The pharmacy field is diverse, merging science, healthcare, technology, and ethics into one broad profession. From clinical and industrial pharmacy to community, hospital, and regulatory roles, there’s no shortage of opportunities for those looking to make an impact. For example, community pharmacists offer medication counselling, manage prescriptions, and provide health screenings. Hospital pharmacists, meanwhile, work alongside healthcare teams to ensure patients receive the most effective treatments.
To excel in these varied roles, aspiring pharmacists need a strong foundation across all aspects of the profession. For those seeking to gain competence in all fields of modern pharmacy and launch their careers, a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) at the University of Szeged’s Faculty of Pharmacy could be the ideal step.
Nestled in Szeged, Hungary’s sunniest town, the University of Szeged, ranked #11 in Eastern Europe, has a history of over 100 years in pharmacy education. The Faculty of Pharmacy is the second oldest in Hungary. It offers a practice-centred approach that ensures students are equipped not just with theoretical knowledge but also with the hands-on skills they need to thrive. The small cohort sizes foster an intimate learning environment, allowing for personalised attention from professors and effective learning experiences.
“Szeged is a quiet, beautiful, and friendly city that I consider my second hometown,” says student Cui Zuhao from China. “In Szeged, you can meet people from around the world. There are many facilities to develop your hobbies here, and various festivals will make you fall in love with traditional Hungarian culture.”
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Over the past few years, fifth-year pharmacy student Cui Zuhao from China has been deeply inspired by the university’s rigorous academics, dedicated professors, and their high standards. Source: University of Szeged
Its five-year PharmD programme begins with a foundation in basic sciences, gradually progressing into specialised topics like medicinal plant studies, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. As the faculty is part of international research partnerships, students at Szeged stay up-to-date with the latest scientific advancements. Practical experiences in natural and medical sciences are an integral part of the curriculum, giving students the confidence to tackle real-world challenges.
The university’s Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical Sciences offers five distinct PhD training programmes, each focused on a specific area of research. Whether students are interested in pharmacognosy, pharmaceutical analysis, pharmacology, biopharmacy, clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical chemistry, or pharmaceutical technology, there are many opportunities to deepen their knowledge and specialise further. The programme encourages exploration, allowing students to gain expertise across different fields while receiving individualised support from highly qualified instructors.
With 95% of the faculty holding PhDs, students at Szeged benefit from learning directly from experts in the field. The university’s strong commitment to research and practice ensures that graduates are prepared to step into various professional roles with confidence.
“At this university, everyone — from the professors and administrators to the students — fosters a warm and supportive environment,” says Fatemeh Sheihaki Jaski, a fifth-year pharmacy student from Iran. “While undeniably challenging, the field of pharmaceutical science has transformed my academic journey into one of joy and discovery rather than a mere succession of classes and textbooks.”
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To draw the best talent from around the world, the university offers an “Excellence in Pharmacy Scholarship” for international students pursuing the foreign language pharmacy programme. Source: University of Szeged
The faculty’s impact is evident in the success of Szeged’s graduates. Not only are they sought after by pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions, but their practical experience in medication dispensing, drug counselling, and patient care makes them valuable contributors to healthcare teams. In Szeged and across the world, they’re ready to thrive in one of the most fulfilling, best-paying professions in the EU and beyond.
“I’m proud to be part of a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic curriculum and commitment to producing highly skilled pharmacists,” says Fatemeh Ghorbani, a fourth-year student from Iran. “I’m confident that my dedication, academic achievements, and practical experiences make me an excellent pharmacy student, ready to contribute to the advancement of pharmaceutical science and provide exceptional patient care.”
Youjin Oh, a fourth-year student from South Korea, agrees. “This experience laid the foundation for my scientific knowledge and has been a great help in my studies of pharmaceutical fields,” she says. “I sincerely appreciate the dedication of my faculty, administrators, and professors. Szeged is a quiet, serene, and beautiful city with friendly people.”
For those who may feel unprepared for the five-year PharmD programme or need additional support, the University of Szeged offers an eight-month preparatory course for Pharmacy Studies, which begins every October. This programme is designed for students who want to improve their English language skills or need to strengthen their knowledge of basic sciences before diving into the full degree programme.
The first four months focus on English language development, alongside an introduction to Hungarian language and culture. The second half of the programme covers the natural sciences, such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Those who complete the course do not need to take the entrance examination for pharmacy training.
Learn more about the University of Szeged’s Faculty of Pharmacy.
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