Program Overview
Introduction to the Pharmacy Program
The Pharmacy program is an interdisciplinary science that primarily relies on chemistry, biology, biochemistry, physical principles, and medical disciplines such as physiology and pharmacology.
Important Information for International Students
In Germany, Pharmacy studies are regulated by the "Approbationsordnung f僡 Apotheker". All lectures and exams are conducted in German. Knowledge of the German language is absolutely necessary for studying Pharmacy in Germany and for later approval as a licensed pharmacist.
Objectives, Content, and Structure
The Pharmacy program conveys content and skills that enable students to practice the profession of a pharmacist and to work scientifically.
Admission Requirements
The requirement for admission to the Pharmacy program is general or subject-specific higher education entrance qualification.
Key Areas of Study
The program focuses on the fundamentals of inorganic and organic chemistry, biochemistry, instrumental analytical techniques, and quality control of pharmaceuticals, as well as physical and pharmaceutical-technological issues, and the effects and side effects of pharmaceuticals in the context of clinical pharmacy and pharmacology.
The Pharmaceutical Education to Become a Pharmacist
The pharmaceutical education is divided into three sections:
- First and Second Sections: University Education in Basic and Main Studies
- Basic Study: 1st - 4th Semester The basic study (4 semesters) provides an in-depth introduction to chemistry, biology, and physics and conveys the basics of analytical-scientific work.
- Main Study: 5th - 8th Semester The 4-semester main study teaches specific pharmaceutical content, such as medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology.
- Third Section: Practical Training and Approval
- To obtain approval as a pharmacist, the practical year (12 months) must be completed after the study, and then the 3rd state examination must be taken.
- At least half of the practical year (at least 6 months) must be spent in a public pharmacy, while the other half can be completed in a pharmaceutical institution of your choice.
Career Prospects and Fields of Activity
The profession of a pharmacist offers a wide range of career prospects. Due to the highly interdisciplinary training in almost all areas of the natural sciences, the fields of application for pharmacists are very flexible.
Public Pharmacy
The focus of the work of most pharmacists is the public pharmacy, where the proper supply of the population with pharmaceuticals is paramount.
Hospital Pharmacy
Almost every hospital has an affiliated pharmacy responsible for supplying patients with pharmaceuticals, medical products, and pharmaceutical services.
Pharmaceutical and Chemical Industry
In the pharmaceutical or chemical industry, the search for new active ingredients, the development, production, and quality assurance of pharmaceuticals, as well as the creation of information about pharmaceuticals, are in the foreground.
Testing Institutions
Testing institutions (authorities or independent laboratories) are responsible for examining the labeling, composition, pharmaceutical quality, and bioavailability of pharmaceuticals.
Bundeswehr
In the medical service of the Bundeswehr, pharmacists are responsible for pharmaceutical matters, including the selection, development, procurement, storage, and maintenance of pharmaceuticals and medical products.
University: Science, Research, Education
In the university environment, pharmacists are involved in research and teaching, particularly in the context of the Pharmacy program. The focus of the work is on basic research and applied research on pharmaceuticals and medical products.
Expert in the Health Care System
Pharmacists with corresponding pharmaceutical know-how are sought after by institutions in the healthcare system, such as health insurance companies.
Education and Training, Teaching
In addition to training activities in pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, industry, testing institutions, Bundeswehr, administration, and universities, pharmacists can also be significantly involved in the education and teaching of pharmaceutical-technical and pharmaceutical-commercial students.
Environmental Analysis, Environmental Protection
The focus of environmental hygiene and environmental protection is on chemical-toxicological analysis, the evaluation of results, and the creation of expert opinions.
Conclusion
The Pharmacy program at the University of W僡zburg provides students with a comprehensive education in the field of pharmacy, preparing them for a wide range of career prospects in public pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, the pharmaceutical industry, and beyond.
