Question 1

Why should I study a pharmacy course?

Accepted Answer

Studying a pharmacy course helps you understand how medicines work in the body and how they treat or prevent illnesses. As a pharmacist, you can make a big difference in people's lives by providing advice on medications and ensuring they are used safely. If you enjoy science, problem-solving, and working with others, a pharmacy course could be a great choice for you.

Question 2

Which pharmacy course should I choose?

Accepted Answer

The course you choose depends on your career goals. If you want to become a pharmacist, you’ll need to complete a Bachelor of Pharmacy. If you have an undergraduate degree, you may like to expand your expertise with a postgraduate pharmacy course.

If you're not yet sure or want to explore the field more, starting with a a single subject, such as Fundamentals of Pharmacology, could be a good idea.

Open Universities Australia offers many course options, and you can compare courses to find the right fit. Other courses that may be of interest include: chemistry courses, public health courses, nursing courses, and management courses.

Question 3

What will I learn in a pharmacy course?

Accepted Answer

In a pharmacy course, you’ll learn about how medicines work in the body, how they treat different conditions, and how to safely manage medications. You'll study subjects like human anatomy, chemistry, drug interactions, and healthcare systems. You’ll also learn how to work with patients and healthcare professionals to provide the best care possible.

Question 4

What are the entry requirements?

Accepted Answer

The entry requirements for a pharmacy course vary by university and course level. For undergraduate pharmacy courses, you typically need a high school diploma with a strong focus on subjects like chemistry, biology, and mathematics. You’ll also need the required ATAR. Some courses might require additional tests or interviews.

Check the specific course details to know the exact requirements or get in touch and we can help guide you. If you don’t have the necessary ATAR, we may be able to help you get in anyway through a single subject entry pathway.

Question 5

What career opportunities can I explore after studying a pharmacy course?

Accepted Answer

After studying a pharmacy course, you can work in various settings, including:

Community pharmacies
Hospitals
Research and development departments
Pharmaceutical companies
Public health organisations
Academia

You can also choose to specialise in an area like clinical pharmacy, drug safety, or even work in policy and healthcare management.

Read more about a day in the life of a pharmacist for inspiration.

Question 6

How long does it take to become a pharmacist?

Accepted Answer

Becoming a pharmacist typically takes about four years of study in an undergraduate pharmacy degree, followed by a period of practical training, often known as a &ldquo;pre-registration&rdquo; year. Some students may take longer if they pursue further study or specialise in certain areas.

Question 7

How do I enrol?

Accepted Answer

Unlike when you study through a traditional university, you can enrol you in most of the undergraduate subjects available through our website instantly. Enrol in the subjects you’re interested in, and as soon as your study materials arrive, you can start learning online.

As you start completing your subjects, you’ll eventually need to apply to your uni to formally enter your degree. Enrolling in subjects is a great way of becoming eligible and applying successfully. Check out the Registering in this degree section on the degree page you're interested in for more information.

Postgraduate subjects are different. Most of them are restricted, meaning you’ll have to apply for entry and be accepted before you can start studying online. You’ll find information about the application process on the postgraduate degree page that you’re interested in.

Enrolling is easy. You can enrol online or over the phone with a student advisor.

Pharmacy courses

Introduction to Pharmacy