Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology: Pre-Pharmacy Emphasis

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Overview

Take the First Step Toward Your Potential Career as a Pharmacist

A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Pharmacy can provide the foundation for those looking to pursue future pharmacist roles. In this degree program at Grand Canyon University, you will take the core coursework needed to prepare yourself to sit for the Pharmacy College Admission test (PCAT: if needed) and potentially step into a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program in the future.

If you enjoy examining the fundamentals of scientific principles that can help establish a framework for more advanced curriculum within pharmacology, this degree may be right for you.

Two biology students using lab equipment
Coursework

Prepare for Your Future With Pre-Pharmacy Courses

Many pharmacists work with customers, other pharmacists and pharmacy techs on a regular basis. This means that you can benefit from developing skills in interpersonal communications.1 You will be taught skills that can help you prepare to discuss pharmacology and human physiology with people at a general and professional level.

In addition, you will study current theories and practices in pharmacology and consider timely topics that may impact customers.

Some of these theories, practices and topics include:

Complex biological networks

Communication of case studies and clinical research

Ethics

Human anatomy

Lab methods

Molecular biology

Practical pharmacology skills

Scientific inquiry

Pre-pharmacy teacher working with students in a labratory
Careers

Prepare for Graduate-Level Pharmacy Studies 

Graduates from this degree at GCU have the opportunity to prepare themselves to move on to graduate-level studies. The core coursework in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry and genetics may count as prerequisites for other allied health graduate programs.

Depending on certain state requirements, you may qualify to become a pharmacy technician right away or by completing an additional training program and passing a certification exam.2 Alternatively, you may choose to complete graduate-level education in pursuit of a career as a potential pharmacist.

Accreditation

Study Biology at an Institutionally Accredited University

Not all bachelor’s in biology degrees offer the same quality of instruction. It’s important to choose a program from a university or college that has been institutionally accredited — an indicator of the quality of the school. GCU is proud to be an institutionally accredited university that emphasizes quality education.

FAQ

BS in Biology With an Emphasis in Pre-Pharmacy FAQs

Before getting started on your career path, you may wish to do some additional research to ensure you are making an informed decision that’s right for your future. The following frequently asked questions and answers can provide a starting point for your career-related research.

Specialized Bachelor’s in Biology Degree Options Focused on Your Interests

At GCU, our BS in Biology offers a variety of emphases to help you specialize in a particular area of science. These emphases range from pre-dentistry to veterinary medicine. 

STEM professor talking to classroom

Start Your Journey Today

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacist, a Bachelor of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Pharmacy may be the right choice for you. Contact a university counselor at GCU by filling out the form on this page and take the first step toward your future.

Apply Now

1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). How to Become a Pharmacist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 21, 2023.

2 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). How to become a Pharmacy Technician. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 21, 2023.

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