How to Become a Pharmacist in Virginia

Becoming a pharmacist is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice, allowing you to play a vital role in the healthcare industry. In this guide, we'll discuss the steps and requirements to become a licensed pharmacist in Virginia, including education, examinations, and other essential factors to consider when pursuing this career path.

Steps to Become a Pharmacist in Virginia

To become a licensed pharmacist in Virginia, you must complete several steps, including education, examinations, and fulfilling other requirements set by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy.

1. Complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) Degree: The first step is to earn a Pharm.D. degree from an accredited college or school of pharmacy. The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) accredits pharmacy programs in the United States. A typical Pharm.D. program takes four years to complete and includes coursework in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, and pharmacy law, as well as experiential learning through clinical rotations.

2. Pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX): After completing your Pharm.D. degree, you must pass the NAPLEX, a computer-based exam that tests your knowledge of pharmacy practice and ensures that you're ready to begin your career as a pharmacist. The exam consists of 250 questions, with a minimum passing scaled score of 75.

3. Pass the Virginia Pharmacy Law Exam (MPJE): In addition to the NAPLEX, you must pass the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) for Virginia. The MPJE is a computer-based exam that tests your knowledge of federal and state-specific pharmacy laws and regulations. The exam consists of 120 questions, with a minimum passing scaled score of 75.

4. Complete an Internship: Virginia requires aspiring pharmacists to complete a minimum of 1,500 hours of internship experience under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This practical experience allows you to apply the knowledge you've gained in your Pharm.D. program to real-life pharmacy settings.

5. Apply for Licensure: Once you've completed the educational requirements, passed the required exams, and fulfilled the internship hours, you can apply for licensure with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. The Board will review your application and, if all requirements are met, issue your pharmacist license.

Advantages of Becoming a Pharmacist in Virginia

Becoming a pharmacist in Virginia offers several benefits, including:

1. Growing Demand: The need for pharmacists is expected to continue growing as the population ages and the demand for prescription medications increases.

2. Competitive Salary: Pharmacists typically earn a competitive salary, making it an attractive career choice from a financial perspective.

3. Opportunities for Specialization: As a pharmacist, you can choose to specialize in various areas, such as oncology, pediatrics, or nuclear pharmacy, allowing you to tailor your career to your interests and expertise.

4. Community Impact: Pharmacists play a vital role in their communities, providing essential healthcare services and guidance to patients, contributing to improved public health outcomes.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and meeting the requirements set by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, you can embark on a rewarding career as a licensed pharmacist in Virginia.