Earn a pre-pharmacy associate degree and transfer directly to pharmacy school! There is a high demand for well-paid pharmacists in community pharmacies as well as drug companies. Many QCC students also receive scholarships to attend pharmacy school.

Program Overview

What Will You Learn?

Associate in Arts

In this program, you will learn the basic science and math skills to succeed in pharmacy school. You will use modern equipment to create and analyze many drug compounds.

Cost

In-State Tuition: $223/credit

Out-of-State / International Tuition: $429/credit

Some programs have additional program fees

Timeline

5 Semesters

73 credits

QCC's pre-pharmacy program was my first choice because it was highly recommended by my wife who herself was a QCC student and followed the same steps. The support and quality of teaching she received from faculty and the other professors were beyond all expectations. In the end, I felt that the success of my project was assured because QCC will bring me everything I need to succeed and I should just add hard work to it. 

- Wilfrid Fotso Tasse, Pre-Pharmacy Student

Learn Online

  • This program may be completed 50% or more online.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

Locations

  • This program may be completed at QCC Worcester (Main Campus).
  • This program may be completed face-to-face.

Career Stats

Have more questions?

We're here to help! Reach out to the following for support.

More Info

Program Goals:

The General Studies - Pre-Pharmacy Option provides students with the first two years of a strong academic foundation required for transfer directly to a Doctor of Pharmacy Program or to bachelor’s degree programs in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the academic and technical skills necessary for admission to a four- or six-year pharmacy program.
  • Demonstrate the ability to be an effective team member.
  • Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Understand the fundamental scientific principles necessary for continuation in pharmacology or a related field.
  • Demonstrate a high standard of math competency.
  • Utilize critical thinking and scientific methodology.
  • Demonstrate application of scientific knowledge to common pharmacy and biological sciences practices.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

Career Outlook:

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 51.1103.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.

Program Page

The General Studies Program is unique in that it attempts to meet the academic needs of QCC career programs, four-year transfer institutions, and area employers. It has been designed to develop broad-based academic and employability skills. It provides a comprehensive, responsive, directed academic experience in which students identify educational and career choices, develop individualized career plans (CAPS), and implement career pathways leading to further education or careers. In addition, the QCC General Studies Program has articulation and transfer agreements with numerous colleges and universities. The General Studies Program allows students to tailor the selection or courses to meet the requirements of a transfer institution. It also provides students with the opportunity to tailor a program of study to meet specific professional/ career competencies.

Remember that all of the information contained on this site pertains to the most recent program requirements. Your requirements may differ because you must meet the requirements that were in effect when you entered the program. You may petition the Registrar if you wish to follow curriculum changes different from what you see in your degree audit.

Remember that in addition to the General Studies Program there are several options available in General Studies. You can find the description and the course requirements below.

Also, we have several additional links you will find useful:

Transferring to a 4-year college / University

We intend to make this website as useful as possible, please contact the General Studies Coordinator Marilyn Martin marilynm@qcc.mass.edu with ideas to improve the usefulness of this page.

Course Requirements

Learn More

Reach out to us to learn more.