Answer:
Yes, it is possible to go to a community college for two years and then attend pharmacy school without having a bachelor's degree. Here's a step-by-step explanation:
1. Community College: Start by enrolling in a community college and completing a two-year program, typically an associate degree. Some community colleges offer specific pre-pharmacy or pre-pharmacy transfer programs designed to prepare students for admission to pharmacy school.
2. Prerequisite Courses: During your time at the community college, you will need to complete the necessary prerequisite courses for pharmacy school. These courses typically include subjects such as chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics, and humanities.
3. Transfer: After completing your two-year program and meeting the prerequisite course requirements, you can apply to transfer to a four-year pharmacy school. Each pharmacy school may have its own admission requirements, so it's essential to research and understand the specific prerequisites and transfer process for the schools you're interested in.
4. Pharmacy School: Once accepted into a pharmacy school, you will embark on a professional pharmacy program, which typically takes an additional four years to complete. This program will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a pharmacist.
5. PharmD Degree: Upon successful completion of the pharmacy school program, you will earn a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. The PharmD degree is the professional degree required to become a licensed pharmacist in most countries, including the United States.
It's important to note that while it is possible to pursue pharmacy school without a bachelor's degree, some pharmacy schools may prefer or require applicants to have a bachelor's degree. Additionally, admission to pharmacy school is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. It's advisable to research and contact the specific pharmacy schools you're interested in for their admission criteria and requirements.