For a pharmacist major, the most recommended degree program would be in the realm of pharmaceutical sciences. This major enables students to study the necessary coursework in pursuit of the degree, for eligibility as a pharmacist.

A first degree in pharmaceutical science studies focuses on various disciplines, including medicine, chemistry, pharmacology and pharmaceutics. The students attend classes and also engage them in intense laboratory work. Several courses include periods of internships. As a main component of the pharmacist major's course, it is required that the student is attached in a pharmaceutical company or research laboratory during his or her studies.

For aspiring pharmacists, most of the programs are very competitive, and applicants need to have a high school diploma or an equivalent. However, the minimum requirements differ, depending on the institution. The coursework for a pharmacist major will normally include an in-depth study of basic sciences, with a keen focus on chemistry. Extra courses enable the student to comprehend the occupational trends, rules and also what is involved generally, in pharmacy. Such extra courses include organic chemistry, general chemistry, microbiology, analytical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutics and biochemistry.

Not long ago, the United States authorities anticipated that employment for pharmacists would increase by up to 17%. This expectation was fuelled by the aging of the population, since older people are prone to using more medication than the younger people. In addition, this expectation was driven by the fact that there have been major developments in the field of pharmacy, and the majority of the population is insured, hence many people would be inclined to seek pharmaceutical services.

In the past decade, American colleges offering pharmacy programs have been in the forefront of introducing the Doctor of Pharmacy program, in addition to the undergraduate course. Most pharmacist major students have been noted to continue their education, and this doctoral program is ideal for those who wish to further their education in the field. This doctoral program does not necessarily require a pharmacy degree for eligibility, although it needs at least a degree in any field.

Many American colleges and Universities provide pre-pharmacy programs to prepare students for the doctoral course. Of course, those with an undergraduate degree in pharmacy, and who undertook the pharmacist major, would have an advantage over those without such a background. On completing the Doctor of Pharmacy program, graduates undergo some examinations, which they must pass to be licensed as pharmacists.