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Professional Dress

Student pharmacists of the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy are representatives of the School and the conduct and personal appearance of a student pharmacist reflects how colleagues, patients, and the community view the student pharmacist, the program, and ultimately the pharmacy profession. Attire and behavior should promote a positive impression for the individual student pharmacist and should prioritize the interests of those being served above one’s own. Specific dress requirements may be set by various institutions and practice sites. These requirements typically will be included in written course materials; however, it is the responsibility of the student pharmacist to inquire about the dress code. Furthermore, a student pharmacist who is in a professional program and engaged in patient contact must keep in mind that members of the professional community are obligated to maintain an acceptable professional standard.

All student pharmacists must uphold the following guidelines:

  • Student pharmacists must wear a pressed, clean, short white lab coat with a UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy name tag.
  • Student pharmacists must wear appropriate business attire.
  • Nails should be clean and well-manicured, and of a length that will not interfere with the duties of a pharmacist.
  • Jeans, shorts, T-shirts, leather skirts/pants, leggings, clothing that is see-through, clothing that exposes the midriff, low-cut clothing, clothing with frayed hems, etc. are examples of inappropriate dress and are not allowed.
  • Hospital scrubs are not permissible unless specifically allowed by the preceptor in defined areas of the clinical site.
  • All student pharmacists must always prioritize personal hygiene.
  • Perfume or cologne should be worn at a minimum or not at all.
  • With the exception of ear piercing, there will be no visible body piercing, including but not limited to tongue piercing, nose piercing, and eyebrow rings/bars.
  • Hair should be clean, well groomed, and worn in such a manner that it presents a professional image. Facial hair must be trimmed and kept clean.
  • Hats are not allowed.
  • Tattoos should not be visible.
  • Gum chewing should be avoided at the clinical site.