Last Updated on December 29, 2022

Pharmacy deals with the study of Health Sciences related to drug information, medical formulations, and clinical services to create a better living. A Master’s degree in Pharmacy combines this knowledge with practical experience creating experts in this field. Canada, with its well-developed resources and opportunities, serves to be an ideal destination for international students who wish to pursue an MS in Pharmacy.

All students in the schools of pharmacy in canada are taught to take an active part in research to make an impact on the world surrounding them. However, for you, it is also beneficial as it will be an added point for your resume, if you choose to proceed with a PhD program. As a student of pharmacy, you will be required to complete scientific papers related to your research.

Right here on infolearners, you are privy to a litany of relevant information on best province for pharmacists in canada, best pharmacy schools in canada, masters in pharmacy in canada, pharmacy schools in canada requirements, best place to be a pharmacist, foreign pharmacist in canada, best pharmacy schools in the world, and so much more. Take out time to visit our catalog for more information on similar topics.

What exactly is Pharmacy?

According to Wikipedia, Pharmacy is the science and technology of preparing, distributing and testing medicines and providing additional clinical services.

Thus, it is a health profession that links health sciences with pharmaceutical sciences and aims to ensure drug use is safe, effective at affordable prices.

Basically, Professional practice has become more clinical because most drugs are currently manufactured by the pharmaceutical industry.

And by definition, the pharmacy is categorized as a community or institution providing direct care to patients. In fact, the institutional pharmacy community is a clinical pharmacy.

Practically speaking, Pharmacy encompasses drug collection and distribution, modern health care services, and clinical services. And also, drug safety, efficacy reviews, and drug information provision.

Now, talking about who a pharmacist is, he is an expert in drug therapy and the most important health professionals who direct the use of the drug for the benefit of patients.

What does a pharmacist do?

Although Pharmacy is a tasking and challenging field of study it is very interesting, its role in the world cannot be overemphasized. Most importantly, a pharmacist’s core aim is to improve and save the lives of people through the use of medications.

Moreover, a Pharmacist is legally and professionally qualified to prepare and dispense medical drugs, although the perform other functions.

As a pharmacist, apart from preparing and dispensing quality medical drugs, you are to make correct prescription of drugs to handle a particular medical issue. And also follow due process in delivering them according to the law.

Secondly, you can advise patients about medicines, including how to take them, what reactions may occur and answering patients’ questions.

Then, you are also to provide patients with information on the effect of smoking cessation, blood pressure measurement, and cholesterol management.

Furthermore, a pharmacist supervises the production and preparation of medicines and assessments of the quality of medicines before they are supplied to patients from pharmaceutical manufacturers.

How long does it take to get a Pharmacy degree?

Completing Pharm.D. program time differs according to programs. But mainly, most programs take four years to complete.

Hence, if you completed a bachelor’s degree in a related field, you will spend four years for a professional study at a pharmacy school. However, if you enroll for a pharmacy program after high school, it will take six years to get a Pharmacy degree.

For Bachelors Degree Program

Pharmacy students can complete the pre-pharmacy curriculum in the bachelor’s degree program to meet the requirements for admission to the Faculty of Pharmacy.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, some pharmacy doctoral programs require a four-year degree to enroll and others need two or three years of study to complete previous courses.

However, Undergraduate students must pass the acceptance test of the Faculty of Pharmacy to enter the Faculty of Pharmacy.

Note, the test assesses the student’s knowledge of biology and chemistry and measures his verbal ability, reading comprehension and quantitative skills. The exam also includes a written article.

Doctor of Pharmacy Programs

A licensed pharmacy doctor may be required by the state board from applicants. The postgraduate program takes four years to complete.

However, Doctoral programs in pharmacy also include training courses focused on disease management, such as hematology, pain management, oncology, central nervous system, and infectious diseases.

Furthermore, it includes internships or professional practice experience to provide students with practical experience in a variety of locations, including pharmacies and community hospitals.

What is the Pharmacy Salary Like?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for pharmacists in 2011 was $113,390 and the mean annual earnings were $112,160.

In 2017, pharmacists earned a median wage of $124,000. Half of all pharmacists earned more than this, and half earned less. High earners made nearly $160,000, while pharmacists at the bottom of the salary scale brought home less than $90,000.

The average salary for pharmacists has increased, just as the cost of pharmacy education also continues to rise.

According to the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education’s piece on Pharmacy Student Debt and Return on Investment of a Pharmacy Education, numbers show that the average tuition cost for pharmacy school has risen 54 percent in the last decade with the combined average yearly tuition rates to obtain training at a public or private school are roughly $25,000.

Pharmacy schools in canada requirements

To study in Canada, international applicants are required to submit additional documents, proof of language proficiency, and a study permit. The details of eligibility and admissions process for masters in pharmacy in Canada are as follows:

Where to apply:

International applicants can apply online through university-specific admission portals or online form.

Eligibility for Masters in Pharmacy in Canada

• Completion of four-year bachelor’s in science in a relevant field.
• The minimum GPA requirements must be fulfilled.
• Standardized test scores, GRE, for masters applicants are not required.

NOTE: Applicants must note that the average percentage score required for admissions in the PG program varies among the universities. It is important that applicants visit the course pages for the university selected.

University Specific Eligibility Criteria and Application Requirements

Best Province For Pharmacists In Canada

• British Columbia

• Saskatchewan

• Alberta, Manitoba

• Nova Scotia

• New Brunswick

• Ontario

Best pharmacy schools in Canada

1. University of Toronto

Established in 1827, the University of Toronto is one of the oldest universities in Canada. With more than 64,000 graduate alumni across courses, it is one of the most prestigious academic institutions in Canada.

You can choose from several master’s programs related to in pharmacy field like:

• MSc in Pharmacology
• MSc in Pharmaceutical Science
• MSc in Clinical Pharmacology
• PharmD MBA

The eligibility criteria for the University of Toronto is to have a minimum of Grade B in bachelor along with higher TOEFL scores.

2. University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia or UBC has been one of the preferable M Pharm colleges in Canada. Active since 1915, UBC has been at the forefront of pharmacy innovations through academic research and providing international students with a platform to gain knowledge.

The entire focus of the MPharm program with UBC is on the research side with knowledgeable faculty. If you are looking to apply for a master of Pharmacy in Canada, then UBC should be at the top of the list. For international students, applying for an M.Pharma program in UBC needs a score of 7 or higher in the IELTS.

You can also opt for the TOEFL exam with a score greater than or equal to 100. Such English proficiency tests also help international students to apply for different scholarships and financial aid. UBC also helps students through financial aid, which can go up to $21,000.

3. University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is a public research and academic institution located in Ontario. It is one of the oldest universities in Canada that provides a master’s program in Pharmacy. Every year more than 42,000 students enroll for different courses at the University of Waterloo.

It is a reputed university with more than 220,000 alumni across 151 countries and has enabled several students to have fantastic professional careers. For students looking to pursue a master’s in Pharmacy in Canada, the University of Waterloo provides programs like:

• Drug Discovery
• Vaccine Delivery Systems
• Nanomedicine
• Pharmacotherapy Evaluation
• Molecular Pharmacology
• Rational Drug Design and Medicinal Chemistry
• Pharmacokinetics
• Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology
• Clinical Marketing
• Pharmacoepidemiology

The minimum eligibility criteria for the master’s program in Pharmacy at the University of Waterloo is 78% in the undergraduate honors.

4. University of Alberta

Founded in 1908, it is one of the most popular public research universities in Canada. The University of Alberta provides a full-time Master’s in Pharmacy with a two-year term and two four-month terms of practical Pharmacy practice. If you want to apply for the program at the University of Alberta, you need to have a score of 550 for a paper-based exam, 213 for a computer-based test, and 88 for an online exam. You can also apply for admission with an IELTS score of 6.5 with a four-year undergraduate degree and a minimum GPA of 3.

Apart from an excellent academic record, the admission requirements also include a statement of purpose, transcripts, resume, certificate of previous work experience, and letter of recommendation. The university also provides scholarships for international students along with bursaries and other forms of financial aid.

5. University of Saskatchewan

It is another public research university founded back in 1907, which is popular for its pharmacy programs. Located right in the middle of Saskatoon, the university offers two programs for masters in pharmaceutical sciences in Canada.

The eligibility criteria for any student looking to take admission at the University of Saskatchewan needs to have a minimum of 70% in the undergraduate honors. The English proficiency tests required for the admissions involve a score of 6-6.5 for the IELTS and 86 for TOEFL.

6. Western University

Western University is a private organization with two major campuses, one in London and another in Canada. It is one of the most prestigious universities in Canada that provides research-intensive courses. One of the most popular programs is a masters in Physiology and Pharmacology, which is a two-year program.

The eligibility criteria for admissions at the Western University is a minimum of 80% in the last two years of the undergraduate program. You will also need an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 and a TOEFL score of 100 for admissions in the MPharm programs at Western University.

7. University of Manitoba

The University of Manitoba is the first university from western Canada established back in 1877. It has been at the forefront of drug research, medicine discovery, and human rights. The university offers a Master’s of Science in Pharmacology and Therapeutics, which is a full-time degree program of two years.

The eligibility criteria for admission in a master’s degree at the University of Manitoba is a GPA score of 3 with an IELTS score of 6-6.5 or a TOEFL score of 86. You will also need two letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and other documents for the completion of admissions applications.

8. Memorial University of Newfoundland

The Memorial University of Newfoundland is a public university in Newfoundland and has satellite campuses in corner brook. It offers masters in Pharmacy with several programs like:

• Medicinal Chemistry
• Mechanisms of Toxicity
• Pharmacology-Pharmacokinetics
• Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
• Pharmacoepidemiology

The eligibility criteria for admissions at the Memorial University of Newfoundland is a minimum average of 75% marks in the undergraduate program with high TOEFL scores.

9. McGill University

McGill University has been a leading research institution for drug discovery and medicinal trials. With alumni across 150 countries, it is one of the most attractive options for several international students. The university offers a full-time master’s program in Pharmacology and Therapeutics. The eligibility criteria for admissions in McGill University is a GPA of 3 with good GRE scores or IELTS of 6.5.

10. Dalhousie University

One of the oldest universities in Canada, it is the perfect choice for students looking to research in the field of drug discovery. Dalhousie University has been promoting research into cancer drugs, cardiovascular medicines, and several others. It offers full-time programs in Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Science with a two-year term for each of them.

Best pharmacy schools in the world

University of Sydney

Acceptance Rate: 50%

Graduation Rate: 85%

Employability Rate: 88%

Location: Sydney, Australia

The University of Sydney is one of the best schools for pharmacy undergraduate. This School of Pharmacy provides bachelor’s and master’s degrees and graduate certificates in pharmacy practice and evidence-based complementary medicines. It offers research degrees focused on:

• Cancer
• Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes
• Health Services and Patient Safety
• Mental Health
• Respiratory and Infectious Diseases

The university also serves as a National Alliance for Pharmacy Education intern provider, allowing students to embark on supplemental training that enhances their skills as pharmacists.

Degree: 

BPharm

University of Milan

Acceptance Rate: 56%

Graduation Rate: 78%

Employability Rate: 67%

Location: Milan, Italy

Next in the Best Pharmacy Schools in the World is the University of Milan. This university provides undergraduate and master’s degree programs in Milan.

However, these programs extend to more than five years and it enables students to gain the skills and qualifications required to enroll in medical school.

Moreso, apart from the opportunities offered by this school, it is well known for its high curriculum and furthermore encourages students to develop scientific skills.

Degree:

Single-cycle Bachelor’s and Master’s

Ohio State University

Acceptance Rate: 54

Graduation Rate: 84

Employability Rate: 94

Location: Columbus, Ohio, USA

Founded in 1870, Ohio State is the highest-ranked public university in Ohio and one of the best schools for pharmacy students in the world.

Basically, the school offers world-class graduate and undergraduate and PharmD programs in the medical field. Note, Ohio PharmD Program is ranked as one of the best pharmacy colleges in the United States and is one of the most modern international medical institutions.

Hence, Ohio State University is one of the best and a public research university in Columbus, Ohio. Furthermore, the school provides tutelage in its faculties which students benefit from.

Degree Offered:

PharmD

University of Helsinki

Acceptance Rate: 17%

Graduation Rate: 88%

Employability Rate: 97%

Location: Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1640, The University of Helsinki is the oldest and largest institution of academic education in Finland and among the best pharmacy schools in the world for both national and international students.

Basically, the university has various schools of studies including schools of pharmacy. Note, their school of pharmacy offers quality pharmacy courses that help to equip students in the medical field. This feature qualifies it as one of the best college pharmacy programs

Just like Milan, the Helsinki Pharmacy program is a 5-year combination of undergraduate and master’s studies.

Like Milan, you will also need to be bilingual; Most of the courses are in Finnish, though some courses are taught in English.

Degree: Single-cycle Bachelor’s and Master’s

University of California, San Francisco

Acceptance Rate: 66%

Graduation Rate: 79%

Employability Rate: 76%

Location: San Francisco, California, USA

Established in 1872, the University of California, School of Pharmacy is one of the best schools of pharmacy in the world. Also, the school offers the best college pharmacy programs to both national and international students.

In fact, for 39 consecutive years, it has been the number 1 pharmacy school by NIH funding. Note, it is the oldest pharmacy school in California and the western United States.

Hence, students are also strongly encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities. These activities include participating in community service initiatives, attending professional pharmacy organizations and participating in health and science activities on campus.

Degree:

• PharmD
• Ph.D. Programs
• Pharmaceutical Chemistry
• Clinical Pharmacy

Copenhagen University

Acceptance Rate: 50%

Graduation Rate: 89%

Employability Rate: 90%

Location: Copenhagen, Denmark

The UCPH School of Pharmaceutical Sciences is one of the best schools of pharmacy in the world. Basically, this school is a part of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen.

Hence, located at the university’s North Campus, the school is organized into two departments. However, the school offers various Pharmacy programs including BPharm which is a 3-years program.

Note, the school provides other opportunities for students to help them customize their learning experience. Interestingly, most courses are taught in Danish, though most of the teaching materials are in English. In order to obtain a registered medical status, students must enroll in an additional two-year master’s degree program.

Degree:

• MSc program
• BSc and MSc program in Danish
• Continuing and professional education – part-time master program
• BPharm
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Pharmaceutical Science

Manchester University

Acceptance Rate: 28%

Graduation Rate: 46%

Employability Rate: 87%

Location: Manchester, UK

Established in 2004, Manchester University after been formed by the merging of the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology and the Victoria University of Manchester has proven to be one of the best schools that offer pharmacy programs.

Basically, Manchester University offers MPharm programs that cover theoretical and practical grounding in pharmacy for students pursuing a career in the field. Moreso, the offer Doctor of Pharmacy Program.

Note, with Manchester university pharmacy degree you can get a hands-on experience of the community.

Despite direct competition from other pharmacy colleges in the UK, such as Nottingham, Cardiff, and Queens, Manchester makes the list due to its global reputation for academic excellence and integrity.

Furthermore, it offers state-of-the-art educational facilities, including aseptic laboratories and SimMan patient labs, while taking care to take students to pharmacies and hospitals that are practical throughout their studies.

Degree:

• MPharm
• PharmD
• Master of Science in Pharmacogenomics

University of Toronto

Acceptance Rate: 43%

Graduation Rate: 93%

Employability Rate: 94%

Location: Toronto, Canada

Next in our list of the best pharmacy schools in the world is the University of Toronto known as Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy.

Basically, the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy is a pharmacy school is located on the northwestern corner of College Street and University Avenue.

However, the school offers a Doctor of Pharmacy program which opens the door to diverse and rewarding health-focused careers and is ranked as the top faculty of pharmacy in Canada and one of the top five in the world.

More so, the school offers a vibrant community of world-leading professionals and researchers and endless opportunities for growth.  

In addition to lectures, lab work, and clinical facilities, students are also encouraged to develop basic skills such as communication and problem-solving.

Degree: PharmD

University College London

Acceptance Rate:

Graduation Rate:

Employability Rate:

Location:  29-39 Brunswick Square, Bloomsbury, London WC1N 1AX, United Kingdom

Basically, the school offers a Master of Pharmacy which is a 4-year undergraduate degree. Note, they offer seven different taught postgraduate degrees (6 MSc degrees and one MRes).

Thus, the MPharm degree is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and is awarded by the University College London.

Practically, the students who have completed their pharmacy programs will be asked to take a year of pre-registration training, to sit the examination of the GPhC and register as a pharmacist in Britain.

Given its central location in central London, it’s also a great destination for students, as Covent Park, Regent’s Park and Kings Cross are just a stone’s throw away.

It is important to note that, British registration is recognized in other member states of the EU. Please take some time to read the GPhC’s Code of conduct for pharmacy students. The UCL School of Pharmacy is the pharmacy school of University College London.

Degree: Combined BPharm/MPharm

University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill Area)

Acceptance Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 90%

Employability Rate: 73%

Location: Chapel Hill / Asheville, North Carolina, USA

Founded in 1789, University of North Carolina, the School of Pharmacy has been among the best schools of pharmacy for undergraduate students. The school is a public research university in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with 17 campuses.

Basically, the school offers pharmacy programs that both national and international are eligible to enroll in.

However, among the claimants, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the only one to have held classes and graduated students as a public university in the eighteenth century.

Note, as one of the schools with the best college pharmacy programs in the United States, it’s no surprise that UNU’s pharmacy program cost is high.

Degree: PharmD

Monash University

Acceptance Rate: 40%

Graduation Rate: 79%

Employability Rate: 66%

Location: 381 Royal Parade, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia

Monash University was founded in 1881 as Victorian College of Pharmacy. It is known as one of the best pharmacy schools in the World that offers various courses in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science.

Basically, the school offers postgraduate degrees by coursework or research, from graduate diploma through to Ph.D. level.

Degree: Combine BPharm / MPharm

University of Oxford

Acceptance Rate: 18%

Graduation Rate: 64%

Employability Rate: 91%

The University of Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and the world’s second-oldest university in continuous operation after the University of Bologna collegiate research university in Oxford, England.

Basically, the Oxford College of Pharmacy provides a scholarly environment to the students with strong industrial links. Note, this best college for pharmacy always aimed at developing students into good citizens who are not only good human beings but also capable of contributing to the improvement of the pharmacy profession in particular and society in general.

Degree:

• B.Pharm
• D.Pharm
• M.Pharm Industrial Pharmacy,
• M.Pharm Pharmacognosy

Harvard University

Acceptance Rate: 5%

Graduation Rate: 98%

Employability Rate: 50%

Harvard is the oldest higher education institution in the United State founded in 1636.
Harvard University is known as one of the best colleges for pharmacy. The university is located in  Cambridge and Boston, Massachusetts. However, the school is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning, and research, and to developing leaders in many disciplines who make a difference globally. 

Note, The University has twelve degree-granting Schools in addition to the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, offering a truly global education. Harvard University is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE) of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).