Pharm D Course in India: Details, Duration, Salary, Eligibility
May 28, 2025 2025-07-29 8:14Pharm D Course in India: Details, Duration, Salary, Eligibility
Pharm D Course in India: Details, Duration, Salary, Eligibility
Are you interested in becoming a pharmacist? Do you want to know more about the Pharm D course and how it can help you build a strong career in the healthcare field? This article is for you. Let’s explore what the Pharm D course is, its details, eligibility requirements, duration, what a Pharm D degree entails, and the potential salary after completing the program. All the information here is based on the offerings and structure provided by Desh Bhagat University, one of the respected names in higher education in Punjab.
What is Pharm D?
Pharm D, or Doctor of Pharmacy, is a professional doctoral degree in the field of pharmacy. It is designed for students who want to work closely with patients, doctors, and other healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective use of medicines.
Many people confuse Pharm D with other pharmacy degrees like B.Pharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy). But Pharm D is different and more focused on clinical practice. In simple terms, this means you are trained to work in hospitals, clinics, and medical settings where your job is to help people get the right medicine, understand how to take it, and avoid any bad effects.
What is a Pharm D Degree?
A Pharm D degree is a professional qualification that allows you to become a licensed pharmacist. After completing this program, you are known as a “Doctor of Pharmacy,” but remember, this is not the same as a medical doctor (MBBS). It is a pharmacy-focused doctorate, recognized by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI).
A Pharm D graduate has strong knowledge about medicines, how they work in the body, and how they should be given to patients. This makes them a very important part of the healthcare team.
Pharm D Course Details
At Desh Bhagat University, the Pharm D course is designed to give students both strong academic knowledge and real-life practical experience. Here are some important details about the course:
- Total Duration: 6 years (5 years of study + 1 year of internship)
- Level of Study: Doctorate
- Type: Full-time program
- Approval: Approved by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)
Subjects You Will Learn
Throughout the 6 years, students will learn many subjects, including:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Hospital and Community Pharmacy
- Biochemistry
- Pathophysiology
- Microbiology
- Therapeutics
- Pharmacokinetics
- Drug Interactions
- Patient Counselling
In the final year, students do a full-time internship in a hospital, where they work under doctors and senior pharmacists. This helps them gain hands-on experience with patients.
Pharm D Duration
As mentioned earlier, the Pharm D duration is six years. This includes:
- Five years of academic learning in the classroom and labs
- One year of internship in a hospital
The final year is very important because students work directly with patients, doctors, and other professionals. It helps them develop the skills needed to work in real-life situations and solve practical problems.
Pharm D Eligibility
To get admission to the Pharm D course at Desh Bhagat University, students need to meet the following conditions:
- Educational Qualification:
- 10+2 or equivalent examination
- Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Math as compulsory subjects
- Minimum Marks:
- At least 50% aggregate marks in qualifying subjects
- Alternative Entry:
- Students who have completed a Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) can also apply for lateral entry into the course (generally into the second year).
Career Options after Pharm D
After completing the Pharm D degree, many exciting career paths open up for students. Some popular job roles include:
1. Clinical Pharmacist
You work in hospitals and clinics, providing advice on medicine dosages and interactions. You work closely with doctors.
2. Community Pharmacist
You work in pharmacies and counsel patients about how to take their medicines correctly.
3. Hospital Pharmacist
You help manage the stock of medicines in hospitals and ensure that patients get the right medicines.
4. Drug Inspector
You work for government or regulatory bodies and ensure medicine quality in the market.
5. Pharmacovigilance Officer
You monitor the safety of medicines and report side effects to the health authorities.
6. Medical Writer
You write content for medical companies, journals, or research labs.
7. Research Associate
You help in clinical research and the development of new medicines.
8. Academician or Lecturer
You can teach pharmacy students in colleges and universities.
Pharm D Salary
The Pharm D salary in India varies based on experience, job location, and sector. Here’s a general idea:
| Level of Experience | Average Annual Salary (in INR) |
| Fresher (0–2 years) | ₹3.5–₹5.5 Lakhs |
| Mid-Level (3–5 years) | ₹6–₹9 Lakhs |
| Senior-Level (5+ years) | ₹10 Lakhs or more |
Pharm D professionals, who work abroad, especially in countries like the USA, Canada, or Gulf nations, may earn even higher salaries due to high demand and global recognition of the degree.
Why Choose Desh Bhagat University for Pharm D?
Desh Bhagat University (DBU) is one of the respected educational institutions in Punjab offering the Pharm D course. There are many reasons to choose DBU:
1. Approved Curriculum
The Pharm D program at DBU is approved by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI). This means the curriculum meets the national standard and is accepted across India.
2. Modern Infrastructure
DBU has modern labs, research facilities, and experienced faculty members to provide a good learning environment.
3. Hospital Training
The university has tie-ups with hospitals where students get practical experience through internships.
4. Placement Support
DBU provides placement assistance to help students get jobs after completing the course.
5. Focus on Skill Development
DBU encourages soft skills, communication, and patient handling, which are essential for pharmacists.
Skills You Will Gain in Pharm D
A Pharm D student learns more than just theory. Here are some important skills you will develop:
- Strong understanding of medicines and their effects
- Ability to give clear advice to patients
- Analytical skills to study patient cases
- Communication skills to work in healthcare teams
- Research skills for clinical trials and drug development
Difference between B.Pharm and Pharm D
Many students are confused between B.Pharm and Pharm D. Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | B.Pharm | Pharm D |
| Duration | 4 years | 6 years |
| Focus Area | Manufacturing, formulation | Clinical practice, patient care |
| Title After Degree | Bachelor | Doctor of Pharmacy |
| Internship | Optional or limited | Mandatory 1-year hospital work |
| Career Opportunities | Industry, retail pharmacy | Hospitals, clinics, global roles |
Global Opportunities after Pharm D
The Pharm D degree is recognized in many countries. This means you can apply for further education or jobs abroad. Some students also go for:
- Post-Graduate Studies (like M.Pharm or MBA in Healthcare)
- Residency Programs in the USA
- Licensing Exams like NAPLEX (USA), PEBC (Canada), DHA (Dubai)
With a Pharm D, your career can go beyond borders if you are willing to clear the necessary exams and meet local requirements.
Final Thoughts
The Pharm D course is a wonderful opportunity for students who wish to work in the healthcare system and play an important role in patient care. At Desh Bhagat University, this course is taught with care, professionalism, and real-world training. The Pharm D degree helps you become more than just a pharmacist — it turns you into a healthcare expert who can save lives and guide people toward better health.
If you are passionate about science, medicine, and helping others, then the Pharm D course at DBU is a great choice.
FAQs
1. What is Pharm D, and who should study it?
Pharm D is a Doctor of Pharmacy degree that trains students to become professional pharmacists who can work in hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies. It focuses on patient care, how medicines work in the body, and how to use them safely. If you like science and want to help people through medicine, this course is a good choice.
2. How long is the Pharm D course, and what does it include?
The Pharm D course takes 6 years to complete. This includes 5 years of classroom and lab learning, followed by a 1-year internship in a hospital. The course includes subjects like pharmacology, clinical pharmacy, and patient care. The final year helps students gain real-life experience with patients.
3. What are the eligibility requirements for Pharm D?
To join the Pharm D course, you must complete 12th grade with science subjects—Physics, Chemistry, and either Biology or Math.
4. What kind of jobs can I get after completing Pharm D?
After completing Pharm D, you can work as a clinical pharmacist, hospital pharmacist, community pharmacist, or drug safety officer. You can also work in research, medical writing, teaching, or even apply for jobs abroad. The course opens many career paths in healthcare and pharmacy.
5. What is the average salary after Pharm D in India?
The average salary after Pharm D in India starts from ₹3.5 to ₹5.5 lakhs per year for a fresher. With a few years of experience, this can increase to ₹8–10 lakhs or more. Salary also depends on the job role, location, and type of employer.
6. Can I go abroad after doing a Pharm D in India?
Yes, Pharm D is a globally recognized degree. After passing additional exams like NAPLEX (USA), PEBC (Canada), or DHA (Dubai), you can work in those countries. Many students go abroad for better job opportunities and higher salaries after completing a Pharm D in India.
7. Is Pharm D better than B.Pharm?
Pharm D is not “better” than B.Pharm—it is different. B.Pharm is a 4-year bachelor’s degree, while Pharm D is a 6-year professional doctorate. B.Pharm focuses more on medicine manufacturing and industry, while Pharm D focuses on clinical practice and patient care. Choose the one that matches your goals.
8. What is the importance of the 1-year internship in Pharm D?
The 1-year internship is very important because it gives you hands-on experience. You get to work in a real hospital setting with doctors, patients, and senior pharmacists. This helps you build confidence, learn how to solve real health problems, and prepare for your career.
9. Can I open my pharmacy after Pharm D?
Yes, after completing your Pharm D and registering with the Pharmacy Council, you can open and run your pharmacy. You will be fully qualified to sell medicines, counsel patients, and manage a pharmacy business legally and professionally.
10. Can I become a doctor after Pharm D?
Pharm D gives you the title of “Doctor of Pharmacy,” but it is not the same as an MBBS doctor. You are a pharmacist who is trained in medicine use and patient care, not a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats illnesses.
11. Is Pharm D a good career choice for girls?
Yes, Pharm D is a great career choice for girls. It offers stable jobs, good salaries, and the chance to work in safe environments like hospitals or pharmacies. Many women choose this field because it allows a good work-life balance and respect in society.
12. Can I do Pharm D after B.Pharm?
Yes, students who have already completed B.Pharm can go for post-bachelor Pharm D (called Pharm D PB), which is a 3-year program. This allows B.Pharm graduates to upgrade their knowledge and skills, especially in clinical and patient-centered areas of pharmacy.
