Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA: Top Universities & Programs

The Bachelor’s in Pharmacy (BPharm/BSPS) is a 4-year program covering drug development, human biology, and pharma tech. It prepares students for roles in research, quality control, and sales, or advanced degrees such as the Pharm.D. or MS.

Over 7,500 pharmacy-related undergraduate degrees are awarded annually in the U.S., with a rising share of international students. The degree is a popular pre-PharmD pathway that meets core prerequisite requirements.

This blog explores the best universities and programs in the U.S for bachelor's in pharmacy in USA, helping you take the first step toward a high-flying global career to study in the USA.

Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA: Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in the USA is a 4-year program offered by over 140 accredited U.S. institutions. According to AACP, first-professional pharmacy enrollments reached 44,403. The program is gaining popularity among international students seeking careers in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

Below is a clear overview of key program metrics at the top accredited U.S. universities:

Having established a comprehensive overview of bachelors in pharmacy in the USA, it becomes essential to understand what makes this destination particularly attractive for aspiring pharmacy professionals.

Why Pursue a Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA?

The Bachelor's in Pharmacy education system in the U.S. is highly structured, with the Pharm.D. recognized as the entry-level qualification for professional practice. 

Graduates benefit from some of the highest-paying jobs in healthcare, expanded clinical authority in many U.S. states, and flexible career options after graduation beyond traditional retail roles. 

Here's why pursuing pharmacy in the U.S. makes practical sense:

• High Earning Potential: The median annual salary for pharmacists is USD 136,030 (approximately INR 1.1 Cr). Those in outpatient care centers earned up to USD 164,180 (INR 1.4Cr).
• Broad Career Scope: Roles extend beyond dispensing to include clinical pharmacy, nuclear pharmacy, informatics, pharmacovigilance, and regulatory affairs.
• Expanded Prescribing Rights: States allow pharmacists to initiate therapy for vaccines, contraception, or chronic conditions, reflecting a growing recognition of their role as healthcare providers.
• Accredited, Practice-Focused Education: Programs include a full year of clinical rotations (APPEs), interprofessional learning, and capstone or research-based components.
• Optional Postgraduate Pathways: Students can pursue PGY-1 and PGY-2 residencies, fellowships, or certifications, which strengthen their competitiveness in clinical or academic settings.

These advantages make pharmacy courses in the USA attractive for those seeking solid career outcomes, as well as academic and practical impact.

Let’s explore the Best U.S. universities and colleges offering Bachelor's degrees in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences, known for their academic excellence, research output, and industry partnerships.

Top Universities Offering Pharmacy Courses USA

The top U.S. universities offering Bachelor’s-level programs in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences are renowned for their academic, research, and strong industry connections. 

Tuition ranges from USD 38,934 to USD 64,730 (INR 32.51 L – 54.03 L), with most programs lasting four years and admitting new students each fall.

Below is a list of other well-regarded universities offering focused Bachelor's in pharmacy:

While the top-ranked universities set benchmarks for academic excellence, numerous other highly regarded institutions also offer outstanding bachelor's degrees in pharmacy in the USA, worth considering.

Popular Universities Offering Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA

Beyond the Ivy League and the best public universities in the USA, there are reputable pharmacy-related Bachelor’s programs. These cater to students interested in niche fields like clinical trials, pharmaceutics, and pharmacology.

For instance, the University of Southern California offers a 4-year Bachelor’s in Pharmacy abroad with a tuition of USD 63,886 (INR 50.40L) per semester.

Below is a list of other well-regarded universities offering focused pharmacy degrees:

Once you have identified the universities that align with your goals, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the eligibility requirements that govern admission to these esteemed programs.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA

The entry requirements for a U.S. Bachelor’s in Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences are notably competitive: Purdue admits about 275 students annually, with a typical GPA of 3.5+; meanwhile, UNC’s Pharm.D. assured pathway sees only ~25% admission from pre-pharmacy cohorts. 

You’ll need strong academic records, standardized test scores, language proficiency in English, valid visa documents, typically a TOEFL iBT score of 79–100 or an IELTS band score of 6.5–7.5  and polished application materials.

Here’s a complete breakdown of eligibility requirements, including academic, test, and visa-related criteria:

Understanding the eligibility criteria sets the foundation; the next step is to guide the applicant through the application process, which involves a series of structured steps and documentation.

Application Process for Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA

Applying for a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy in the U.S. involves 5–6 key steps, including Common App or PharmCAS submission, document upload, and a visa interview. 

Purdue University alone received over 59,000 undergraduate applications, showcasing strong demand. UNC Eshelman’s application via PharmCAS opens in July 2025, with deadlines extending through February.

Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the typical application process for pharmacy courses in the USA:

• Step 1: Research & Prepare: Review prerequisite coursework requirements (usually ≥60–90 science credits) and GPA thresholds (~2.75–3.0+) specific to each school. Prepare English proficiency tests (TOEFL iBT 79–100, IELTS 6.5–7.5) if needed.
• Step 2: Complete the PharmCAS Application: Fill out your details, academic history, and upload your academic transcripts (with foreign transcripts evaluated by WES if required).
  • Include a resume/CV, statement of purpose, and 2–3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
  • Pay PharmCAS fees (USD 175 or INR 15K for the first school, USD 55 or INR 4.7K per additional school); PCAT is optional or phased out at many schools.
• Step 3: Submit Supplemental Applications: Complete any university-specific applications once PharmCAS verification is complete (e.g., UIC and UMKC require supplemental forms).
• Step 4: Interviews: Once shortlisted, applicants may be invited to interviews, which can be conducted virtually or on campus and may include MMI-style or traditional formats.
• Step 5: Admission & Enrollment: Receive admission offer, submit deposit, and finalize enrollment. International students will receive Form I-20 and must apply for an F-1 visa, which includes completing the DS-160 form, paying the SEVIS fee, and providing proof of funds.

With the application process clarified, prospective students often seek insight into the curriculum and structure of a Bachelor of Pharmacy program to better prepare for their academic journey.

Curriculum Details for Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA

Undergraduate pharmacy programs in the U.S. are designed to blend scientific theory with practical experience. 

For instance, the University of North Carolina (UNC) requires over 120 credit hours. Meanwhile, Campbell University requires final-year international internships, with over 90% of BSPS graduates securing jobs or graduate programs within 6 months of graduation.

Here's how the typical course structure, subject areas, and specialization options are organized across U.S. pharmacy schools:

After evaluating the course structure and academic expectations, it is equally important to consider the financial investment required to pursue pharmacy education in the United States.

Cost of Pursuing a Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA

While pharmacy degrees offer strong career outcomes, the total cost of studying in the USA can be significant, especially for international students. 

Annual tuition alone ranges between USD 50,000 and USD 73,000 (INR 43 L to INR 62.7 L), depending on the university and residency status.

To help you plan financially, here’s a breakdown of the typical monthly cost for studying in the USA for Indian students:

Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate

Now that you understand the cost structure, let’s explore the wide range of scholarships available to help international and domestic students finance their Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in the USA.

Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA: Scholarships for Students

Guiding the cost of a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy can be easier with scholarships; over 90% of pharmacy students at USC receive financial aid, including merit-based, need-based, and institutional awards. 

At UGA College of Pharmacy, more than 310 students received a total of USD 468,000 (INR 3.91 Cr) in scholarships and emergency funding in one academic year. 

Let's explore the scholarship options for Indian students to study in the USA:

Internal Scholarships

U.S. universities offering Bachelor’s in Pharmacy programs after 12th often allocate dedicated scholarship funds to support admitted students, with many awards granted automatically based on academic excellence or financial need. 

For example, the University of Washington provides up to USD 31,500 (INR 27L) in need-based aid, while the University of Michigan includes merit awards as part of the undergraduate pharmacy admissions process.

Here are select study abroad scholarships offered by top U.S. pharmacy schools:

In addition to institutional support, a range of external scholarships are available from government bodies, private organizations, and international foundations.

External Scholarships

Students pursuing a Bachelor's in Pharmacy in the U.S. can explore a wide range of nationally recognized and corporate-sponsored funding opportunities. Notable options include the Fulbright Scholarship, which offers comprehensive coverage of tuition, travel, and living expenses in the USA for eligible international students.

The table below lists the fully funded scholarships in the United States for international students.

After getting a scholarship to study abroad at top universities, it’s essential to understand the diverse career paths available. Here’s a look at the top job opportunities after earning a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy in the USA.

Job Opportunities After a Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy can step into versatile roles across the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. 

Most in-demand jobs in the USA, such as those for Pharmaceutical Scientists, average USD 114,000 (INR 95.19 L) per year, while senior-level positions can reach over USD 227,000 (INR 1.90 Cr) per year.

Here’s a closer look at the job opportunities after D Pharma for those pursuing advanced pharmacy education in the U.S., including average salaries across key roles:

Source: bls.gov, US News, ziprecruiter

Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

With strong job prospects across the pharmaceutical industry, let’s take a look at some of the top recruiters that actively hire graduates with a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy in the U.S.

Top Recruiters

Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in the USA are often recruited by leading pharmaceutical companies and healthcare organizations, offering competitive entry-level salaries. 

For example, Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives at top firms like Pfizer and Merck earn around USD 96,228 (INR 80.32 L) per year, while entry-level Pharmaceutical Scientists report wages of nearly USD 114,328 (INR 95.47 L) per year.

Here are key employers along with typical roles, Part-time job opportunities in USA and salaries for Bachelor's level pharmacy graduates:

Source: Glassdoor, AmbitionBox

These organizations represent the broad range of career opportunities available to Pharm.D. graduates who have pursued pharmacy courses in the USA, offering varied work environments and strong demand nationwide.

How Can upGrad Help You Study a Bachelor's in Pharmacy USA?

Earning a Bachelor's in Pharmacy in the U.S. requires more than just meeting academic qualifications. From understanding program prerequisites and entrance exams to organizing transcripts and application deadlines, the process can be complex. upGrad offers end-to-end guidance to make it easier.

Whether you're shortlisting universities with strong pharmaceutical science programs or tailoring your documents to meet pharmacy-specific expectations, upGrad’s expert counselors are here to help. We provide support with funding options, scholarship applications, and student visa planning.

Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts today to plan your Bachelor’s in Pharmacy journey in the U.S. with confidence and clarity.