Study Pharmacy in Germany
Contents
Whether you're interested in the intricacies of pharmaceutical science or driven by a desire to promote health and wellness, Germany offers an ideal beginning for your pharmacy career. Picture the possibility of studying pharmacy in Germany where you can gain practical experience in state-of-the-art laboratories, and explore the depths of the pharmaceutical field. All of this while residing in a dynamic, diverse country with a rich historical heritage.
Int. Study Programs
Universities
Cities
Why Study Pharmacy in Germany?
Curious about what makes Germany such a promising place to study pharmacy? Why choose Germany over the US, the UK, or your home country? Let's dive into some of the top reasons:
- Germany is known for its high-quality education system. Many of its universities are among the best in the world.
- Compared to other countries, studying in Germany is quite affordable. Many public universities charge little or no tuition for international students.
- If you're interested in the research side of pharmacy, you'll have plenty of opportunities to gain insight into groundbreaking projects. Universities often partner with top pharmaceutical companies, giving you access to cutting-edge labs and resources.
- Germany is home to some of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies such as Bayer and Merck. Studying here can provide you with unique internship and networking opportunities.
- The country is a popular destination for international students. You’ll have the chance to meet people from all over the world and explore beautiful cities, historic sites, and stunning natural landscapes.
English-Taught Courses in Pharmacy Offered for Expats
Good news for those who aren't quite fluent in German yet – studying pharmacy in Germany in English is possible! Many universities offer programs entirely in English, specifically designed for international students. While bachelor’s programs in pharmacy are primarily conducted in German, there are numerous master’s programs and specialized courses available in English. Don't let language be a barrier to finding the perfect program for you in Germany!
University | Master's program |
---|---|
Friedrich Schiller University Jena
|
M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Sciences
|
TU Bergakademie Freiberg
|
M.Sc. in Advanced Materials Analysis
|
University of Göttingen
|
M.Sc. in Cardiovascular Science
|
If you’re set on studying Pharmacy in Germany but need to brush up on your German, check out the preparatory language programs. Many universities offer intensive German language courses to bring you up to the required proficiency level. These programs often include an introduction to academic German and specific terminology used in pharmacy and other sciences.
There are scholarships available for international students who want to study in Germany. Organizations such as the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offer scholarships for programs taught in English. In addition, some universities have their own scholarship programs to support talented international students.
Top Universities for Studying Pharmacy in Germany
Overview of German Degrees in Pharmacy
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Pharmacy
A bachelor's degree in Pharmacy typically takes three to four years to complete. It teaches the basics of chemistry, biology, pharmacy, and related disciplines. However, in Germany Pharmacy is often part of a longer program that leads directly to the Staatsexamen (State Exam).
Staatsexamen in Pharmacy
In Germany, to become a licensed pharmacist, you must pass the state examination (Staatsexamen). This program combines undergraduate and graduate studies into a single, comprehensive curriculum. The Staatsexamen program usually takes about 4 years to complete, including both theoretical and practical training.
The program begins with basic sciences such as chemistry, biology, and physics before moving on to specialized subjects such as pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutics. Throughout your studies, you'll engage in practical training in university labs and pharmacies. At the end of the second year, you’ll take the first state examination (Erstes Staatsexamen). This is followed by a 12-month internship, usually split between work in a pharmacy and work in industry or research. After the practical year, the second state examination (Zweites Staatsexamen) is taken. Once you pass that, you take the third state examination (Drittes Staatsexamen), which is the final step to becoming a licensed pharmacist.
Career paths:
- Community pharmacist: Work in public pharmacies, dispensing medications and advising patients.
- Hospital pharmacist: Work in hospital settings, collaborating with medical teams to manage patient medications.
- Pharmaceutical industry: Roles in drug development, quality control, regulatory affairs and sales.
- Regulatory agencies: Positions within government agencies overseeing drug safety and regulations.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Pharmacy
For those who already have a B.Sc. in Pharmacy or a related field, the master's degree program offers advanced study in specific areas of pharmacy. Options include clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical biotechnology, and drug research. These programs typically last 2 years.
Career paths:
- Clinical pharmacist: Specialized roles in hospitals and healthcare settings, focusing on patient care and medication management.
- Research scientist: Positions in academic or industry research, focusing on drug development and clinical trials.
- Regulatory affairs specialist: Ensuring compliance with drug regulations and laws in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Pharmaceutical consultant: Providing expert advice to healthcare institutions, government bodies, and pharmaceutical companies.
Ph.D. in Pharmacy
If you want to focus on a scientific career, you can get a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Pharmacy or a related field. It usually takes three to five years and you have to complete and defend an independent research thesis.
Career paths:
- Academic researcher/professor: Teaching and conducting research at universities and research institutions.
- Pharmaceutical research and development (R&D): Leading projects in drug discovery and development in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Biotech industry: Advanced roles in biotechnology companies focusing on innovative drug therapies and technologies.
- Scientific advisor/consultant: Providing high-level expertise to pharmaceutical companies, regulatory bodies, and research institutions.
Study Abroad: Pharmacy-Related Studies in Germany
Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
If you're fascinated by the potential of biotechnology to transform healthcare, this program will give you the skills and knowledge to work at the forefront of medical innovation. You'll be involved in the development of new therapies and medicines that could potentially save lives.
- Curriculum: Includes modules on molecular biology, bioinformatics, genetic engineering, and bioprocess technology.
- Hands-on experience: Extensive lab work and research projects in collaboration with leading biotech companies.
- Career opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers in pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutions, and regulatory agencies.
Medicinal Chemistry
Medicinal Chemistry focuses on the development and optimization of drugs for medical applications. You'll be the innovator behind new treatments that can make a real difference in patients' lives. It combines knowledge from chemistry, pharmacy, and medicine.
- Curriculum: Includes courses on organic chemistry, drug design, molecular modeling, and pharmacodynamics.
- Research experience: Extensive lab work and research projects, often in collaboration with pharmaceutical companies.
- Career opportunities: Graduates can work in drug discovery and development, medicinal chemistry research, quality control, and regulatory affairs.
Pharmaceutical Engineering
Pharmaceutical Engineering is all about designing, developing, and manufacturing pharmaceutical products. This field brings together the principles of chemical engineering and pharmaceutical sciences to make drug production processes as efficient as possible.
- Curriculum: Includes courses on process engineering, pharmaceutical technology, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.
- Industry collaboration: Opportunities for internships and projects with leading pharmaceutical companies.
- Career opportunities: Graduates can work in pharmaceutical manufacturing, process development, quality control, and regulatory affairs.
FAQ
What are the language requirements to study Pharmacy in Germany?
Most Pharmacy programs, especially at the undergraduate level, are taught in German. So, it's important to be proficient in German. Here's what you typically need:
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
- Goethe-Zertifikat
Many master's programs and specialty courses are offered in English, making them accessible to international students. Here's what you'll need for these programs:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Cambridge English Qualifications
What are the visa requirements for Pharmacy students?
If you're from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you don't need a visa. But if you're from outside these regions, you'll need one. There are two types: the Student Applicant Visa for those who haven't been admitted to a university yet and the Student Visa for those who have.
To get your visa, first get accepted to a German university. Then make an appointment at the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You'll need to prepare several documents: a completed visa application form, a valid passport, your university acceptance letter, proof of financial resources (such as a blocked account with approximately €11,904), proof of health insurance, academic records, a letter of motivation and proof of language proficiency.
After arriving in Germany, you must register with the local authorities and apply for a residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde within two weeks.
Can international students work in Germany post-graduation?
At the end of your studies, you can apply for an 18-month Job Seeker Visa to look for a job that's a good fit for your qualifications. During this period, you can work in any job to support yourself while you search for a position related to your field of study.
You can then apply for either an EU Blue Card or a work permit once you've found a job that matches your qualifications. The EU Blue Card is a great option for high-skilled workers and offers benefits like a faster path to permanent residency. To qualify, you generally need a job offer with a minimum salary of around € 56,800 per year. If you don’t qualify for the Blue Card, you can apply for a regular residence permit for employment. This means you need to have a job offer that matches your degree.
After working in Germany for a certain amount of time (usually 33 months with an EU Blue Card or 21 months if you have good German language skills), you can apply for a permanent residence permit, which allows you to live and work in Germany indefinitely.
This might also be of interest to you
Study at Humboldt University of Berlin: Your Complete Guide for 2024/2025
Application Process for International Students at Humboldt University Berlin For international students applying to Humboldt University of Berlin,...
Study at LMU Munich: Your Guide to Campus Life, Community, and Admission
Application Process for International Students at LMU Munich The application process for international students varies based on the chosen program....
Technical University of Munich (TUM): 70 Programs Offered in English
Application Process for International Students at TUM The application process at TUM is straightforward but requires early preparation. Key steps...
How To Apply for a Student Residence Permit in Germany in 2024
After the amazing journey of finding your perfect course and making it to Germany, there’s one last thing to sort out for a smooth stay—applying for...
The Ultimate University Packing List for Students Moving to Germany
Did you remember to take all the essential documents? What about that favorite sauce you use in everything, which might be difficult to find once it...
Study at Heidelberg University: 37 Programs Offered in English
Application Process for International Students at Heidelberg University Application deadlines at Heidelberg University depend on the semester for...
Study Business Management in Germany: 300+ Courses for 2024/2025
Dreaming of studying business management in Germany? You’re in good company! While Germany is famous for its cars, sausages, and beer, it’s also...
The German Grading System: A Guide for International Students
If you have done your early education in India, the UK, or any other education system outside of Germany, you're likely familiar with seeing 100% as...