Pre-Pharmacy

As "medication experts," pharmacists are concerned with safeguarding the public's health in matters relating to medication distribution and use as well as disease state management. Learn more about the classes you need to prepare for a pharmacy school or college. Also use the links below to learn information about pharmacy schools and general information about pharmacy.

What is the national standardized test?

The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT®) was retired on January 10, 2024.  Effective December 2, 2024, Official Transcripts and Personal
Score Reports are no longer available.

What is the Clinical Competency expectation?

Students should have a significant number of pharmacy experience hours, but there is no specific number of hours or a unified rubric. Pre-Pharm students most commonly gain pharmacy experience through Pharmacy Technician work. You can also gain experience from hospital, research, or compound pharmacy settings. Be sure to document your hours!

Pharmacy schools are interested in knowing why you chose pharmacy over other healthcare professions. As you gain pharmacy experience, continuously reflect in writing on how the experience(s) shaped your decision to pursue pharmacy. This practice will also help you when you are applying to pharmacy school!

What else should I know?

You must learn and incorporate the Association of American Medical Colleges Core Competencies for Entering Medical Students in your prerequisite courses and extracurricular activities. Even though this says medical students, these competencies will help you too! Pharmacy schools/programs will assess you on these professional skills! 

More information, such as what you should major in or how to handle repeats or withdrawals at UM-Dearborn, can be found in our FAQ section.