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Pharmacy assistantPharmacy technician
Approx. starting salary£24,000£28,000
Degree requirementNot usually requiredNot usually required
Typical routeGCSE, Apprenticeship, Other routesGCSE, Apprenticeship, Other routes
Work environmentHealthcareHealthcare
People interactionYesYes
Hands-on workYesYes
ResearchLess soLess so
Career progressionWith experience and a recognised qualification, you could become a senior pharmacy assistant, supervisor or manager. Further training can lead to work as a pharmacy technician.You could become a lead pharmacy technician or department manager, or specialise in clinical work, oncology, paediatrics or clinical trials. Other options include pharmaceutical production, research and development, or training others. Becoming a pharmacist needs further study.

Salary figures are approximate guidance only.

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