Job Hunt Series | Part-2 | Career Choices for Pharmacy Graduates in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Overview

Imagine standing at the crossroads of your career, a fresh pharmacy graduate with dreams as vast as the horizon. The journey to this point has been filled with late-night study sessions, countless exams, and the unwavering support of family and friends. Now, as you hold your degree in hand, the world of pharmacy opens up before you, offering a myriad of paths to explore.

For example, meet Suriya, a recent pharmacy graduate from Karachi. Like many of her peers, Suriya is passionate about making a difference in the world of healthcare. She dreams of a career where she can use her knowledge to improve patient outcomes and contribute to the advancement of medical science. But with so many options available, Suriya feels overwhelmed. Should she work in a hospital, where she can be on the front lines of patient care? Or perhaps in a community pharmacy, where she can build lasting relationships with her patients? The pharmaceutical industry also beckons, with its promise of innovation and cutting-edge research.

Suriya's story is not unique. Every year, thousands of pharmacy graduates in Pakistan face the same dilemma. The field of pharmacy offers a wide range of career opportunities, each with its own set of challenges and rewards. In this article, we will explore some of the most promising career options for pharmacy graduates in Pakistan, along with the rationale behind choosing them. Whether you are drawn to the clinical environment of a hospital, the community-focused role of a pharmacist, or the innovative world of pharmaceutical research, there is a path for everyone.

 Overall Overview of Pharmaceutical Industry of Pakistan: the pharmaceutical industry in Pakistan was estimated to be worth Rs. 748 billion (US$2.6 billion) in 2023, representing about 1% of the country's GDP. The industry is largely import-dependent, with more than 90% of raw material being imported and only 12% of APIs locally produced. Pakistani pharmaceutical companies are engaged in importing raw materials, compounding APIs with excipients, coating of pills, and fill-finish activities. The industry is regulated by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, which oversees drug approvals and pricing. Pakistan imports all specialized finished dosage forms, vaccines, and biologicals. An ICAP report estimated that the Pakistani pharmaceutical industry has a 50-60% import reliance on India. Pakistan exported pharmaceutical products worth about $235 million in 2023, mostly to a few less-regulated markets in Africa and Southeast Asia.

There are approximately 620 manufacturing pharmaceutical companies in Pakistan. This includes both national and multinational companies. The pharmaceutical industry in Pakistan is quite diverse, with local manufacturers controlling around 70-75% of the market, while multinational companies hold the remaining share.

Registered Pharmacists in Pakistan: Let’s have look at registered Pharmacists till to date; As per Pakistan Pharmacy Council, registered pharmacists in Category A register are:

KPK: 9,381, Sindh: 18,003, Punjab: 34,000, Baluchistan: 2,447, Gilgit-Baltistan: 44, Total: 63,875 till-to-date.

 As a fresh pharmacy graduate in Pakistan, you are stepping into a world of diverse and exciting career opportunities. The field of pharmacy offers a wide range of paths that cater to different interests and skills. Here are some of the most promising career options for pharmacy graduates in Pakistan and the rationale behind choosing them:

 Pulse Check: recently I have asked fresh graduates to utilize a short survey to investigate the career preferences of recent pharmacy graduates. It specifically inquiries about their ideal career path within the pharmacy field.

The survey results indicate that 44% of respondents express interest in pursuing careers in industrial, production, quality assurance, or quality control roles, followed by 25% who favor hospital, clinical, or community pharmacy settings. Additionally, 15% of respondents show interest in academic or research positions, while 16% express a preference for careers in sales, marketing, or medical liaison.

1. Hospital Pharmacy Hospital pharmacists play a crucial role in patient care by ensuring the safe and effective use of medications. They work closely with doctors and nurses to provide optimal drug therapy and manage medication-related issues.

Pros: Direct impact on patient care. Collaborative work environment with healthcare professionals. Opportunities for specialization in areas like oncology or critical care.

Cons: High-stress environment. Irregular working hours, including nights and weekends. Requires continuous education and training.

Future Prospects: Increasing demand for specialized pharmacists in areas such as oncology, critical care, and infectious diseases. Opportunities for career advancement into management or clinical specialist roles.

Required Skills and Competencies: Strong clinical knowledge and attention to detail. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work under pressure and manage time effectively.

Expected Salary Ranges

Entry-Level: PKR 31,000 - PKR 49,100 per month

Mid-Career: PKR 50,000 - PKR 96,100 per month

Experienced: PKR 97,000 - PKR 160,000 per month

2. Community Pharmacy: Community pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals for the public. They dispense medications, provide patient counseling, and offer health advice.

Pros: High level of patient interaction. Regular working hours. Opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients.

Cons: Repetitive tasks. High volume of work during peak hours. Limited opportunities for specialization.

Future Prospects: Growing demand for community pharmacists due to increasing healthcare needs and aging population.

As per DRAP CEO, 90% Pharmacies are working without Pharmacists, it shows a wide range of opportunities in Community Pharmacy. Opportunities to expand services, such as offering vaccinations and health screenings.

Required Skills and Competencies: Strong customer service and communication skills. Ability to manage inventory and handle administrative tasks. Knowledge of over-the-counter medications and health products.

Expected Salary Ranges:

Entry-Level: PKR 30,000 - PKR 45,000 per month

Mid-Career: PKR 46,000 - PKR 80,000 per month

Experienced: PKR 81,000 - PKR 120,000 per month

 3. Pharmaceutical Industry The pharmaceutical industry offers various roles, including research and development, quality control, regulatory affairs, and sales and marketing. Working in the industry allows pharmacists to be at the forefront of drug development and innovation.

Pros: Diverse career opportunities. Involvement in cutting-edge research and development. Competitive salaries and benefits.

Cons: High-pressure environment. Requires advanced degrees or specialized training. Limited patient interaction.

Future Prospectus: Continued growth in the pharmaceutical industry with increasing investment in research and development. Opportunities for career advancement into leadership and management roles.

Required Skills and Competencies: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of regulatory requirements and quality standards. Ability to work in a team and manage projects effectively.

Expected Salary Ranges:

Research and Development (R&D): PKR 50,000 - PKR 150,000 per month

Quality Control and Assurance: PKR 40,000 - PKR 120,000 per month

Regulatory Affairs: PKR 60,000 - PKR 180,000 per month

Manufacturing: PKR 40,000 - PKR 120,000 per month

Sales and Marketing: PKR 35,000 - PKR 100,000 per month

4. Academia and Research Pharmacy graduates can pursue careers in academia and research, where they can teach future pharmacists and conduct research to advance the field.

Pros: Opportunities to contribute to scientific knowledge. Flexible working hours. Potential for academic recognition and advancement.

Cons: Requires advanced degrees (e.g., PhD). Competitive job market. Limited patient interaction.

Future Prospects: Increasing demand for pharmacy educators and researchers due to the growing number of pharmacy schools and research institutions. Opportunities for collaboration with international research projects and organizations.

Required Skills and Competencies: Strong research and analytical skills. Ability to teach and mentor students effectively. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Expected Salary Ranges:

Lecturer: PKR 40,000 - PKR 80,000 per month

Assistant Professor: PKR 80,000 - PKR 150,000 per month

Professor: PKR 150,000 - PKR 300,000 per month

5. Regulatory Affairs Regulatory affairs professionals ensure that pharmaceutical products comply with all regulations and standards. They work with government agencies and industry stakeholders to navigate the complex regulatory landscape. A regulatory affairs specialist may work with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan to ensure that new medications meet safety and efficacy standards.

Pros: Involvement in policy-making and regulatory processes. Opportunities for career advancement. Competitive salaries.

Cons: Requires strong analytical and communication skills. High-pressure environment. Limited patient interaction.

Future Prospects: Growing demand for regulatory affairs professionals due to increasing regulatory requirements and global market expansion. Opportunities for career advancement into senior regulatory and compliance roles.

Required Skills and Competencies: Strong understanding of regulatory guidelines and standards. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to communicate effectively with regulatory authorities and stakeholders.

Expected Salary Ranges:

Entry-Level: PKR 50,000 - PKR 80,000 per month

Mid-Career: PKR 81,000 - PKR 150,000 per month

Experienced: PKR 151,000 - PKR 250,000 per month

6. Clinical Pharmacy Clinical pharmacists work in healthcare settings to optimize medication therapy for patients. They are involved in direct patient care, conducting medication reviews, and providing drug information to healthcare professionals.

Pros: Direct impact on patient outcomes. Collaborative work environment. Opportunities for specialization.

Cons: Requires continuous education and training. High-stress environment. Irregular working hours.

Future Prospects: Increasing demand for clinical pharmacists in hospitals and healthcare settings. Opportunities for specialization in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and infectious diseases.

Required Skills and Competencies: Strong clinical knowledge and critical thinking skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work in a team and manage complex medication regimens.

Expected Salary Ranges:

Entry-Level: PKR 40,000 - PKR 70,000 per month

Mid-Career: PKR 71,000 - PKR 120,000 per month

Experienced: PKR 121,000 - PKR 200,000 per month

7.v Pharmaceutical Sales and Marketing Pharmaceutical sales representatives promote and sell medications to healthcare professionals and institutions. This career offers opportunities for those who have strong communication and interpersonal skills and enjoy a dynamic and challenging work environment.

Pros: High earning potential. Opportunities for travel and networking. Dynamic and fast-paced work environment.

Cons: High-pressure sales targets. Requires strong communication and persuasion skills. Limited patient interaction.

Future Prospects: Continued growth in the pharmaceutical industry with increasing demand for sales and marketing professionals. Opportunities for career advancement into sales management and marketing leadership roles.

Required Skills and Competencies: Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to build and maintain relationships with healthcare professionals. Knowledge of pharmaceutical products and market dynamics.

Expected Salary Ranges:

Medical Representative/Marketing Executive: PKR 30,000 - PKR 60,000 per month

First Line Leader/Product Manager: PKR 60,000 - PKR 120,000 per month

Sales Manager/Marketing Manager: PKR 80,000 - PKR 150,000 per month

[NOTE: These salary ranges can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific employer. If you have any specific questions or need more detailed information about any of these roles, feel free to ask!]

8. Abroad Job Opportunities for Pharmacy Graduates Pharmacy graduates in Pakistan also have numerous opportunities to work abroad. These opportunities can provide valuable international experience and exposure to different healthcare systems.

Pharmacy Internships Abroad Pharmacy internships abroad are clinical placements undertaken in fast-paced, under-resourced hospitals in the developing world. These internships help pharmacy students expand their clinical knowledge, develop confidence and resourcefulness, build personal and professional networks, and sharpen communication skills. Internships are available in various locations across Asia and Africa

High-Paying Careers Abroad Pharmacy graduates can explore high-paying careers in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. These countries offer diverse opportunities in hospital pharmacy, community pharmacy, pharmaceutical industry, academia, and regulatory affairs. Working abroad can provide competitive salaries, advanced training, and opportunities for career growth

Pharmaceutical Jobs Abroad Pharmaceutical companies abroad often look for candidates with higher education and specific skills. Pharmacy graduates can find opportunities in research and development, quality control, regulatory affairs, and sales and marketing. These roles offer the chance to work in a global environment and contribute to the development of new medications. 

Rationale for Choosing a Career in Pharmacy

The rationale for choosing a career in pharmacy varies depending on individual interests and goals. Here are some common reasons why pharmacy graduates choose these career paths:

Impact on Patient Care: Many pharmacy graduates are driven by the desire to improve patient health and well-being. Careers in hospital and community pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, and academia allow them to make a direct impact on patient care.

Diverse Opportunities: The field of pharmacy offers a wide range of career options, allowing graduates to find a path that aligns with their interests and skills. Whether it's working in a hospital, conducting research, or promoting medications, there is something for everyone.

Innovation and Advancement: Careers in the pharmaceutical industry and regulatory affairs provide opportunities to be at the forefront of drug development and innovation. Graduates who are passionate about science and technology can contribute to the advancement of healthcare.

Professional Growth: The pharmacy profession offers numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. Graduates can pursue further education, certifications, and specializations to enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Fresh pharmacy graduates in Pakistan have a wealth of career options to choose from. By understanding the different paths available and the rationale behind choosing them, graduates can make informed decisions about their future. Embrace the journey ahead with confidence and passion, knowing that you have the potential to make a significant impact on healthcare and patient well-being. Your career in pharmacy is not just a job; it's a commitment to improving lives and advancing the field of medicine.

In last, I suggest Pharmacy institutes of Pakistan should involve in preparations of their passing out grads by fulfilling their need for a more industry-oriented insights and requirements. To achieve this, the institutes should revise their syllabi to include sales and marketing modules, organize guest speaker sessions and mentorship programs, facilitate internships with leading pharmaceutical companies, and conduct workshops on resume/interview preparation and personality development. These measures will bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that pharmacy graduates are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the dynamic pharmaceutical landscape.

 For those seeking career counselling and mentoring, you can contact at ayaz.khaskheli@gmail.com.

Pharmacy Mentors RxConnect Pk Pakistan Pharmacists Association The Pakistan Society of Health-System Pharmacists (PSHP) Pharmacists Federation (Pakistan ) Reg. under Society Registration Act 1960 PAKISTAN PHARMACISTS COMMUNITY Pakistan Pharmacist Federation