In 2024, the number of pharmacist graduates in the US is forecasted to be 13.58 thousand. This number sees a gradual decline over the following years: 13.39 thousand in 2025, 13.22 thousand in 2026, 13.06 thousand in 2027, and 12.9 thousand in 2028. Compared to the previous two years, the trend represents a continuous year-on-year decline in the number of graduates, posting a slight decrease each year. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over this period reflects a modest drop in the average annual number of pharmacist graduates.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Potential changes in pharmacy education policies or incentives that could reverse or stabilize the declining trend.
- The impact of technological advancements and automation in pharmacies on the demand for new graduates.
- Shifts in healthcare needs and population demographics that might affect the supply and demand for pharmacists.