-Surya Pillai
India always has a leg up in terms of medical facilities due to its varied medical fields. The fields of medicine have advanced significantly during the last ten years thanks to advancements in both modern medicine and the AYUSH medical systems. Without mentioning the part the pharmacy industry plays in the medical field, no discussion about it would be complete. We owe pharmaceutical researchers for the development of penicillin, the rabies vaccine, the polio vaccine, and ASV, which prevented the extinction of humankind. Furthermore, recent reports indicate that AIIMS and IIT Mumbai are on the verge of discovering a cancer cure.
Pharmacy programs in India range from diploma to post-graduation and research. A student can select a course based on his or her interests and desired career path in the pharmaceutical industry. Let us take a closer look at the various courses available in the field and the job opportunities they offer.
D. Pharm (Diploma in Pharmacy)
D Pharm is a two-year diploma course focusing on the fundamental concepts of pharmaceutical science and basic skills needed in the pharmacy profession. Eligibility to join the course is plus two with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Maths as the main subjects. The curriculum covers Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Chemistrystry, Pharmacology and Toxicology, and Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy. They have job opportunities as Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Sales Representative and Pharmacy Technician.
B. Pharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy)
B. Pharm is a highly sought-after Para Medical Course in India. The duration of the course is four years. A plus two in science with a minimum of 50% marks is the eligibility for admission. Being a degree course it focuses on in-depth knowledge of pharmaceutical science, drug formulation and clinical pharmacy. Anatomy, Physiology, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacognosy, Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics are curricula covered in B. Pharm. A B. Pharm holder has job opportunities as a Research and Development(R&D) Scientist, Quality Control Analyst and Regulatory Affairs Specialist. They can also get academic positions in Colleges and Universities.
Pharm D
The Pharm. D program, launched in 2008 by the Government of India and Pharmacy Council of India, is a 6-year post-graduate professional doctorate consisting of 5 years of study and 1 year of internship or residency. The eligibility criteria are the same as those for the B.Pharm. In comparison to the B.Pharm course, the Pharm D program focuses on patient care, clinical pharmacy, and extensive therapeutic knowledge. Its Curriculum highlights Clinical Pharmacy, Biostatistics and Research Methodology, Pharmacotherapeutics, Hospital Pharmacy and Clinical Toxicology. Their job opportunities include posting as Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmacovigilance Specialist, Clinical Research Coordinator, Consultant Pharmacist and Healthcare Administrator.
A career in pharmacy in India provides numerous opportunities in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, research, education, and industry. Whether you choose D. Pharm, B. Pharm, or Pharm. D, each course provides a solid foundation and a variety of career options, making a significant contribution to the healthcare system and patient care.For those interested in pharmaceuticals and patient care, these courses provide rewarding and fulfilling career opportunities.