This page is designed for students applying to PharmD schools after graduation. For information on UW School of Pharmacy’s prerequisites, please visit their website. The following is a general guide for courses you may need to apply to pharmacy school. Requirements vary from school to school. So, it is always necessary to consult the websites of pharmacy schools where you know/think you want to apply. You can begin by consulting AACP’s list of Pharmacy School Prerequisites.
Consider using our four-year planner to map out your coursework and extracurricular activities.
Mathematics
Most pharmacy schools require at least one semester of calculus. This requirement can be met by taking Math 211 OR Math 221 OR Math 171/217.
Most programs also require at least one semester of statistics. This course can be taken in your major department.
NOTE: Math 112 is a prerequisite for Chem 103 and Physics 103. In addition, Math 217 or 221 are prerequisites for Physics 201 and 207.
Chemistry
General Chemistry Choose one of the following sequences:
- Chemistry 103-104
- Chemistry 109
Organic Chemistry
- Chem 343: Introductory Organic Chemistry
- Chem 345: Intermediate Organic Chemistry
- Chem 344: Organic Chemistry Lab
Biology
Choose one of these two sequences:
- Zoology 101-102 + Additional bio-science course
- Options include: Genetics, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Immunology
- Note: you may need to do an additional bio-science course with lab
- Biology 151-152
- Biocore: Students must apply to enroll in Biocore. For more information, visit their website.
- Biocore 381-382 AND 383-384 satisfies Intro to Bio requirements
- Biocore 485-486 Organismal Biology lecture/lab (Satisfies I/A bio)
Physics
Choose one of the following sequences:
- Physics 103-104 (algebra-based)
- Physics 201-202 (calculus-based; recommended for Engineering majors)
- Physics 207-208 (calculus-based; recommended for Life Science majors)
English/Public Speaking
Most pharmacy schools require 6 credits of English, Literature, or Public Speaking.
Other Coursework
(Not required by all programs):
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Microeconomics
- Public Speaking
- Social Science
- Psychology