For those who want to work as a pharmacist in Australia, the country gives you two options. The knowledge assessment pathway, or the OPRA Exam path is probably known to quite a few people. But did you know you could skip this path if you get into an APC-accredited pharmacy program in Australia?
That's right. Your second option to work in Australia is to get into a pharmacy program in Australia. You can do this either after your 12th into a B.Pharm program, or even after your B.Pharm, into a Master’s program.
The only catch is it should be an accredited program. Now, what does that mean? Let me break it down for you in this blog. We will discuss these programs and how you can get into them.
We will also discuss the requirements and the steps afterwards. So, let’s start.
Why Accreditation Matters for Pharmacy Degrees
Would you study a course if you knew that there were no guidelines, no recognition and no future of that course? You will not, right? And that is why accreditation is so important. Australia has maintained a very high standard for pharmacy education. This is partly due to their accreditation programs.
What this means is the Australian Pharmacy Council, or the authorizing body for pharmaceutical education in the country, makes sure that the particular pharmacy program fulfils national and international guidelines.
Here's the reason accreditation is important:
- Quality Assurance: This ensures that the programs meet the skill requirements.
- Worldwide Acknowledgement: Many licensed programs are universally recognized. It gives more opportunities for the graduates to pursue job roles or higher education around the world.
- Guideline by the Pharmacy Council of Australia: The council ensures pharmacy education aligns with industry needs and patient safety.
- Get Registration Ready: Graduates from approved programs can register as pharmacists in Australia. This is one of the biggest advantages of taking an accredited pharmacy program.
- Job Opportunities: The quality of education and the registration-ready tag make sure that you are ready for employment as soon as you graduate. Most accredited programs have 80%+ placement rates.
List of Accredited Pharmacy Degree Programs in Australia (2026)
The list below outlines the accredited pharmacy degree programs in Australia, organized by university:
| University | Program Name | Duration | Location | Key Features |
| University of Sydney | Bachelor of Pharmacy | 4 years | Sydney, NSW | Research-focused curriculum |
| Monash University | Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) | 4 years | Melbourne, VIC | Industry placements included |
| University of Queensland | Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) | 4 years | Brisbane, QLD | Strong focus on clinical skills |
| University of Western Australia | Master of Pharmacy | 2 years | Perth, WA | Graduate-entry program |
| Griffith University | Master of Pharmacy | 2 years | Gold Cost | Graduate-entry program |
| University of Canberra | Master of Pharmacy | 2 years | Bruce, Canberra | Graduate-entry program |
The Most Effective Method to Pick the Right Pharmacy Program
Shortlisting colleges is one of the most important parts of the process. There’s a lot you need to consider. But don’t get overwhelmed. We have prepared a list of some of the most important points. You can check them one by one until you find your perfect college.
Consider the following:
- Accreditation by the APC
- University Ranking and Reputation
- Clinical Placement Quality
- Campus Location and Lifestyle
- Placement Rates
- Scholarships and Financial Support
- Explore Course Structure and Specializations
- Hands-on training and research opportunities
- Entry Requirements
Eligibility Requirement For
1. Academic Requirements
For Bachelor’s Programs
- Completed Class 12 or equivalent
E.g., CBSE, ISC, State Boards
- Must have studied:
- Chemistry (mandatory)
- Biology (highly preferred)
- Mathematics or Physics (optional)
- Minimum average: 60–75%. This varies by university.
For Master’s Programs
- A bachelor’s degree in science, biomedical science, or a health-related discipline
- Completion of prerequisite subjects such as:
- Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Human biology
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Mathematics (in some cases)
2. English Language Proficiency
You must provide proof of English ability through one of the following:
| Test | Minimum Requirement |
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 overall |
| TOEFL iBT | 90–94 overall |
| PTE Academic | 58–64 overall |
Some universities may waive the English requirement if you studied in English-medium schools for the past 2–3 years.
What’s After Graduation?
Once you complete your program accredited by the Australian Pharmacy Council, you can start your registration journey with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
Steps to Become a Pharmacist:
- Complete B.Pharm or M.Pharm program accredited by the Australian Pharmacy Council.
- Apply for the internship program.
- Pass the Intern Training Program.
- Clear the Pharmacy Board registration exam.
- Register with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
Pharmacy Career Opportunities for Graduates
After completing the APC-accredited pharmacy program in Australia and registration, you can get into a variety of job roles.
- Community Pharmacist
- Hospital Pharmacist
- Clinical Pharmacist
- Pharmaceutical Researcher
- Regulatory Affairs Officer
| Role / Category | Salary (AUD) | Salary (INR Equivalent) |
| Pharmacist (AHPRA Registered) | 57,000 –177,000/year | ₹31.35L – ₹97.35L/year |
| Early Career (0–3 yrs) | 68,600/year | ₹37.73L/year |
| Mid-Career (5–10 yrs) | 121,000/year | ₹66.55L/year |
| Senior (15–20 yrs) | 56,000/year | ₹85.8L/year |
| Very Experienced (>20 yrs) | 168,000/year | ₹92.4L/year |
| Clinical Pharmacist | 110,000 -145,000/year | ₹60.5L - ₹79.75L/year |
| Pharmacy Manager / Consultant | 150,000+/year | ₹82.5L+/year |
| Industry Roles (Regulatory, R&D, QA) | 117,000-130,000/year | ₹64.35L - ₹71.5L/year |
| Academic / Research Pharmacist | 90,000 -120,000/year (start) | ₹49.5L - ₹66L/year |
| Consultant Pharmacist | Project-based | Competitive pay (often high ₹) |
| Intern Pharmacist (M.Pharm Graduate) | 24 - 28/hr | ₹1,320 - ₹1,540/hr |
Alternative Path To Practice in Australia.
Now, we know that getting into a pharmacy program might not be in everyone’s cards. Does that mean your Australian pharmacy dreams are over? Absolutely not. Australia has another option for overseas-trained pharmacists to practise in the country. And that is through the OPRA exam.
Once you complete your B.Pharm in your home country and get registered there, you are eligible for this exam.
All you need to do is get your eligibility check, register for the exam and pass it.
After passing the OPRA exam, you will follow the same path as that of a fresh graduate from an accredited pharmacy program in Australia.
You need to get your provisional registration, complete your internship and then pass the Intern written exam.
This process is faster and far more economical for many. And with the right OPRA Exam Preparation Course, it can become your reality.
Get Into Your Perfect Accredited Pharmacy Program
For a pharmacy degree program, it is important to pick one that is accredited. Accreditation ensures you get a
- Quality education
- Gain professional respect
- Build skills in your field
- Get eligible for registration
Use this guide to evaluate your options and explore different programs. It is time to take the next step in advancing your pharmacy career. Begin your path today.
