What education and training must a pharmacist complete before licensure in New Jersey?

To become a licensed pharmacist in New Jersey, individuals are required to complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy program. This advanced education provides the necessary knowledge and skills in pharmacology, pharmaceutical care, and patient management, which are critical for the practice of pharmacy.

In addition to obtaining the Pharm.D. degree, candidates must also pass two significant examinations: the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE). The NAPLEX evaluates a candidate’s knowledge and skills in pharmacy practice, while the MPJE assesses understanding of pharmacy law and regulations specific to New Jersey. Successfully completing both of these requirements ensures that the pharmacist is not only knowledgeable about medications and patient care but also well-versed in the legal aspects of pharmacy practice in the state.

This combination of education—a Doctor of Pharmacy degree—and the successful passing of both the NAPLEX and MPJE exams is the standard route to licensure, paving the way for effective and competent practice in the field of pharmacy.