3 answers
Chaimaa
Student
Mersin, Mersin Province, Turkey
1
Question
Updated
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which is better an MP or an DP and how do they differ?
Hello everyone im chaimaa a pharmacy student i have been torn wheter to switch from MP to DP i find myself found of clinical work but honestly i dont know what to do ,for people over here studying same or already done any one with more experience than iam i would appreciate your response?
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3 answers
Olivia Alford
I am a Strategic Initiatives Manager. My job is related to strategic planning and am a Project Manager.
6
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
Hi Chaimaa.
Many pharmacy students feel unsure when choosing between MP and DP, so it is completely normal to feel torn, especially when your interests are still developing.
I am not personally in either program, but I am friends with a few people who are, and I have learned a lot from their experiences. From what they have shared, MP programs tend to focus more on pharmaceutical sciences, research, industry, and drug development. DP programs are more focused on clinical practice, patient care, and working closely with healthcare teams. Students who enjoy direct patient interaction and clinical decision-making would feel more fulfilled in the DP track.
One thing I believe helps in any field is paying attention to which parts of training you enjoy most. If you find clinical settings, patient counseling, and applying medical knowledge in real situations exciting, that may be a sign that DP is a good fit. If you prefer lab work, research, or behind-the-scenes roles, MP may be a better fit for your interests.
Before making a decision, consider gathering more information in simple and low-risk ways. Talking with academic advisors, professors, friends, or family in the field, or senior students in both programs, can help. If possible, shadowing or asking questions about daily work in both clinical and non-clinical roles can also provide clarity.
There is no wrong choice, only the one that fits you best. Taking time to learn from others’ experiences will help you make a decision you feel confident about.
Many pharmacy students feel unsure when choosing between MP and DP, so it is completely normal to feel torn, especially when your interests are still developing.
I am not personally in either program, but I am friends with a few people who are, and I have learned a lot from their experiences. From what they have shared, MP programs tend to focus more on pharmaceutical sciences, research, industry, and drug development. DP programs are more focused on clinical practice, patient care, and working closely with healthcare teams. Students who enjoy direct patient interaction and clinical decision-making would feel more fulfilled in the DP track.
One thing I believe helps in any field is paying attention to which parts of training you enjoy most. If you find clinical settings, patient counseling, and applying medical knowledge in real situations exciting, that may be a sign that DP is a good fit. If you prefer lab work, research, or behind-the-scenes roles, MP may be a better fit for your interests.
Before making a decision, consider gathering more information in simple and low-risk ways. Talking with academic advisors, professors, friends, or family in the field, or senior students in both programs, can help. If possible, shadowing or asking questions about daily work in both clinical and non-clinical roles can also provide clarity.
There is no wrong choice, only the one that fits you best. Taking time to learn from others’ experiences will help you make a decision you feel confident about.
Maximus Alexander
2
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Maximus’s Answer
Hey Chaimaa,
I totally get where you're coming from—it’s tough figuring out whether to stick with MP or go for DP. Here’s what I think based on what I’ve heard:
MP: It’s a pretty versatile degree. You still get solid clinical experience, especially if you’re working in community or hospital pharmacies. But it can also lead you into more research, industry, or regulatory roles. So if you like the idea of exploring different sides of pharmacy, this could be a good fit.
DP: If you’re more into patient care and want to dive into the clinical side of things, the DP is probably what you’re looking for. It’s a lot more focused on hands-on work, especially with patients in hospitals or clinics. So if you see yourself working directly with people, managing medications, and making decisions about their care, DP might be the better choice.
Honestly, since you’re really into clinical work, I think DP might be a better match for you, but it depends on how much time and commitment you're ready to put in. Either way, you can still do clinical work with an MP, but DP will likely give you more of that one-on-one, patient-facing experience.
Hope this helps a bit! I’m sure you’ll figure out what feels right for you. Don’t rush, and good luck with your decision!
I totally get where you're coming from—it’s tough figuring out whether to stick with MP or go for DP. Here’s what I think based on what I’ve heard:
MP: It’s a pretty versatile degree. You still get solid clinical experience, especially if you’re working in community or hospital pharmacies. But it can also lead you into more research, industry, or regulatory roles. So if you like the idea of exploring different sides of pharmacy, this could be a good fit.
DP: If you’re more into patient care and want to dive into the clinical side of things, the DP is probably what you’re looking for. It’s a lot more focused on hands-on work, especially with patients in hospitals or clinics. So if you see yourself working directly with people, managing medications, and making decisions about their care, DP might be the better choice.
Honestly, since you’re really into clinical work, I think DP might be a better match for you, but it depends on how much time and commitment you're ready to put in. Either way, you can still do clinical work with an MP, but DP will likely give you more of that one-on-one, patient-facing experience.
Hope this helps a bit! I’m sure you’ll figure out what feels right for you. Don’t rush, and good luck with your decision!
Mary Ehrgott
Pharmacist in HIV specialty setting
15
Answers
Newtown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Definitely PharmD… this is the only degree that leads into obtaining a pharmacist license.