How do I get Training for Pharmaceutical Industry Careers?

There are many different kinds of pharmaceutical industry careers available. From drug manufacturing to working in a pharmacy, many pharmaceutical industry careers require special training and certification in this important and difficult field. Most pharmaceutical careers require an undergraduate college degree, though some require advanced degrees such as a master's degree or a PharmD. There are also entry-level pharmaceutical industry careers that do not require a college education, which may be a good choice for those wanting to find out if the industry is right for them before going on to advanced training.

A great deal of the industry is devoted to research and development. In the fight against illness and injury, new drugs are always important. Training to become a researcher in the pharmaceutical industry usually requires an advanced college degree, usually a master's degree or doctorate, in a scientific area. People with degrees in biology, medical degrees, or related scientific areas can often find work in research and development.

Sales and marketing are extremely important segments in the pharmaceutical industry. Many professionals who work in sales and marketing spend a lot of time traveling and developing working relationships with doctors and medical offices. Training for sales and marketing usually requires at least a bachelor's degree, but it does not always need to be in a scientific or medical field. Much more important to pharmaceutical industry careers in sales and marketing is an ability to represent the product and company with charm and ease. Other qualifications for these jobs include a driver's license and willingness to travel.

Pharmacists are critical to the health care industry; these medical professionals are the bridge between doctors and patients. To become a pharmacist, most regions require that a person get a specialized degree known as a PharmD, or doctorate of pharmacy. This degree normally takes five to eight years to complete, and must include at least two years of undergraduate work. Many pharmacists choose to start training after completing the second year of undergraduate schooling, provided they pass entrance exams to the PharmD program. Most pharmacy programs require either three or four years of training, which includes both coursework and practical residencies.

Though training for pharmaceutical industry careers can be extensive, many find the field a rewarding experience. In addition to helping doctors find new and better ways to fight disease, the pharmaceutical industry is also considered to be a very economically stable market. Many pharmaceutical careers pay extremely well and provide opportunities for career growth along the road.