Question

Residencies for pharmacists are not mandatory, so why should a student consider doing one?  What are the benefits?

Answer 1

To be more competitive. Even though there may not be any real advantages pay wise, you will be more marketable and competitive to employers. Plus if you are considering a more clinical role or even specializing, then having done a residency will work in your favor. It will help to expand your knowledge base and provide you with the right tools to adequately handle situations regarding drugs and patient care in your chosen specialty.

Answer 2

Residencies are the future of the profession. In 10-15 years, each pharmacy student will be presented with options very similar to that of medical students. During this period, residencies will become increasingly more important to earn a job in a specific field.

It is best to chose one now rather than not have one in the future.