Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharmacy) Syllabus

The Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) is a two-year program followed by a practical training session. The course is designed to prepare students with a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and hands-on experience in various aspects of pharmacy practice. Below is an outline of the syllabus as per the guidelines of the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI):

Year 1: First Year D.Pharmacy

Subjects:

  1. Pharmaceutics-I

    • Introduction to different dosage forms
    • Metrology and pharmaceutical calculations
    • Prescription handling
    • Various pharmaceutical aids and packaging materials

  2. Pharmaceutical Chemistry-I

    • Fundamentals of chemistry
    • Inorganic pharmaceuticals
    • Analytical techniques and reagents

  3. Pharmacognosy

    • Study of medicinal plants and their uses
    • Classification and properties of natural drugs
    • Extraction and isolation of active constituents

  4. Biochemistry and Clinical Pathology

    • Basics of biochemistry
    • Metabolism of biomolecules
    • Enzyme activity
    • Clinical pathology tests

  5. Human Anatomy and Physiology

    • Structure and function of the human body
    • Overview of body systems (circulatory, respiratory, nervous, etc.)
    • Homeostasis and vital processes

  6. Health Education and Community Pharmacy

    • Role of pharmacists in public health
    • Health promotion strategies
    • Environmental and occupational health

Year 2: Second Year D.Pharmacy

Subjects:

  1. Pharmaceutics-II

    • Advanced pharmaceutical dosage forms
    • Storage and stability of drugs
    • Sterile products and surgical dressings

  2. Pharmaceutical Chemistry-II

    • Organic pharmaceuticals
    • Structure, synthesis, and properties of drug molecules
    • Drug interactions

  3. Pharmacology and Toxicology

    • Mechanism of drug action
    • Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
    • Common toxicological effects and treatments

  4. Pharmaceutical Jurisprudence

    • Laws governing pharmacy practice in India
    • Ethics and regulations related to pharmaceuticals
    • Drug and Cosmetic Act, Pharmacy Act

  5. Drug Store and Business Management

    • Basics of business management
    • Inventory control, supply chain management
    • Accounting and finance in pharmacy

  6. Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy

    • Role of pharmacy in hospital and clinical settings
    • Drug distribution systems
    • Patient counseling and medication adherence

Practical Training

  • Internship/Practical Experience:
    After completing the two years of academic study, students are required to undergo 500 hours of practical training over a minimum period of 3 months in a hospital, pharmacy, or pharmaceutical manufacturing unit approved by the PCI.

Assessment and Examinations

  • Theory and Practical Examinations: Conducted at the end of each academic year.
  • Internal Assessments: Periodic evaluations through assignments, quizzes, and tests.

Career Pathways After D.Pharmacy

After completing the D.Pharmacy course, students can pursue careers as:

  • Community Pharmacists
  • Hospital Pharmacists
  • Medical Representatives
  • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Assistants
  • Entrepreneurs (starting their own pharmacy)

They may also choose to continue their education by pursuing a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) for advanced career opportunities.