Pharmacy
Being a pharmacist involves much more than counting pills. It is an ever-evolving profession focused on helping New Zealanders make the most of their medicines.
Subject overview
Pharmacy has evolved over the years to the point where pharmacists now also utilise their skills for immunisations, health checks and monitoring. They deliver enhanced services in collaboration with other members of healthcare teams.
Modern pharmacy education extends beyond the traditional by shifting the focus beyond just drug chemistry and delivery. The subject encompasses how patients use medicines and how pharmacists can optimise patient care through interaction with other health professionals.
Pharmacy can be studied at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Once you complete your undergraduate programme, you can then progress to postgraduate study, which further expands your career opportunities.
Where can Pharmacy take you?
Pharmacists work in a range of industries related to the manufacture, prescription and provision of medicines:
- Government agencies: regulating the quality and availability of drugs
- Pharmaceutical companies: researching and trialling new compounds
- Community and hospital pharmacies: liaising with the public and other health professionals on the safe and effective use of medicines