Studying Medicine: Pharmaceutical Job Orientation

Are you pondering the reasons behind the decision to study medicine? Curious about the diverse career opportunities that the pharmaceutical industry offers?

In this article by Aniday, we delve into the captivating world of pharmacy, shedding light on the question, "Why do you study medicine?" We'll explore the various facets of this field, from defining the pharmaceutical industry to job orientations, specializations, salary prospects, and top-notch training institutions. 

What is pharmacy?

Before delving into the reasons for studying medicine, let's begin with Aniday's definition of the pharmaceutical industry. Pharmacy encompasses:

• The science that investigates substances with physiological effects on the body, their uses, and potential side effects.
• Various subfields, including pharmacology, medicinal materials, pharmacopeia, pharmaceutical management, pharmacoeconomics, clinical pharmacy, sports pharmacy, and basic and applied pharmacology.

Job orientation for pharmacy students

Pharmacy students can choose from a wide array of career paths based on their abilities, interests, and career aspirations. To address the question of "Why do you study medicine?" Aniday outlines several typical job orientations for pharmacy students:

Hospital

• Engage with doctors, nurses, and patients, actively participating in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of diseases. 
• Responsibilities include providing drug information, monitoring drug efficacy and safety. 
• Contributing to medical education and research.

Medical school

• Facilitate training activities for medical and pharmacy students, as well as postgraduate and continuing education programs.
• Engage in scientific research related to pharmacology, such as developing new drugs and evaluating their effectiveness.

Institutes and testing centers

• Conduct tests on the quality, properties, and ingredients of drugs, chemicals, and biological products. Participate in research projects and develop new testing methods.

Production facilities

• Manage resources, personnel, and equipment related to the production process. 
• Responsibilities include planning, design, quality control, research, and development of new products.

Distribution company or private pharmacy

• Handle sales, consultation, and customer care on drug-related matters. 
• Manage inventory, assess drug quality, and conduct marketing and promotional activities.

Specialization in pharmacology

Alt: main specializations 

For those seeking more insight into "What's the point of studying medicine?" it's essential to understand the numerous specialties within pharmacy. The pharmaceutical industry encompasses several distinct areas, each with its unique characteristics and requirements. Here are some common pharmacy majors:

Pharmacy

• Focuses on the study of substances' physiological effects on the body, their uses, and side effects. 
• Includes pharmacology, medicinal materials, pharmacopeia, pharmaceutical management, and clinical pharmacy.

Pharmaceutical Science

• Concentrates on researching the structure, properties, and reactions of chemical substances related to drugs. 
• Graduates can work in pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, or drug production and quality testing.

Biotechnology 

• Involves research aimed at producing medically valuable products, such as vaccines, antibiotics, hormones, enzymes, and biological drugs. 
• Career opportunities include working in biotech companies, research institutes, or involvement in the production and quality control of biological products.

Chemistry

• Focuses on the study of elements, molecules, and chemical reactions. 
• Graduates can find employment in chemical companies, research institutes, or roles related to chemical production and quality control.

Salary in the pharmaceutical industry

Salaries in the pharmaceutical industry in Singapore can vary significantly depending on factors such as job role, experience, education, and the specific company. Here is an overview of salary ranges for different positions in the pharmaceutical sector in Singapore:

1. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative:

•  Entry-level: SGD 30,000 - SGD 50,000 per year
•  Experienced: SGD 60,000 - SGD 120,000 per year
•  Senior Sales Manager: SGD 100,000 - SGD 200,000+ per year

2. Pharmacist:

•  Junior Pharmacist: SGD 45,000 - SGD 70,000 per year
•  Senior Pharmacist: SGD 80,000 - SGD 120,000 per year
•  Hospital Pharmacist: SGD 60,000 - SGD 100,000 per year

3. Research Scientist (Pharmaceutical R&D):

•  Entry-level: SGD 40,000 - SGD 70,000 per year
•  Experienced: SGD 80,000 - SGD 150,000 per year
•  Research Director: SGD 150,000 - SGD 300,000+ per year

4. Quality Assurance (QA) Specialist:

•  QA Analyst: SGD 40,000 - SGD 70,000 per year
•  QA Manager: SGD 80,000 - SGD 120,000 per year
•  Head of QA: SGD 120,000 - SGD 200,000+ per year

5. Regulatory Affairs Specialist:

•  Entry-level: SGD 40,000 - SGD 70,000 per year
•  Experienced: SGD 70,000 - SGD 120,000 per year
•  Director of Regulatory Affairs: SGD 120,000 - SGD 250,000+ per year

6. Clinical Research Associate (CRA):

•  CRA I (Entry-level): SGD 40,000 - SGD 70,000 per year
•  CRA II (Experienced): SGD 70,000 - SGD 120,000 per year
•  Senior CRA: SGD 100,000 - SGD 180,000+ per year

7. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing:

•  Production Operator: SGD 25,000 - SGD 45,000 per year
•  Production Supervisor: SGD 50,000 - SGD 80,000 per year
•  Production Manager: SGD 80,000 - SGD 150,000+ per year

8. Medical Affairs Specialist:

•  Medical Science Liaison (MSL): SGD 60,000 - SGD 120,000 per year
•  Medical Affairs Manager: SGD 100,000 - SGD 180,000 per year
•  Head of Medical Affairs: SGD 150,000 - SGD 250,000+ per year

These salary ranges are approximate and can vary depending on the specific company, location within Singapore, and individual qualifications. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry in Singapore is highly dynamic, and salaries may change over time due to market conditions and demand for specific roles.

Top pharmacy schools

If you're still contemplating "Why do you study medicine?" and are interested in the pharmaceutical industry, consider enrolling in one of these reputable training institutions:

• National University of Singapore (NUS) 
• Nanyang Technological University (NTU) 
• Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
• Taylor's University - Although based in Malaysia

In conclusion, pharmacy is a diverse and promising field of study, offering numerous career avenues for those who choose to pursue it. Whether you're contemplating "Why do you study medicine?" or seeking information on the pharmaceutical industry, Aniday's article serves as a comprehensive guide. 

With an array of specialties, competitive salaries, and esteemed training institutions, pharmacy provides exciting opportunities for personal and professional development. Explore this dynamic field with Aniday's insights and embark on a fulfilling journey in the world of medicine.