Pharmacists work with patients and health care professionals to “provide information and education regarding medication” and are concerned with “disease state management and safe guarding the public’s health in matters relating to medication distribution and use” (Pharmcas.org).

Pre-pharmacy students complete approximately three years of study at UMBC, completing preparation coursework for pharmacy school. Students complete their professional studies in pharmacy at another institution and do not receive degrees from UMBC.

Students also have the option of remaining at UMBC to earn a bachelor’s degree before moving on to professional studies in pharmacy at another institution. There are an increasing number of students pursuing this option, allowing students to assemble a more competitive portfolio for admission.

The Office for Academic and Pre-Professional Advising  can assist students interested in pursuing the pre-pharmacy curriculum.

The coursework below meets the requirements for most nationally accredited pharmacy programs. Students should become familiar with the requirements of the school(s) from which they eventually wish to obtain their professional degree.