Becoming an American Pharmacist After Studying in Bangladesh and America
The journey to becoming a licensed pharmacist in the United States after completing academic studies in Bangladesh and America is a complex one. This article will guide you through the necessary steps and requirements that you need to follow to achieve your goal of becoming a pharmacist in the U.S.
Requirements for Becoming a Licensed Pharmacist in the U.S.
To become a licensed pharmacist in the United States after completing a Bachelor of Pharmacy in Bangladesh and a Masters of Pharmacy in America, the following steps are generally required:
Educational Evaluation
The first step in this process is to have your foreign pharmacy degree, specifically the Bachelor of Pharmacy, evaluated to determine if it meets U.S. pharmacy education standards. This evaluation is typically conducted by a credential evaluation service such as the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC).
FPGEE Exam
After your education is evaluated, you will need to pass the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination (FPGEE). This exam is designed to assess your knowledge of pharmacy concepts and practices. It is a critical step in demonstrating that your education meets the criteria for licensure in the United States.
TOEFL Exam
If English is not your first language, you will also need to demonstrate your proficiency in English by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). This is important as the ability to communicate effectively in English is essential for a pharmacist practicing in the United States.
Completion of Internship Hours
After passing the FPGEE, the next step involves completing a specific number of internship hours under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist in the U.S. These hours are generally around 1500, providing you with hands-on experience that is invaluable for your future career.
NAPLEX and MPJE Exams
The final step in the licensing process is to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and possibly the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) or a state-specific law exam, depending on the state where you plan to practice.
State Licensure
Once all the aforementioned steps have been successfully completed, you can apply for licensure in the state where you wish to practice. Remember, the requirements for each state can vary, so it is essential to check the specific licensing board's regulations and guidelines in the state of your choice.
Important Note on Requirements for Licensure
Since 2006, the U.S. government has mandated that all licensed pharmacists must obtain a Doctorate of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.). While you can complete a Master's program with a different focus, a Pharm.D. or its North American standard equivalent is required to obtain licensure. It is crucial to ensure that your education meets this requirement before pursuing any state licensure.
Additional Information
This article is intended to provide a general guide. For a comprehensive and detailed plan, you may need to consult with relevant professional associations, such as the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP), or the individual licensing boards in the states where you plan to practice.
Incidental Questions: Location of Master's Degree and Specialization
Regarding your incidence question: If you obtained your Master's degree in Pharmacy in America, it would be helpful to know the specific institution and specialization. This information can provide more detailed insights into the relevance of your degree for the U.S. pharmacist licensing process. Specializations can vary widely and may include clinical pharmacy, drug information, or public health, among others. A detailed understanding of your master's specialization can help in tailoring your licensing preparation accordingly.