically enjoy job stability and competitive salaries.
- Direct Patient Interaction: Pharmacists often work directly with patients, providing medication counselling, and health advice, and ensuring the safe use of prescriptions.
- Advanced Knowledge and Skills: The Pharm.D curriculum provides extensive education in pharmacology, therapeutics, and patient care, equipping graduates with the expertise needed to handle complex medication regimens and health conditions.
Recommended Links for Pharm D career:
B Pharma Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary, Top Recruiters/Companies
Career After B Pharma: A Complete Guide on Courses, Job Prospects and Salary
Q. Is Pharm D equal to Doctor?
A. Yes, a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) is considered a doctoral degree in the field of pharmacy, but it is different from other doctoral degrees like a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).
However, while the Pharm D is a doctoral degree that confers the title of Doctor and reflects a high level of education and expertise, it is distinct from other doctoral degrees like the MD or PhD in terms of focus, training, and professional roles.
Q. Is Pharm D in demand?
A. While the demand for Pharm.D graduates may not be uniformly high across all sectors and locations, yes, there are significant opportunities in clinical roles, specialized fields, and emerging areas of healthcare.
Prospective pharmacists should consider these trends and be prepared to adapt to changes in the healthcare landscape. Developing specialized skills and staying current with advancements in pharmacy practice can enhance employability and career prospects.
Q. Can we open a clinic after PharmD?
A. In India, pharmacists with a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree have increasing opportunities to engage in clinical roles, but opening a clinic specifically as a pharmacist involves navigating certain regulatory and professional considerations.
Candidates must ensure they are registered with the Pharmacy Council of India and have a valid license to practice as a pharmacist.
While opening a full-fledged clinic independently as a Pharm D graduate in India is currently limited by regulatory constraints, there are significant opportunities to establish practices that focus on medication management, patient education, and preventive care. Staying informed about regulatory changes and actively engaging in professional development can help candidates leverage these opportunities effectively.
Q. Are there any Pharm D doctors working in corporate hospitals?
A. Yes, PharmD graduates are increasingly finding opportunities to work in corporate hospitals in India. These hospitals recognize the value of clinical pharmacists in improving patient care and optimizing medication therapy.
Here are some key points regarding the roles and opportunities for PharmD professionals in corporate hospitals in India:
- Clinical Pharmacy Services:
Medication Therapy Management (MTM): Pharm.D. professionals manage and optimize medication regimens for patients, particularly those with chronic diseases or complex medication needs.
Patient Counseling: They provide counselling on the proper use of medications, potential side effects, and drug interactions.
Drug Information Services: Pharm.D. pharmacists offer drug information and support to physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers.
- Pharmacovigilance and Safety:
Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Monitoring: They track and report adverse drug reactions, contributing to patient safety and regulatory compliance.
Medication Reconciliation: Pharm.D. professionals ensure accuracy in patients' medication records, especially during transitions of care (admission, transfer, discharge).
- Education and Training:
Training Programs: They provide training and education to hospital staff, including doctors, nurses, and junior pharmacists, on various aspects of pharmacotherapy.
Patient Education: Conduct educational sessions for patients and caregivers about managing their medications and health conditions.
Q. Is a Pharma.D better than a BDS?
A. Pharm D courses provide in-depth training in pharmacology, therapeutics, and medication management, preparing graduates to work in various healthcare settings.
On the other hand, BDS courses provide comprehensive training in dentistry, covering diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases and disorders.
Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two course:
| Particulars |
Pharm D |
BDS |
|---|---|---|
| Pharm D Full Form |
Doctor of Pharmacy |
Bachelor of Dental Surgery |
| Pharm D Course Level |
Doctoral |
Undergraduate |
| Pharm D Course Duration |
6 years |
5 years |
| Pharm D Course Fees |
INR 2.3 Lakh - INR 9.6 Lakh |
INR 16,500 - INR 42.5 Lakh |
| Pharm D Course Admission Criteria |
Entrance-Based/Merit-Based |
Entrance-Based |
| Pharm D Course Eligibility Criteria |
Class 12 in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry and Biology subjects with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. |
Class 12 & NEET |
| Pharm D Entrance Exams |
TS EAMCET, AP EAMCET, KCET, GPAT, AP PGECET, TS PGECET, NEET, etc. |
NEET |
| Popular College for Pharm D Course |
JIPMER Puducherry, King George's Medical University, Banaras Hindu University, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, etc. |
KGMU, SRIHER, SRM Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, etc. |
| Pharm D Job Profiles |
Research Scientist, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Quality Assurance Manager, Medical Writer, Clinical Pharmacist, etc. |
Dentists, Dental officers in Defense Services, Dentists in Indian Railways, Lecturers, Researchers, etc. |
| Pharm D Average Salary |
INR 2.30 LPA - INR 10 LPA |
INR 3 LPA - INR 9 LPA |
| Pharm D Top Recruiters |
Lupin, Cipla, Piramal, Sun Pharmaceuticals, Aurobindo Pharma, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc., Zydus Cadila, etc. |
Hospitals, Dental Clinics, Educational Institutes, Dental Product Manufacturers etc. |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Mullana
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)Integral University - IUL
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (MSRUAS)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Pharmacy, Akurdi
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)DSU - Dayananda Sagar University
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)Annamalai University
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D. - Post Baccalaureate)Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)NIMS Institute of Pharmacy, NIMS University
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 days ago
Yes, Excel College of Pharmacy does offer PharmD at doctoral level. To get a seat for this course, students need to have passed Class 12 or equivalent followed by a Diploma in Pharmacy (DPharm) course or any other equivalent. Eligible students can apply offline by visiting the college campus. To kno
B
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 4 weeks ago
To find the latest cutoff information for the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program at Nirmala College of Pharmacy, Mangalagiri, follow these steps:
Admission Process
- Eligibility:10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/D. Pharmacy.
- Entrance Exam:Admission is based on EAMCET scores.
- Application:Fill ou
K
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 4 weeks ago
B Pharmacy is a 4-year undergraduate degree that provides a foundational understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, including drug formulation, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and quality control. B Pharmacy course prepares students for roles such as pharmacists, medical representatives, and quali
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Yes, a Pharm D course graduate can open a medical store, provided they meet the necessary legal and regulatory requirements. In India, opening a Pharmacy or Medical store requires a valid pharmacy license issued by the state drug control authority.
Pharm D course holders are qualified to run such bu
N
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
The average salary of the Pharm D course an get up to 3.5 LPA, while that of a B Pharmacy course can get up to INR 2.8 LPA.
Pharm D course graduates typically earn more than BPharm graduates due to the advanced level of education and clinical training they receive.
P
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
PharmD and BSc are distinct programs with different focuses, so one is not necessarily "better" than the other; it depends on career goals.
Pharm D course is a professional doctoral degree specifically designed for those aiming to pursue a career in clinical pharmacy, patient care, and medication ma
J
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Pharm D course graduates are not typically involved in the manufacturing of medicines. Their primary role revolves around the clinical aspects of pharmacy, such as medication therapy management, patient counselling, and ensuring the safe use of medications.
However, they may work closely with pharma
M
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
No, the Pharm D course is not equal to the MD.
PharmD is a professional doctorate in Pharmacy that focuses on drug therapy management, medication counselling, and patient care, preparing graduates to work as clinical pharmacists. It does not grant the authority to diagnose or treat medical condition
M
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Comparing the difficulty of PharmD and MBBS is subjective, as both are challenging in their ways, but they focus on different aspects of healthcare.
MBBS is a medical degree that involves extensive training in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases, requiring a deep understanding of human anato
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
No, the Pharm D course is not equivalent to a PhD. PharmD is a professional doctoral degree focused on Pharmacy practice, patient care, and medication management, preparing graduates to work as clinical pharmacists. It involves clinical training and emphasizes practical skills for patient-centered h
K
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Pharm D course is a highly specialised programme designed to prepare students for clinical pharmacy roles and patient-centric healthcare. Pharm D course is considered a good option for those passionate about healthcare, medication therapy management, and direct patient care.
Pharm D course offers ex
P
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
The choice between the Pharm D course and BPharm depends on your career aspirations. Pharm D course is a six-year programme that focuses on clinical pharmacy, equipping students to work as clinical pharmacists, and consultants, or pursue opportunities in research and academia. It also enables direct
L
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Yes, you can get admission to a Pharm. D (Doctor of Pharmacy) course if you meet the eligibility criteria. Here's what you need to know:
Eligibility:
- You must have completed your 12th grade with subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics.
- A minimum percentage in your 12th board exams is
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Having acquired a B.Pharm degree, it might be worthwhile pursuing a Pharm.D. to further one's advancement in the pharmacy profession. Pharm.D. courses are offered by many of the universities in the country to B.Pharm graduates.
Some of the most prominent of these universities are the University of S
U
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
PGP College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research offers a 6 years Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) course at the Doctorate level. The course offers admission to 30 students.
S
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
The Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program at Vignan Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology is a 6-year full-time course approved by the Pharmacy Council of India and affiliated with Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada. The eligibility criteria include a 10+2 qualification with Physic
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
A minimum KVSR Siddhartha College of Pharmaceutical Sciences cutoff of 100000 to 130000th rank was required for the Pharm D course in the AP EAPCET exam. The institute offers various UG and PG courses. AP EAPCET 2024 exam will be held in the first week of July 2024 (tentatively).
Courses - Cutoff Ran
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
Admission to Krupanidhi Colleges six-year professional Pharm D programme is available offline. Candidates who are interested must fulfill the requirements for eligibility, which include earning a D.Pharm degree from an accredited board or institution or finishing 10+2 with physics, chemistry and bio
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, at the doctorate level, Sengundhar College of Pharmacy provides a six years PharmD course to the students. The programme is spread over 12 semesters. Students seeking admission must have passing scores in their past qualifying degree or Intermediate exams. Interested students can visit the offi
V
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, Haldia Institute of Pharmacy offers PharmaD with a duration of six years. Admission to the courses is based on NEET and CET scores, followed by a counseling. However, applicants are required to pass Class 10 and Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics or Biology or D. Pharm. or Diploma
Contributor-Level 10
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Does Excel College of Pharmacy offer PharmD?