What is the minimum number of hours of apprenticeship required for pharmacist licensure?

The minimum number of hours of apprenticeship required for pharmacist licensure in Illinois is 400 hours. This requirement is structured to ensure that aspiring pharmacists gain sufficient practical experience under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, which is critical in developing their skills and understanding the responsibilities associated with the profession. The apprenticeship, or internship, is designed to expose them to various aspects of pharmacy practice, including patient care, medication management, and pharmacy operations, laying a solid foundation for their future practice as licensed pharmacists.

In many jurisdictions, such hours are mandated to ensure that candidates are adequately prepared to meet the demands of the profession, which includes not only providing medications but also serving as a resource for drug information and patient counseling. Hence, the 400-hour requirement aligns with the goal of ensuring competency and readiness in handling the multifaceted roles of a pharmacist.