Pharmacy Studies Abroad 2025 | Conditions and Scholarships

Studying Pharmacy Abroad: A Pathway to a Lucrative Career

Pharmacy, like other medical fields, is considered one of the most financially rewarding professions in many countries worldwide. This is why many Iranian students aspire to continue their education at the world’s top pharmacy universities. Pursuing a pharmacy degree abroad can pave the way for academic and professional success, ensuring long-term career growth. Numerous universities across the globe offer comprehensive pharmacy programs, providing students with ample opportunities to excel in this field.

Before applying, prospective students must carefully review the admission requirements and necessary documents for universities recognized by Iran’s Ministry of Health. Selecting the right university and academic program plays a crucial role in shaping one’s future career and can significantly impact the trajectory of one’s life. To learn more about fully funded pharmacy scholarships, stay with us until the end of this article by Elm Vira.

An Overview of Pharmacy

Pharmacy serves as a bridge between medicine and chemistry. Students pursuing a pharmacy degree abroad generally follow three main career paths upon graduation.

1. Community Pharmacists: These professionals work in pharmacies, reviewing prescriptions issued by doctors

Specialized Branches of Pharmacy Abroad

After earning a general pharmacy degree from one of the world’s top pharmacy universities, graduates can enter the job market or pursue further specialization in a specific branch of pharmacy. Some of the most important specialized fields in pharmacy include:

• Pharmaceutical Economics and Management
• Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
• Clinical Pharmacy
• Traditional Pharmacy
• Nuclear Pharmacy
• Pharmaceutics (Pharmaceutical Technology)
• Drug Quality Control
• Pharmacognosy (Study of Medicinal Plants and Natural Compounds)
• Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology
• Pharmaceutical Biomaterials
• Toxicology
• Medicinal Chemistry

Studying Pharmacy Abroad

Each year, a large number of international students choose to study pharmacy abroad. Among them, Iranian students also seek opportunities to enroll in pharmacy programs in various countries. The strong job market and relatively high salaries for pharmacists worldwide have contributed to the increasing number of applicants pursuing this field.

Additionally, obtaining a student visa is generally easier compared to other types of visas, allowing students to apply for permanent residency and citizenship in their host country. However, students aspiring to study at the best pharmacy universities should not only be passionate about the field but also carefully consider their choice of university.

Academic Levels in Pharmacy

Selecting the right academic level for studying pharmacy abroad is crucial, as admission requirements and tuition fees can vary significantly between undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. Below, we will explore the structure of pharmacy education at different academic levels.

Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy

One of the primary academic levels for studying pharmacy abroad is the bachelor’s degree, which typically includes 44 core pharmacy credits. Some of the key subjects covered in this program include:

• Organic Chemistry I & II
• Biochemistry for Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Immunology
• Drug Classes and Mechanisms
• Drug Discovery and Development I & II
• Global and Cross-Cultural Health Issues
• Principles of Pathophysiology and Drug Action
• Drug Dosage Forms I & II
• Biochemistry for Pharmaceutical Sciences II

It is important to note that the number of credits per semester and the courses offered are predetermined. Additionally, students pursuing a pharmacy degree abroad should have a foundational background in areas such as verbal communication, quantitative reasoning, science, and information literacy. They may need to strengthen these skills through supplementary coursework.

Master’s Degree in Pharmacy

The master’s degree in pharmacy abroad is typically a two-year program requiring the completion of 62 credits. The number of credits per semester is fixed, and students must complete a specific set of courses each term.

First Semester Courses:

• Principles of Biology I (4 credits)
• General Chemistry with a Biological Perspective (5 credits)
• Collaborative Learning Seminar (3 credits)
• Applied Calculations I (3 credits)
• Pharmacy Orientation I (1 credit)

Second Semester Courses:

• Organic Chemistry I (4 credits)
• First-Year Composition (4 credits)
• Principles of Biology II (4 credits)
• Applied Calculations II (3 credits)

Third Semester Courses:

• Organic Chemistry II (4 credits)
• General Physics I (4 credits)
• Pharmacy Orientation II (1 credit)
• Introduction to Statistical Methods (3 credits)
• Anatomy and Physiology I (3 credits)

Final Semester Courses:

• Economics (3 credits)
• Immunology (3 credits)
• Introduction to Microbiology (4 credits)
• Biochemistry for Pharmaceutical Sciences (3 credits)
• Anatomy and Physiology II (3 credits)

The master’s degree in pharmacy provides students with advanced knowledge and prepares them for specialization or further research opportunities in the field.

Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) Abroad

The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program in the best pharmacy universities worldwide requires the completion of 133 to 137 core credits, out of which 85 to 89 credits are dedicated to coursework. The curriculum includes:

• Professional Laboratory I, II, III, IV
• Patient Consultation & Pharmacy Skills
• Principles of Pathophysiology & Drug Action
• Integrated Pharmacotherapy I, II, III
• Introduction to Patient-Centered Care
• Drug Dosage Forms I, II
• Healthcare Systems
• Introduction to Case Studies
• Pharmaceutical Calculations
• Principles of Pharmacokinetics
• Biochemistry for Pharmaceutical Sciences II
• Advanced Training Practicum I, II, III, IV
• Community Health Management, etc.

Requirements & Admission Criteria for Studying Pharmacy Abroad

If you plan to pursue a pharmacy degree abroad, you must familiarize yourself with the admission requirements. Most countries and top pharmacy universities conduct entrance examinations for students applying to different pharmacy programs.

At the bachelor’s level, there is usually no universal entrance exam, but some universities may require international applicants to pass specific tests. To verify the exact admission process, applicants should check the official websites of their target universities.

One of the most recognized international pharmacy entrance exams is the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT). Initially conducted in India, it later became an internationally accepted exam for admission to master’s degree programs in pharmacy across various countries.

General Admission Requirements for Pharmacy Programs Abroad

The common documents required for pharmacy studies abroad include:

• Academic transcripts & degrees based on the chosen program level
• Official transcripts (with certified translation)
• English language proficiency certificate (or another language certificate if required)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) (if required)
• Proof of Financial Support
• Student Visa for the destination country
• Valid Passport

These requirements may vary depending on the university and country of application, so it is essential to check the specific guidelines provided by each institution.

Pharmacy Specializations Abroad

In many countries, students do not necessarily need to have a pharmacy degree to apply for specialized pharmacy programs. Instead, they can enter from related disciplines, which are considered eligible fields for advanced pharmacy studies.

Studying at top pharmacy universities worldwide also provides students with exposure to biotechnology, allowing them to specialize in pharmaceutical biotechnology. This field is highly research-intensive, making it ideal for students with a passion for scientific exploration.

Graduates in this specialization can work in:

• Production of pharmaceutical raw materials
• Development of biological compounds
• Biological drug control
• Extraction of new bioactive substances from animal cells, fungi, bacteria, and microorganisms

Main Specializations in Pharmacy

Pharmacy has several branches and subfields, including:

• Drug & Cosmetic Product Control
• Pharmaceutics
• Toxicology
• Traditional Pharmacy
• Nuclear Pharmacy
• Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
• Pharmaceutical Economics & Management
• Pharmacognosy
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Clinical Pharmacy
• Nanotechnology in Pharmaceuticals
• Biomaterials in Pharmacy

Best Countries for Studying Pharmacy Abroad

Countries such as the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia have some of the best education systems and top-ranked pharmacy schools worldwide.

Pharmacy is a highly sought-after medical field, offering lucrative career prospects. Compared to medicine and dentistry, pharmacy studies are often shorter and more accessible while still providing high-income job opportunities.

One major concern for international students is choosing the best country for studying pharmacy. Admission policies vary:

• Some countries require entrance exams
• Others require students to first complete a bachelor’s degree in a related science field before progressing to pharmacy studies

Top Countries for Studying Pharmacy

1. Austria
2. USA
3. UK
4. Japan
5. Australia
6. Turkey
7. China
8. Russia

Each country has different requirements and processes, so it’s crucial to check specific admission policies before applying.

Studying Pharmacy in China

China is one of the best destinations for pursuing a pharmacy degree abroad. Pharmacy education in China is science-based, and to advance in this field, students generally need a Bachelor of Pharmacy (BS) degree.

Key Features of Pharmacy Education in China

• Courses include pharmacy management, laboratory experience, and drug distribution.
• Students are introduced to traditional pharmacy responsibilities.
• Master’s and Ph.D. students focus on drug discovery and pharmaceutical research.
• Clinical pharmacy programs are available.
• Affordable tuition fees, various scholarship opportunities, and a high number of medical universities make China a top choice.

Top Pharmacy Universities in China

1. Peking University – Global Rank: 32
2. Fudan University – Global Rank: 33
3. China Pharmaceutical University – Global Rank: 51100
4. Nanjing University – Global Rank: 51100
5. Shanghai Jiao Tong University – Global Rank: 51100
6. Sichuan University – Global Rank: 51100
7. Sun Yat-sen University – Global Rank: 51100
8. Tsinghua University – Global Rank: 51100
9. Zhejiang University – Global Rank: 51100
10. Harbin University of Science and Technology (HUST) – Global Rank: 151200

Studying Pharmacy in Russia

Russia is one of the most affordable countries for studying pharmacy abroad, with tuition fees starting from $1,750 per year.

Key Features of Pharmacy Education in Russia

• Pharmacy programs are recognized by Iran’s Ministry of Health.
• The duration of the pharmacy program is five years.
• Affordable tuition fees compared to Western countries.
• Courses are offered in both English and Russian, but Russian-taught programs may require one year of preparatory language studies.

Top Pharmacy Universities in Russia

1. Kazan Federal University
2. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (Pirogov RNRMU), Moscow
3. Lomonosov Moscow State University
4. RUDN University (Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia), Moscow

Each university offers high-quality medical education and access to advanced pharmaceutical research.

Studying Pharmacy in Turkey

In recent years, studying pharmacy in Turkey has become increasingly popular. Pharmacy is the third most popular medical field in Turkey, after medicine and dentistry. Many students pursue this field not only for its potential financial rewards but also out of a deep interest in subjects like chemistry and biology.

Key Features of Pharmacy Education in Turkey

• Selective admission: Turkey only accepts a limited number of pharmacy students each year, with a specific quota for international students.
• High-quality education: The pharmacy programs are well-regarded for their academic rigor, ensuring a robust educational foundation in pharmaceutical sciences.
• Affordable living costs: The cost of living in Turkey is lower compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for international students.

Top Pharmacy Universities in Turkey

1. İstinye University
2. Medipol University
3. Bahçeşehir University
4. Biruni University
5. Yeni Yüzyıl University

Top Pharmacy Universities in the World (2024 QS Ranking)

According to the QS World University Rankings, the following universities are ranked among the best for pharmacy in the world:

1. Monash University
2. Harvard University
3. University of Oxford
4. University College London (UCL)
5. University of Nottingham
6. University of Cambridge
7. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
8. University of Toronto
9. Johns Hopkins University
10. University of California
11. National University of Singapore (NUS)
12. Leiden University
13. The University of Manchester
14. The University of Sydney
15. University of Copenhagen
16. King’s College London
17. Yale University

These universities offer comprehensive pharmaceutical programs with opportunities for cutting-edge research and global collaborations in the field.

Costs of Studying Pharmacy Abroad

As you may know, the cost of studying and living varies from one country to another. Additionally, the presence of both public and private universities in different countries leads to differences in tuition fees. Private universities generally have higher tuition compared to public institutions. Countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States are considered advanced in the field of pharmacy education, but the cost of living and tuition fees in these countries can be very high.

For example, the tuition fee for studying pharmacy at the University of Oxford in the UK at the undergraduate level is approximately 34,000 pounds per year. In Canada, the cost of studying pharmacy is somewhat more affordable, and students also have access to excellent scholarship opportunities, making it an attractive option for international students.

Job Prospects for Pharmacy Graduates Abroad

Some might assume that pharmacy graduates only work in pharmacies, but this is far from the truth. The career opportunities for pharmacy graduates are vast, both abroad and in countries like Iran. Here are some of the fields where pharmacy graduates can work:

• Cosmetic and Personal Care Products Manufacturing
• Pharmaceutical Production and Quality Control
• Healthcare and Medical Education
• Administrative Roles in Health Ministries
• Research and Laboratory Work

It’s important to note that if you study pharmacy at some of the best universities in the world, you’ll not only gain a robust education but also have access to better career opportunities globally.

Pharmacists’ Income in Different Countries

For those seeking to migrate, the potential income in different countries plays a crucial role in their decision-making process, as many aim for better living standards abroad. As mentioned earlier, graduates from the best pharmacy schools worldwide can work in hospitals, pharmacies, or as pharmacy assistants or technicians. Below are the average incomes of pharmacists in various countries, though it’s important to note that these incomes can vary depending on the specialization within the pharmacy field:

• USA: $133,000
• Iceland: $106,000
• Australia: $88,000
• Switzerland: $83,000 – $127,000
• Canada: $80,000
• Sweden: $70,000
• UK: $57,000
• Germany: $45,000
• Ireland: $47,000

Conclusion

Pharmacy is one of the most popular fields of study worldwide. By studying pharmacy abroad, individuals can engage in the preparation and analysis of various medicines and research the effects of these drugs on the human body. As emphasized, pharmacy graduates can work in various fields beyond just pharmacies, including positions in hospitals, research labs, and healthcare institutions.

Countries like China, Russia, and Turkey are among the most suitable destinations for studying pharmacy, attracting many students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing pharmacy studies abroad, you can contact our immigration experts at Elm Vira Immigration Institute for more details about full scholarships and other relevant information. For further consultation on studying abroad, please visit our free consultation section.