From Classroom to Clinic: How Pharmacy Courses After 12th Open Doors

The Indian pharmaceutical industry is ranked third in pharmaceutical production by volume after evolving into a thriving industry with a CAGR of 9.43% in the past nine years. With the upcoming boom, the demand for skilled professionals has increased multifold, making a career in pharmacy one of the most promising paths for science students. If you have just completed your 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry and Biology. You might be wondering, what’s next?

Your Answer is here. Pharmacy is a dynamic field that combines medicine, research, drug development and patient care. It's not merely a job of dispensing medicines. With the Indian pharmaceutical industry expected to reach $130 billion by 2030, there has never been a better time to explore pharmacy courses after 12th.

What is a Pharmacy Course?

Pharmacy is a specialised course that prepares students for safe or therapeutic preparation and dispensing of medicinal agents, including a broader scope on other aspects of health and patient care. The curriculum of these courses is vast, including subjects like pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry and clinical pharmacy, preparing students for roles in medicine dispensing, drug research and healthcare services. 

Pharmacy Course Overview

Pharmacy courses are among the most sought-after career-oriented programmes for Science students after the 12th grade. These programmes cover various subjects, including Drugs and Medications, Medicinal Chemistry, and Pharmaceutical Engineering, equipping students with in-depth knowledge of medicine formulation, healthcare and patient care.

 

 

Pharmacy Courses: Eligibility Criteria

Admission to pharmacy programmes requires candidates to fulfil eligibility standards that vary based on the selected course type. The criteria vary among different educational institutions but specify common requirements to join these programmes. The requirements to attend pharmacy courses at different levels match the following framework:

Pharmacy Course Admissions 2025: A Complete Guide

All candidates seeking pharmacy admission must fulfil specific qualifying academic standards, which might require them to appear in an entrance test based on university admission criteria. Here is a breakdown of the admission procedure:

1. Eligibility Criteria

• Academic Qualification: Prospective candidates need to finish their Class 12 education at a recognised board with Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Mathematics as core subjects.
  

• Minimum Percentage: A minimum aggregate score of 50% is required, though it varies by institution.
  

• Age Limit: Some colleges may impose an age limit, which is not always strictly enforced.
  
  

2. Entrance Exams

• National Level: Certain educational institutions across the country admit students through NEET, CUET or GPAT exam results.

• State Level: Some states also conduct their own entrance exams for admission to state universities.
  

• Institution-Specific: Each college follows its own criteria, which includes either conducting its own entrance exams or admitting students based on Class 12 merit.
  
  

3. Admission Process

1. Application: Apply through college/university portals.
   

2. Entrance Test: Take the required entrance tests.
   

3. Merit List & Counselling: Colleges release merit lists based on exam scores or Class 12 performance, followed by counselling for seat allocation.
   

4. Document Verification: Verify academic and personal documents by attending counselling sessions.
   

5. Fee Payment & Admission Confirmation: Pay the required fees to confirm your enrollment.
   
   

Pharmacy Courses: Syllabus

Pharmacy syllabus, as in most other courses, include key topics like core pharmaceutical sciences, practical training and industry-specific knowledge. Here is a bird’s eye view of the Pharmacy course syllabus:

Core Subjects in Pharmacy Courses

• Pharmacology

• Medicinal Chemistry

• Pharmaceutics

• Clinical Pharmacy

• Human Anatomy and Physiology

• Pharmaceutical Analysis

• Biochemistry

• Pathophysiology

• Pharmaceutical Engineering

• Medicinal Chemistry

• Physical Pharmaceutics and more

Why Should You Choose Pharmacy Courses After 12th?

Before diving into the types of pharmacy courses, let's understand why this field is a smart career move.

 

Who Should Study B. Pharmacy?

A Bachelor of Pharmacy is an ideal choice for individuals interested in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector. The course is highly recommended for those who wish to give back to society and contribute to the improvement of the healthcare delivery system. Here’s a closer look at who should consider pursuing a B. Pharmacy.

 

Types of Pharmacy Courses After 12th

Depending on your career goals, you can choose various types of pharmacy courses

 from diploma and undergraduate to certificate programmes. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

 

 

Bachelor of Pharmacy – 4 Years

• Eligibility- 10+2 with PCB/PCM

• Career Scope- Drug Inspector, Formulation Scientist, Quality Control Analyst

 

B.Pharm Ayurveda – 4 Years

• Eligibility- 10+2 with PCB or Diploma in Ayurveda

• Career Scope- Siddha Centers, Ayurvedic Clinics, Medicine Manufacturing

B.Pharm Hons. – 4 Years

• Eligibility-10+2 with PCB

• Career Scope-Research and Development, Testing Labs, Medicine Lab Technology

 

B.Pharm Pharmaceutics – 4 Years

• Eligibility- 10+2 with PCB

• Career Scope- Analytical Chemistry, Drug Testing, Research and Development

 

Diploma in Pharmacy – 2 Years

• Eligibility- 10+2 with PCB

• Career Scope- Pharmacy Stores, Drug Testing, Healthcare Logistics

 

Certificate in Pharmaceutical Management – 4-6 Months

• Eligibility- 12th in any stream

• Career Scope- Healthcare Administrator, Sales Representative, Quality Control Officer

Doctor of Pharmacy – 6 Years

• Eligibility- 10+2 with PCB (Minimum 50%)

• Career Scope- Medical Writer, Clinical Pharmacist and Drug Safety Associate

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy / Pharmaceutical Science – 3 Years

• Eligibility- 10+2 with PCB or PCM

• Career Scope- Lab Technician, Research Assistant

Emerging Specialisations in Pharmacy

Career Prospects and Salary Trends

After completing a course in Pharmacy, students are exposed to multiple career opportunities. Some of them are mentioned below: 

Top Recruiters for Pharmacy Graduates

 As the Pharmaceutical industry evolves, pharmacy graduates have numerous opportunities to work with leading national and international organisations. Some of the esteemed names are mentioned below: 

• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

• Cipla Ltd.

• Lupin Ltd.

• Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd.

• Aurobindo Pharma Ltd.

• Cadila Healthcare Ltd.

• Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

• Biocon Ltd.

• Alkem Laboratories Ltd.

• Divis Laboratories Ltd.

• Abbott India Ltd.

• Ipca Laboratories Ltd.

• Serum Institute of India Ltd.

• Piramal Healthcare

• Unichem Laboratories

• Amneal Pharmaceuticals

• JK Paper

• Genesis

• Ranbaxy

• Macleods Pharma

• Veeda Clinical Research

• RUSAN Pharma

• Zydus Cadila

• Stellarix Consultancy

• Lupin Research Cell

• CBCC Global

• Apollo Pharmacy

• Alembic

• Multani Pharmaceuticals

• Dabur Research Foundation

• Gracure Pharmaceuticals

Skills Required for a Career in Pharmacy 

How to Choose the Right Pharmacy Course?

1. Interests and Career Goals: If you are research-oriented, choose B.Pharm/M. Pharm. If you prefer patient interaction, then Pharm.D will be ideal.

2. College Reputation: Check NAAC ratings and placement records

3. Internship & Industry Exposure: Look for colleges with hospital & pharma tie-ups

4. Higher Education Option: Consider whether you can pursue higher education courses like M.Pharm or MBA later.

B.Pharmacy Entrance Exams

Admission to the Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharmacy) programme typically requires candidates to pass specific entrance examinations. Here are some of the popular entrance exams for B. Pharmacy:

Excel in the World of Pharmacy with Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences

M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences has a vision to provide quality pharmacy courses and produce young talents with the potential to become professional and skilled pharmacists, researchers, and healthcare managers of tomorrow. The university is the ideal place to start your pharmacy career as it equips students with modern facilities and equipment, a curriculum relevant to the job market and practical exposure.

Pharmacy Courses After 12th at Ramaiah University

1. Bachelor of Pharmacy – 4 Years

• Eligibility: 10+2 with English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/and Mathematics 

Highlights: 

• Comprehensive study of Pharmacognosy, pharmacology and pharmaceutical chemistry

• Industry visits & internships with leading pharmaceutical firms

• Involves active participation and output-based projects, seminars and internships in industry accounts.

2. Doctor of Pharmacy – 6 Years (Including Internship)

• Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry & Biology or Maths (Minimum 45%)

Highlights:

• Comprehensive understanding of Clinical pharmacy & pharmacotherapy

• Develop expertise in patient-centred care and disease management

• Pathway to becoming a Clinical Pharmacist, Academic Pharmacist or Drug Safety Officer

Why Choose Ramaiah University for Pharmacy Education

• NAAC A+ Accredited: Recognised for academic excellence and quality education

• Industry-Experienced Faculty: Learn from renowned professors and pharmaceutical experts.

• Advanced Labs & Research Facilities: Get hands-on training in the formulation of drugs, pharmacology, and clinical pharmacy.

• Strong Industry Partnerships:  Internship & placement opportunities with top pharma companies

• Global Exposure: Collaborations with international universities for research and higher studies.

Career Opportunities After Pharmacy from RUAS

• Pharmaceutical Industry – Development of Drug, Quality Control and Regulatory Affairs

• Clinical Research – Trials of Drugs, Pharmacovigilance

• Hospital Pharmacy – Patient Care, Medication Therapy Management

• Higher Studies – M.Pharm, Pharm.D, MBA in Healthcare

Placement Support: Ramaiah University has a dedicated placement cell connecting students with top recruiters like Astrazeneca, Mankind and Bioclinical.

Your Path to a Successful Pharmacy Career 

As India’s pharmaceutical sector expands, pharmacy courses after 12th offer one of the most promising career paths for science students. This field provides diverse opportunities, financial stability and the chance to make a real difference in healthcare. Apply now and explore top pharmacy programmes at Ramaiah University to find your perfect fit. 

FAQs

1. Do pharmacy courses need NEET?

No, NEET is generally not required for pursuing a Bachelor of Pharmacy or Doctor of Pharmacy programme.

2. Is pharmacy a 3-year course?

The duration of pharmacy courses depends on your choice of programme. Usually, the Bachelor’s in Pharmacy is a 4-year degree course. Several other courses like M.Pharm, Pharm D etc, are for 2 years.

3. Which course is best in pharmacy after 12th?

Bachelor of Pharmacy, which generally spans from 3-4 years, can be the best course for students after 12th.