[RXJOE]

Thanks for the clarification Zoggite. It sounds like the pharmacy degree is still a Bachelor's degree over there, whereas in the US it is now required that all new pharmacists graduate with a PharmD degree. This still consists of the 4 years of courses, followed by 2 years of internships, which by the way are not only without salary, but you're actually still paying the college tuition for these 2 years of basically working 40 hours a week!! On top of doing these 2 years of internship, you also must complete at least 1500 hours of "externship" working for pay. This is done throughout the 6 total years of schooling, at whatever pace you want, as long as you complete at least 1500 hours worth altogether. When I worked for a chain, they set the pay rate based on what school year the student is in. First year students would get $8/hr, and every additional year they get a $1/hr increase. After you complete the 6 total years, you still have to take the NABP (National Association of Boards of Pharmacies) exam and pass it before you get a license to practice on your own. During this short period of time between the end of the 6 years and passing the exam, the pay goes up to half the salary of a registered pharmacist. The pay rate of a registered pharmacist over here varies from state to state. It can be anywhere from $100,000-$125,000 annually, and depending on the need of the region or specific area within the region, there can be an additionaly signing bonus and even a car lease thrown in to attract new hires.