Where Can I Study Pharmacy In South Africa? (2024)

South Africa is a great place to pursue a career in pharmacy. With a wide range of universities, colleges and other learning facilities, there is no shortage of places to study pharmacy. In South Africa, pharmacy is offered as a degree or diploma program at many universities and colleges, both public and private.

Several educational institutions provide students with the training and knowledge they need to become successful pharmacists. Some of the top universities where you can study pharmacy in South Africa include the University of Cape Town, the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of Pretoria, the University of Johannesburg and the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Where Can I Study Pharmacy In South Africa?

University of Pretoria
University of Kwazulu-Natal
University of the Western Cape
University of Johannesburg
University of Limpopo
North-West University
University of the Free State
Tshwane University of Technology
Nelson Mandela University
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
University of South Africa
Central University of Technology
Durban University of Technology
University of Venda
Vaal University of Technology
Mangosuthu University of Technology
Walter Sisulu University
University of Zululand
National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD)
South African College of Pharmacy (SACP)

Educational Requirements to study pharmacy in South Africa on all levels

Undergraduate

To pursue an undergraduate degree in pharmacy in South Africa, students must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with an admission point score (APS) of at least 22. The NSC must include the following subjects:

* Mathematics Level 4

* Physical Science Level 4

* English Level 4

* Life Sciences (Biology) Level 4

In addition, students must have achieved a minimum of 50% in all of these subjects.

Postgraduate

To be eligible to pursue a postgraduate degree in pharmacy in South Africa, students must have a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree or an equivalent qualification that is approved by the South African Pharmacy Council.

Students may also be required to have obtained a minimum of 60% in certain subjects during their undergraduate studies, as well as a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in the field.

Continuing Education

Continuing education is available for pharmacists in South Africa and typically involves attending seminars and workshops on the latest developments in the field.

The South African Pharmacy Council also offers a range of continuing education courses for pharmacists. To be eligible, pharmacists must have a valid South African Pharmacy Council registration.

How long does it take to study pharmacy in South Africa & what is the mode of study (i.e. Full time or Part time)?

It typically takes five to six years of full-time study to complete a pharmacy degree in South Africa. The program is offered both in full-time and part-time modes. In the full-time mode, students must attend classes and clinical placements for five days a week and complete the required workload for the duration of the program.

In the part-time mode, students are required to attend classes and clinical placements for two days a week and complete the required workload in the remaining three days. To become a registered pharmacist in South Africa, one must complete a pharmacy degree program, then pass a national board exam and complete a one-year internship.

How much does it cost to study pharmacy in South Africa?

The cost of studying pharmacy in South Africa depends on the institution and the type of program you are interested in. For example, a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree at the University of Pretoria costs approximately R125,000 for tuition, with additional costs for accommodation, books, and other fees.

The cost of a Master’s degree in Pharmacy will vary depending on the university and program. However, it is typically around R200,000 for tuition, with additional costs for accommodation, books, and other fees. Additionally, some universities offer financial aid and scholarships for pharmacy students.

Are pharmacists high in demand in South Africa and what Career opportunities are available for pharmacists in South Africa?

Yes, pharmacists are in high demand in South Africa. Due to the high prevalence of chronic diseases in the country and the need for improved access to healthcare services, the demand for pharmacists is expected to continue to rise.

Career opportunities for pharmacists in South Africa are extensive. Pharmacists can work in clinical settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They can also work in retail settings such as pharmacies, health food stores, and supermarkets.

Pharmacists can also work in the pharmaceutical industry, in research, in academia, and government. Many pharmacists specialize in specific areas such as geriatrics, oncology, and managed care.

How much do pharmacists earn in South Africa?

The salary of a pharmacist in South Africa varies depending on the type of pharmacy and the location. Generally, pharmacists earn between R170,000 and R400,000 per annum. Those with more experience or in more senior positions may earn higher salaries.

Pharmacists in major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban may earn higher salaries due to higher demand for their services. Additionally, pharmacists that work for large chain pharmacies may also earn higher salaries than those in smaller independent pharmacies.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, South Africa has a wide range of options when it comes to studying pharmacy. You can study pharmacy in South Africa at universities, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, or private institutions.

Each option offers its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to research each option to find the one that best suits your needs and goals. No matter what route you choose, you can be sure that you will receive a quality education and be well-prepared to enter the pharmacy profession in South Africa.