Bulgaria has quickly become one of the most attractive destinations for students who want to pursue affordable and high-quality education in Europe. Bulgaria has a long tradition of excellence in medical education and research, dating back to the 19th century. Bulgarian universities are internationally recognized and accredited by the European Union and the World Health Organization. It can be a life-changing and rewarding decision to study pharmacy in Bulgaria. Pharmacy is a vital and rewarding profession that contributes to the health and well-being of millions of people. Pharmacy is a dynamic and diverse field that offers many opportunities for career development and advancement. Bulgarian pharmacy degrees are valid and accepted in all EU and non-EU countries, as well as in the USA, Canada, Australia, and others. They can open doors to employment opportunities anywhere.
In this article, we will look at some of the best universities in Bulgaria, that offer pharmacy degrees in English, along with their entry requirements, tuition fees, and more.
Overview: Study Pharmacy in Bulgaria
| Number of universities | 4 (source: Study in Bulgaria official website) |
| Course level | Undergraduate |
| Duration | 5 years |
| General admission requirement | Higher secondary diploma (biology and chemistry) |
| Annual tuition fees for international students | 6,000 EUR |
Why Study Pharmacy in Bulgaria?
Affordable tuition fees: The average cost of studying pharmacy in Bulgaria is around 4,000 EUR per year, which is much lower than in other European countries or the USA. Some universities also offer scholarships and financial aid to international students.
Low living costs: Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries in Europe, with an average monthly living expense of 300-500 EUR, depending on the city and lifestyle. Students can enjoy a high quality of life with a low budget.
Modern facilities and equipment: Bulgarian universities have well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and clinics, where students can gain practical skills and experience. Students also have access to online databases, journals, and books.
Multicultural environment: Bulgaria is a friendly and hospitable country, with a rich and diverse culture and history. Students can learn Bulgarian language and culture, as well as interact with students from different countries and backgrounds. Bulgaria is also a member of the EU, which means students can travel freely and easily within the Schengen area.
Career prospects: Graduates of pharmacy in Bulgaria have a wide range of career options, such as working in community pharmacies, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, regulatory agencies, or academia. They can also pursue further studies, such as master’s or doctoral degrees, in Bulgaria or abroad.
Top Pharmacy Programs in Bulgaria
Medical University of Sofia
The Medical University of Sofia is the oldest and largest institution of higher medical education in Bulgaria. It was founded in 1917 as a medical faculty of Sofia University and became an independent university in 1950. It has four faculties: medicine, dental medicine, pharmacy, and public health, as well as a medical college and a network of university hospitals. The university offers a five-year full-time master’s degree program in pharmacy, which consists of nine semesters of study at the university and one semester of internship in a pharmacy. The program covers fundamental, pharmaceutical, and medical subjects, as well as Bulgarian language.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees |
| Master in Pharmacy | 5 years | 6,000 EUR |
Suggested Reading: Best Medical Universities in Bulgaria
Medical University of Varna
The Medical University of Varna is a state school for higher education in medicine and health care, established in 1961. It has four faculties: medicine, dental medicine, pharmacy, and public health, as well as a medical college and a scientific research institute. It trains specialists with the educational and qualification degrees of master, bachelor, and professional bachelor. It also conducts scientific research and provides medical services at its university hospitals. The university provides a five-year full-time master’s degree program in pharmacy. The program trains students in basic, specific, and clinical pharmaceutical disciplines, as well as the Bulgarian language. The graduates receive the qualification of “Master of Pharmacy” and can work in the EU countries.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees |
| Master in Pharmacy | 5 years | 6,000 EUR |
Suggested Reading: Job Opportunities After Medical Studies in Bulgaria
Medical University of Plovdiv
Medical University of Plovdiv is a public research university in Plovdiv, founded in 1945. It has four faculties: medicine, dental medicine, pharmacy, and public health, as well as a medical college and a research institute. It offers programs in modern Greek philology, medical biotechnology, medical physics, and health management, among others. It also has a simulation center, a center for competence, and a center for translational neuroscience. Medical University of Plovdiv has a newly established faculty of pharmacy, which offers a five-year full-time master’s degree program in pharmacy.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees |
| Master in Pharmacy | 5 years | 6,000 EUR |
Suggested Reading: Cost of Medical Studies in Bulgaria
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” is the first and most prestigious university in Bulgaria, established in 1888. It has 16 faculties and three departments, covering a wide range of disciplines in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technical sciences. It is a member of several international academic networks and organizations, such as the European University Association and the Coimbra Group. The university offers a five-year full-time master’s degree program in pharmacy.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees |
| Master in Pharmacy | 5 years | 6,000 EUR |
Suggested Reading: Admission and Eligibility for Medical Studies in Bulgaria
Admission Requirements to Study Pharmacy in Bulgaria
- A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.
- Specific subject requirements may vary, but a strong background in biology and chemistry is usually essential.
- Proof of English language proficiency through tests like IELTS (6.5) or TOEFL (90).
- Some universities may require you to take an entrance exam in subjects like biology and a completed application form (online or paper-based, depending on the university).
- Some universities may conduct interviews as part of the admission process. This is an opportunity for them to assess your motivation, communication skills, and suitability for the program.
- If you have completed your high school education outside Bulgaria, you may need to have your qualifications recognized by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science.
- Some universities may require a medical examination to ensure that you are in good health, especially if you are an international student.
Suggested Reading: Study Medicine in Bulgaria in English
Career Prospects for Pharmacy Graduates in Bulgaria
Pharmacy graduates in Bulgaria have various career options in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector, as well as in the health care system. They can work as pharmacists in community or hospital pharmacies, where they dispense drugs, counsel patients, and collaborate with other health professionals. They can also find work as pharmacy graduates with pharmaceutical companies or food and drink companies, in areas such as research and development, quality assurance, marketing, sales, and management. Other types of employers include the armed services, where they can work as military pharmacists for the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force.
The average monthly salary for a person working in Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology in Bulgaria is around 2269 EUR. Salaries range from 1129 EUR (lowest average) to 4,017 EUR (highest average, actual maximum salary is higher). For pharmacists in Bulgaria, salaries range from 2,250 BGN per month (starting salary) to 3,389 EUR per month (maximum salary).
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be a very smart choice for aspiring pharmacists to study pharmacy in Bulgaria, who want to pursue a high-quality education in a European country. Bulgaria has several renowned universities that offer excellent pharmacy programs, which combine theoretical and practical knowledge, as well as exposure to the latest developments in the field. Moreover, the tuition fees for pharmacy studies in Bulgaria are relatively low compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for students who want to save money and avoid debt. However, it’s important to consider factors such as the reputation of the university, rankings, placements, budget, location, and more before making an informed decision. Let our admission experts at OneApply, help you make the perfect choice. Book your free video call appointment now!
