Becoming a Pharmacist

Information about the education and training required to become a pharmacist in Ireland.

Training to Become a Pharmacist in Ireland
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To qualify as a pharmacist in Ireland, you must complete a Master's Degree in Pharmacy (MPharm) which has been accredited by the PSI. The MPharm is a five-year integrated master's degree. Currently, we accredit programmes delivered by Trinity College Dublin, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and University College Cork. Once you have successfully completed an accredited programme, you will be eligible to apply to register as a pharmacist in Ireland. The MPharm is a five-year integrated master's degree that includes statutory experiential learning placements in year 4 and 5 of the programme

Currently, there are three pharmacy degree programmes in Ireland which are accredited by us. These are offered in: 

Applications for places on these programmes should be made through the Central Applications Office (CAO). More information can be viewed on the relevant university website. 

Accreditation

We are responsible for approving and recognising pharmacy degree programmes and continuing professional development (CPD) education and training for registered pharmacists.

Continuing Professional Development

Once you are registered to practice as a pharmacist with us, you are required by law to engage in continuing professional development (CPD).  

You can find out more about Continuing Professional Development for Pharmacists by visiting our CPD information page.

How do I register as a pharmacist? 

As a pharmacy graduate, with the requisite academic and practical training, you must apply to register with us before you can begin working as a pharmacist in Ireland. The registration process is part of our role to ensure that those working as pharmacists in Ireland meet the standards expected to provide an informed, professional and safe service to the public. You can read more about first-time registration with us on our website.