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A qualified pharmacy school applicant must have a general understanding of the profession, demonstrate interest in and awareness of medical and social issues, and exhibit cross-cultural competency. You will gain this experience both in the classroom and through extracurricular activities.

Since pharmacy schools do not give preference for any particular major, you should major in a field that aligns your interests, passions, and abilities. UW Tacoma has an interdisciplinary curriculum that will give you a broad base of knowledge and allow you to make connections between disciplines which is essential to being a successful professional. Throughout your time on campus, your academic advisor can help ensure you take the appropriate pre-requisite courses as part of your academic experience.

Prepare

An excellent pharmacy school applicant will have a strong cumulative grade point average and within the pre-requisite courses. It is also important to have a competitive PCAT score. Outside of the classroom, pharmacy schools will look for significant amount of time shadowing professionals, relevant volunteer experience, and leadership skills.

Below are the most commonly required pre-requisites for pharmacy school. You should still review each school’s admission requirements to ensure you meet all preparatory coursework and other application requirements.

Mathematics Chemistry Biology Physics Social Science English
TMATH 124 TCHEM 142 TBIOL 120 TPHYS 121 TPSYCH 101 TCORE 101
  TCHEM 152 TBIOL 130 TPHYS 122 TECON 200 OR
TMATH 110 TCHEM 162 TBIOL 140 TPHYS 123   TWRT 121
        Public Speaking OR
  TCHEM 251 TBIOL 301     ENGL 131
  TCHEM 261 Microbiology II*      
  TCHEM 271       Composition II
    Anatomy     OR
  TCHEM 405 Physiology     ENGL 141
  TCHEM 406      

 

 

*Each pharmacy school will have different pre-requisite courses. It is important to start researching each school's admission requirements early. Consult with your academic advisor about how to sequence these pre-requisites and create an academic plan. 

Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)

In an attempt to encourage more pharmacy school applicants and reduce bias and barriers, the PCAT was phased out after the January 2024 testing period. This exam will not be offered during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle or beyond and will no longer be a requirement at any pharmacy school.