Many newly registered pharmacists report huge signing bonuses in more agricultural or in demand areas |
With an all increasing demand for health care, more and more students are considering a career as a pharmacist. Before you make that decision, you should become aware of the requirements and career opportunities nearby for pharmacists. According to a May 2008 BLS report, there are 266,410 pharmacists in the Partnership States who earn an average of $50.13/hour ($104,620 annually). Salaries vary based on geographical place, employer, and other factors. Many newly registered pharmacists report huge signing bonuses in more agricultural or in demand areas. As opportunity passes, pharmacists continue to be given more and more responsibilities within the health system. Contrary to popular belief, a pharmacist\'s job does not constitute counting pills. Barely 62% of pharmacists hold traditional community (retail) pharmacy positions (BLS). Other moving pharmacy careers include positions in a clinical setting (administering drugs as a part of a medical unite), a research lab, a government agency (e.g. poison control), a university, a corporation, a nuclear pharmacy (compounding and dispensing of radioactive materials for use in atomic medicine procedures), and many others. Unlike other medical professional careers, druggist's has a diverse range of careers available. In addition, most pharmacists do not need any residency practice for most careers (you will need 1-2 years of residency experience to become a clinical pusher). Pharmacy careers expect a whopping 22% growth in jobs available from 2006 to 2016 (May 2008 report). With the population aging and filled prescriptions increasing, the demand for pharmacists is projected to grow in all pharmacy settings. Although job placement varies based on geographical location, pharmacists will have little trouble finding a job. |