What is D.Pharm?
Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) is a 2-year course that prepares students to work as pharmacists. It is the basic and minimum qualification required to become a registered pharmacist in India. This course mainly focuses on medicines, dispensing, and pharmacy practice, not advanced research or industry work.
After completing D.Pharm and registering with the State Pharmacy Council, a person can legally work in a pharmacy.
Who Can Do D.Pharm? (Eligibility)
Students who have passed 10+2 with Physics and Chemistry, along with Biology or Mathematics, can apply for D.Pharm. Most colleges require around 45–50% marks, but this depends on the institute. There is no strict age limit, but the student must meet the college’s admission rules.
Course Duration and Training
The D.Pharm course is completed in two academic years. Along with classroom teaching and practical labs, students must complete compulsory practical training in a hospital or pharmacy. This training helps students understand how a real pharmacy works, how prescriptions are handled, and how patients are guided.
Subjects Studied in D.Pharm
In the first year, students learn the basics of pharmacy such as how medicines are prepared, basic drug chemistry, natural medicines, and how the human body works.
In the second year, the focus shifts to how drugs act in the body, how medicines are used to treat diseases, pharmacy laws, hospital pharmacy, and community pharmacy. These subjects help students understand both medicine use and legal responsibility.
Career Options After D.Pharm
After completing D.Pharm and registration, students can work as pharmacists in medical stores, private hospitals, and government hospitals. Many also work as medical representatives or assistants in pharmaceutical companies. D.Pharm holders are especially needed in retail pharmacies, both in cities and rural areas.
Students who want to study further can take lateral entry into the second year of B.Pharm.
Who Should Choose D.Pharm?
D.Pharm is best for students who:
a) Want to start working early
b) Are interested in running or working in a medical store
c) Prefer practical work over long academic study
D.Pharm is a simple, job-oriented pharmacy course. It gives legal permission to work as a pharmacist and provides stable employment opportunities.
Read about eligibility and admission criteria about B. Pharmacy.