University of Auckland

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) is a comprehensive programme that combines foundational biomedical science with applied pharmacy practice. Early years focus on chemistry, human physiology, biochemistry and pharmacology to build a scientific understanding of how medicines work. Core pharmacy topics include pharmaceutics (formulation and compounding), clinical pharmacokinetics, therapeutics, pharmacy law and ethics, medicines management and patient counselling.

Practical skills are developed through simulated pharmacy environments, compounding laboratories and supervised clinical placements in community and hospital settings across Auckland. The honours component or final year typically includes a substantial research project or advanced practice module that emphasises critical appraisal, research methods and evidence‑based practice.

• Pharmaceutical chemistry and formulation
• Pharmacology and toxicology
• Clinical therapeutics and prescribing practice
• Pharmacy practice, communication and counselling skills
• Law, ethics and professional practice
• Research methods and an honours research project or advanced practice placement

Entry requirements

Admission requires meeting the University of Auckland's general undergraduate entry standards plus programme prerequisites. Applicants normally need a strong background in chemistry; biological sciences and mathematics are highly recommended. Domestic applicants typically present NCEA, CIE or NZQA equivalents with the necessary subject credits, while international applicants should present recognised secondary or tertiary qualifications that demonstrate comparable academic preparation.

Selection may also consider academic performance in prior tertiary study where relevant. Successful applicants should expect to satisfy any additional professional requirements such as immunisation, health screening and police vetting that are required for clinical placements. Prospective students should check the University’s official admissions pages for precise entry pathways and details on how to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for registration and practice as pharmacists and for roles across a broad healthcare and pharmaceutical sector. Common career destinations include community and hospital pharmacy, primary care and general practice settings, and specialised clinical pharmacy services. Graduates also move into roles in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry (manufacturing, quality assurance, regulatory affairs), clinical research and trials, public health, policy and medicines information services.

The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study (clinical pharmacy, pharmacology, pharmaceutics, public health or research degrees) for those interested in academic or specialist clinical careers.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland’s School of Pharmacy is New Zealand’s established pharmacy teaching and research unit, offering strong links with local health providers and industry that support clinical placements and experiential learning. Teaching combines laboratory‑based practical work, simulated practice environments and real‑world placements across a large metropolitan health system.

Students benefit from access to dedicated pharmacy simulation suites, compounding and pharmaceutics laboratories and active research groups in pharmacology, pharmaceutics and pharmacotherapy. The programme is designed to meet professional practice standards within New Zealand and to equip graduates with the clinical and scientific skills employers seek.

Prospective students should review the University of Auckland’s programme pages for further details on curriculum structure, placement arrangements and professional accreditation information.