What a levels do you need to be a pharmacist
We’ll be discussing what you need to know to have a career in pharmacy.
Becoming a pharmacist is a journey that requires dedication, intellect, and a passion for helping others.
It’s a career path that demands a strong foundation in science and a commitment to lifelong learning. For those embarking on this journey, one of the initial steps is understanding the academic requirements, particularly the A levels necessary to pursue a degree in pharmacy.
As a general rule, you’ll need three A levels (or equivalent), including chemistry and one other science or maths subject. Typical offers range from AAB to BBB.
According to the NHS, to study pharmacy at University you’ll typically need:
-
Three A levels, including:
-
Chemistry
-
A second science or maths
-
Offers usually range from AAB to BBB
-
-
Foundation year courses may accept lower grades
-
At least five GCSEs, including:
-
English Language
-
Maths
-
One science subject
-
-
Some universities accept:
-
BTEC Level 3 in Applied Science
-
Access to HE Diploma in science
-
Successful applicants are also expected to demonstrate:
-
Clear communication
-
Teamwork
-
Strong attention to detail
University A Level Requirements for Pharmacy
It is worth checking the entry requirements of the university courses that you are interested in. This can help guide your decision on what A levels you may want to take.
| University | A-Levels Required For Pharmacy | Scottish Highers Required For Pharmacy | IB Required For Pharmacy |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Manchester | AAB (Chemistry + one of Biology, Maths, Physics) | AABBB (Highers) + B (AH Chemistry) | 35 (HL6 Chemistry, HL5 Biology/Maths) |
| University of Strathclyde | AAB (Chemistry, Biology) | AAAB (Highers) + BB (AH Chemistry/Biology) | 36 (HL7 Chemistry, HL6 Biology, HL6 another subject) |
| University College London (UCL) | AAB (Chemistry + one of Biology, Maths, Physics) | Not specified | 36 (HL17 total, Chemistry + 1 science at HL) |
| University of Nottingham | AAB (Chemistry + one of Biology, Maths, Physics) | Not specified | 32 (HL6 Chemistry, HL5 second science) |
| University of Bath | AAB (Chemistry + one other science or maths) | AB (AH Chemistry + one science/maths) | 35 (HL6 Chemistry, HL6 second science/maths) |
| University of Birmingham | AAB (Chemistry + one science) | AABBB (Highers) + BB (AH Chemistry + science) | 32 (HL6 Chemistry, HL5 another science) |
Entry Requirements for Pharmacy
The NHS states what qualifications you may need to enter in the field of pharmacy. For full details you can see the NHS website here.
For university entry, they state you will generally need:
- Three A-levels or equivalent in chemistry and a second science or maths, typically offers range from AAB to BBB.
- Pharmacy degrees with a foundation year may have lower grade requirements.
- GCSEs are considered alongside A-levels, with most schools of pharmacy expecting a minimum of five GCSEs including maths, English language and one science.
- Some universities accept vocational qualifications such as BTEC Level 3, National Extended Diploma in Applied Sciences or the Access to HE Diploma.
There are also certain skills you need to have cultivated such as:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Be able to work as part of a team with other professionals.
- Attention to detail.
Typical UCAS Point Requirements For MPharm
To help prospective students compare what different universities expect, we’ve visualised the typical UCAS Tariff requirements for MPharm programmes across a range of UK institutions. While some universities express their offers in A-level grades, others may use UCAS points.
The chart below provides a general overview, translating common A-level offers into their UCAS point equivalents. This shows how entry standards vary and where your current or predicted grades might align.
Where to Study
Not all universities offer pharmacy, making it a competitive degree to enter. For a complete list of university courses leading to a range of clinical careers, you can review this list on the NHS website.
What are the entry requirements?
It is also worth checking the entry requirements of the university courses that you are interested in. This can help guide your decision on what A levels you may want to take.
University College London Entry Requirements for Pharmacy
University College London offers the Pharmacy MPharm, a programme that integrates pharmaceutical science into practice of clinical pharmacy.
- AAB grade Requirements
- They require A level Chemistry and one of the following: A level Biology, A level Mathematics, or A level Physics
- GCSE English Language and GCSE Mathematics
University of Manchester Pharmacy entry requirements
The University of Manchester offers the Pharmacy MPharm that integrates science and practice.
- AAB grade requirements
- They require A level Chemistry and either A level Mathematics, A level Biology and one further rigorous academic subject.
Which A levels should you take To BECOME A PHARMACIST?
Based on NHS guidance and typical university entry requirements, A level Chemistry is essential. For your remaining two subjects, it’s recommended to choose from Biology, Physics, or Mathematics. If you didn’t meet the required grades, it may be necessary to retake your A Levels to stay on track for a pharmacy degree.
Greene’s solution
At Greene’s we offer all of the necessary subjects for you to thrive in your Pharmacy university applications. Contact us today to hear more.
