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Who We Look For

orientation2Preparing for Pharmacy School

If you are interested in becoming a pharmacist, start your preparation early.

  • In high school, talk to your science and math teachers. Those subjects will be important in your pharmacy career.
  • Find out the prerequisites for the pharmacy schools you’re interested in and start taking those courses during your early years in college.
  • Get involved in community work and various clubs and activities.
  • Get some work experience in a pharmacy.
  • If you can, visit the pharmacy schools you are interested in.

We hope to meet you soon!

Incoming Student Characteristics

The Whole Package

At UNC you will work as part of a team to improve the health of patients, and not all team members need to have the same talents in equal measure. Therefore, there is no one set of qualities we look for in our students.

We use a holistic admissions process, which means we look at the whole applicant and all of the talents and abilities they bring. Yes, GPAs and PCATs are important, but what we are really looking for are the future leaders of pharmacy. We recognize that our applicants are more than just a number. We celebrate the different backgrounds, skills, and talents they bring to the table.

We look for evidence that you can and want to do the following:

  • Take initiative and assume responsibility for your learning
  • Think critically and creatively to solve problems
  • Collaborate with others
  • Adapt quickly
  • Display curiosity
  • Communicate effectively and professionally both verbally and in writing
  • Act responsibly, ethically, and professionally
  • Make a positive difference in the lives of others

We consider each applicant’s academic performance, PCAT exam scores, extracurricular involvement, work experience, leadership experience, personal statement, research experience, and interview performance.

Prior pharmacy or health-care experience is not required, but it is encouraged.

Why This Is Important

We at the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy are committed to offering you the best pharmacy education in the world. We’ll work tirelessly to help you cultivate and reach your full potential.

You will be a leader and innovator who recognizes the health-care needs of patients and society and who lead teams toward improvement and change for the betterment of patient care.

You will be a lifelong learner who continually strives for positive impact.

We’re grateful for your consideration of our program and look forward to getting to know you.

In addition to required academic achievement and proficiency, the following technical standards describe non-academic qualifications the School considers essential for successful completion of the educational objectives of its curriculum. Therefore, in order to be admitted, to successfully progress, and to be approved for graduation, applicants for admission and current students must demonstrate the qualifications described here.

View our Progression Standards