Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D.) < West Virginia University

Degree Offered

Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)

Nature of the Program

The Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program prepares students for contemporary pharmacy practice through a rigorous, science-driven curriculum and hands-on learning experiences. The curriculum integrates clinical therapeutics with foundational sciences such as drug chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics, while also emphasizing essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and healthcare systems management. Students benefit from an innovative learning environment, including the Pharmacy Skills Development Center, which features a compounding lab, group spaces, and advanced technology to support student learning. Through coursework, case studies, and hands-on experiences, graduates are well-equipped to excel in the evolving field of pharmacy.

Interprofessional Practice and Education (IPE) Opportunities

A wide array of healthcare learners at West Virginia University Health Sciences Center (HSC) enables pharmacy students to learn with, from and about other healthcare professionals and students to prepare them to improve patient outcomes through interprofessional collaboration. Students work together in interprofessional learning experiences along with various other students from across the HSC Schools of Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, and Public Health and the main campus, including Social Work. At WVU, IPE is a longitudinal thread that is progressive and reinforced throughout all four years of the curriculum. These experiences are supplemented by co-curricular activities such as community service projects outside of the classroom and other extracurricular activities. Experiences include:

First Year Experience: First year longitudinal experience (IPE 101) with students from a variety of health professions discussing and working through hands-on activities related to the core competencies of IPE including professional roles and responsibilities, teams and teamwork, communication, and values and ethics. Students also complete interprofessional education simulation activities.
Second Year Practice Experience: The second year IPE experiences are included in the Population Health and Policy course. Students will learn about an important public health topic from an interprofessional team of faculty and participate in a simulation and clinical practice experience with other health professional students.
Third Year Acute and Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Practice Experiences: Students participate in IPE simulations and clinical practice activities. Examples of these activities include IPE rounding and the Interdisciplinary Education Apartment Simulation (IDEAS).
Fourth Year Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences: Students work with a variety of students and healthcare professionals from other health professions providing direct and indirect patient care during five-week rotations in a variety of healthcare settings.

Program Information

Area of Emphasis in College Teaching in Pharmacy

This area of emphasis program helps to prepare student pharmacists for teaching at the college level. The program combines courses and expertise at the university level with those at the School of Pharmacy to provide a broad range of knowledge and experience in pedagogy training, diversity issues in higher education, current issues in academic pharmacy education, and mentored teaching experience. Together, the program components will develop students’ ability to design and teach their own courses while implementing effective classroom techniques and assessment. By completing the area of emphasis, students will be more competitive for residency and fellowship programs with an emphasis in teaching and will also be prepared to participate in college teaching as an adjunct pharmacy instructor or preceptor. More information can be found on the School's web page.

Area of Emphasis in Geriatric Pharmacy

This area of emphasis program offers students pursuing the Doctor of Pharmacy degree the opportunity to explore the basic biological, psychological, sociological and medical processes of aging, the needs and experiences of older people, and the impact of social policies related to human aging. An understanding of the unique experiences and needs of older adults in Appalachia and other rural areas is emphasized. More information can be found on the School's web page.

Area of Emphasis in Global Health (for Pharmacy)

The area of emphasis program in global health trains students to be able to provide patient-centered care at home and abroad. Its focus is on providing both didactic and experiential education that will allow students to have an understanding and an appreciation for the global nature of healthcare and how pharmacy practice can impact individuals worldwide. More information can be found on the School's web page.

Area of Emphasis in Health Outcomes and Informatics

The Health Outcomes and Informatics program is designed to introduce students to concepts and issues as they relate to a variety of practice settings, including managed care, pharmaceutical industry, hospital, clinical research organization, and specialty pharmacy. The overall goal is (i) to understand the importance of clinical, economic, and patient-reported outcomes related to pharmaceuticals and clinical services in healthcare, and (ii) to train students in health outcomes and informatics that improves their clinical decision making for patients, providers, payers, pharmaceutical industry, and government. More information can be found on the School's web page.

Area of Emphasis in Residency Preparation

The Residency Preparation Area of Emphasis (AoE) is designed to enhance Doctor of Pharmacy students' preparation and competitiveness for PGY-1 residency applications. The AoE offers didactic and experiential education, along with one-on-one mentorship, to help students understand the nuances of clinical pharmacy practice. This track provides a roadmap for success in critical areas such as scholarship experience, organizational involvement, and experiential education, while also equipping students with essential tools for navigating the application and interview process. The experiences in the AoE will give students a solid foundation for further training in a residency program. More information can be found on the School's web page.

Area of Emphasis in Translational Pharmacy Research

The Area of Emphasis (AoE) in Translational Pharmacy Research will allow students to understand and recognize the importance of and participate in translational research (e.g., how basic sciences contributions are applied in improving the quality of patients’ health, how observations in the clinic direct new scientific hypotheses, and how health services and outcomes research impacts access, cost, quality and outcomes of health care). Participants conduct original research under the mentorship of a faculty member. More information can be found on the School's web page.

Technical Standards for Admission, Advancement, and Graduation

West Virginia University is committed to fostering a learning environment that supports students from all backgrounds. The West Virginia University School of Pharmacy provides technical standards to inform incoming and enrolled students of the essential skills, knowledge, and abilities required for successful participation in this program and eventual entry into professional pharmacy practice. To successfully matriculate through the program, students must meet these technical standards, with or without reasonable accommodations, at the time of admission and throughout enrollment.

The School of Pharmacy encourages students with disabilities to seek reasonable accommodations and provides individualized support through the Office of Student Accommodations. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Guidance from the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD), an individualized interactive process is used with each student with disabilities to determine whether reasonable accommodations would allow that student to meet the technical standards of a course or program without fundamentally altering the nature of that program. Students are expected to initiate this process by obtaining accommodations through WVU’s Office of Student Accommodations.

For details, see the Technical Standards document published at https://pharmacy.wvu.edu/student-services/pharmd-program/.

Student Course Load

Students in the Doctor of Pharmacy program are either administratively registered or expected to register for all required classes in a semester unless directed not to do so by the Academic Standards Committee or the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. Full-time students in the School of Pharmacy may not register for less than nine credit hours during any semester without written approval of the Academic Standards Committee. For an exception, a letter of petition must be submitted to the Academic Standards Committee.

Promotion and Graduation Requirements

Evaluation of Student Progress

Promotion of a student in the Doctor of Pharmacy program is evaluated in two major areas: successful completion of all curricular and co-curricular requirements, and appropriate adherence to the professional standards of the School of Pharmacy.

The following information is only a brief outline of the School of Pharmacy policies and procedures. Detailed requirements and policies for evaluation of student progress and graduation can be found in the Policy on Academic and Professional Standards Governing the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Program and may be viewed on the School of Pharmacy website. Copies are available at the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. The Academic Standards Committee administers all promotion and academic penalty rules.

Academic Coursework Review

The Academic Standards Committee of the School of Pharmacy reviews the performance of each student in every course at the end of each academic period.

The Committee will impose sanctions for failure to meet academic standards requirements of the program. This includes, but is not limited to, the following circumstances:

Receipt of a grade of less than C or P in a required course, including professional electives
Failure to maintain enrollment in all required professional courses as part of the established curriculum
Failure to maintain a cumulative overall professional GPA ≥ 2.50
Failure to maintain a cumulative major GPA ≥ 2.50
Failure to achieve a term GPA > 2.0 in any semester of the first three professional years
Failure to meet the terms of academic sanction or remediation letters
A specific academic deficiency such as an important clinical skill that has not been mastered
Failure to complete all requirements for graduation within five years of initial enrollment into the School of Pharmacy, unless approved by the Dean
Failure to meet the technical standards

Sanction that can be imposed include remedial changes in a student’s curriculum, academic probation, academic suspension, and academic dismissal from the School of Pharmacy.

Students enrolled in a dual degree program placed on academic probation may be required to pause coursework for the second degree during the probationary period. Students placed on probation lose eligibility for School of Pharmacy awards and scholarships during the probation period. Students placed on academic probation lose eligiility to serve elected, appointed, or volunteer leadership roles or offices in student organizations within the School of Pharmacy during the probationary period.

After academic dismissal, a student may apply for readmission to the School of Pharmacy. Readmission of a student is the decision of the Admissions Committee following a recommendation by the Academic Standards Committee.

Evaluation

Academic and professional performance are evaluated by written and verbal assignments and through observation in lectures, examinations, laboratories, practicum sessions, and all clinical and academic settings of the University or its affiliates.

Evaluations by the faculty and faculty committees are not limited to academic assignments. These evaluations and grades, therefore, reflect the faculty's judgment about a student's clinical skills, ethical and professional behavior, and ability to meet technical standards.

Performance in coursework is described by the following grade options: A (excellent), B (acceptable), C (marginal), D (poor), F (failing), P (pass), and I (incomplete). Grades (A, B, C, D, F, P, or I) are entered onto the official grade transcript.

Professional Standards Review

Students must follow the standards of professionalism and conduct set forth in the Student Code of Academic and Professional Integrity for the Doctor of Pharmacy Program, Policy on Academic and Professional Standards Governing the Doctor of Pharmacy Program, as well as other applicable School, Health Sciences Center and University policies. Violations of these standards will be addressed as outlined in the Academic and Professional Standards Governing the Doctor of Pharmacy Program.

Special Requirements

Students must maintain a valid intern license from the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy for the entire duration of the Pharm.D. program. The Board of Pharmacy holds final authority over internship rules and regulations. The Board of Pharmacy requires 1,500 clock hours of internship experience for licensure in West Virginia. All 1,500 hours required by the WV Board of Pharmacy may be obtained via the WVU School of Pharmacy experiential program.

Students in the Pharm.D. program will perform one four-week experiential rotation in a community pharmacy setting at the conclusion of the first year and a two-week experiential rotation in a health-system pharmacy setting at the conclusion of the second year of the professional curriculum. Students complete eight, five-week advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs) during the final year of the program. All students are required to complete at least one rural rotation experience in West Virginia (outside of Morgantown and Charleston). Site placement and sequencing will occur in the semesters prior to the experiential activities. Students may incur additional housing and/or travel costs when taking part in the experiential rotations. Opportunity will be provided for students to prioritize their site selection; however, ultimate authority for site selection will be maintained by the School of Pharmacy. All didactic coursework (required and elective) must be successfully completed prior to beginning the fourth-year APPE rotations.

Legal Requirements

Information regarding qualifications to complete examination for licensure can be found at the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy website.

Interns must be registered with the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy and must be enrolled in or a graduate of an accredited school of pharmacy to gain experience acceptable for the internship requirement. Details may be obtained from the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs.

Course Exemptions

A student who seeks exemption from one or more professional courses based upon previous academic experience must submit a written petition to the Academic Standards Committee. Only courses taken through an accredited school of pharmacy or medicine will be considered for possible substitution. https://pharmacy.wvu.edu/student-services/pharmd-program/https://pharmacy.wvu.edu/student-services/pharmd-program/

Admissions for 2027-2028

Undergraduate Admissions

First-time freshmen and undergraduate transfer students may apply through the main WVU application. Applicants should note "pharmacy" as their major of choice. Upon application evaluation, the applicant is automatically admitted to the Direct Admit Pathway (DAP) program if they meet the criteria. If the applicant does not meet the requirements for the DAP program, they are admitted to the Healthcare Pathways with Pharmacy Interest major. Students may continue to update test scores, GPA and other means of meeting the math requirement for the DAP program through August 1 of the admissions year.

PharmD Admissions

Admissions are competitive. Criteria used to evaluate candidates include academic performance, as measured by the grade point averages (GPA) for all the above-noted prerequisite courses and the cumulative GPA achieved in all prior college-level coursework, a personal statement, evaluations (letters of reference), and a personal interview. Prerequisite courses may be taken at an accredited U.S. or foreign institution of higher education and completed with a grade of C or better. Personal qualifications that relate to the suitability of applicants for the study and practice of pharmacy are given careful consideration.

All applicants must first file an initial electronic application with the Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS). Instructions for completing the application are found on the PharmCAS website: http://pharmcas.cas.myliaison.com. Application deadlines are subject to change; check PharmCAS, the School of Pharmacy website at http://pharmacy.wvu.edu, or contact the School to verify current deadlines. It is recommended that students apply early as the PharmD Program operates on a rolling admissions basis.

Each applicant recommended for acceptance is required to pay a deposit of $100 before their name is added to the official list of those accepted by the School of Pharmacy. If the applicant enrolls, this sum is applied to the first semester tuition. If the applicant fails to enroll, this deposit is forfeited.

WVU participates in PharmCAS's mediated criminal background check process conducted by Certiphi Screening Inc. You must follow the instructions provided by PharmCAS. The search agency will share results with you before releasing them to WVU. Results indicating that you would not qualify for a West Virginia Board of Pharmacy intern license will terminate your admission and all previous offers. You must keep an electronic copy of the background check for your records. Students are responsible for the fee associated with this screening.

With enrollment in the School of Pharmacy, all students must comply with the immunization and diagnostic procedures required by the WVU Board of Governors, WVU, the WVU Health Sciences Center, and the School of Pharmacy.

Complete information may be obtained from http://pharmacy.wvu.edu/students/

Personal Interview

The Admissions Committee requires a personal interview with selected candidates. Interviews are held during the fall and spring semesters at the WVU Health Sciences Center in Morgantown.

Evaluations (Letters of Reference)

A total of three evaluations (letters of reference) are required. One academic letter of reference is required and must be provided by a course instructor in any of the pre-pharmacy course requirements. The second and third letters may be provided by a variety of individuals including a second faculty member or advisor, employer, etc. Please refer to the PharmCAS or the School's PharmD Admissions page (https://pharmacy.wvu.edu/student-services/pharmd-admissions/) for a list of appropriate letter sources.

Admission to Advanced Standing for Transfer Students

If space is available, students from other accredited schools of pharmacy may be admitted provided they meet the prerequisite course requirements of the WVU School of Pharmacy, have at least a 2.5 professional grade point average, are in good academic and professional standing at the school of origin, and are eligible for continuation toward a degree in pharmacy at the school initially attended. Grades of D in professional courses cannot be transferred.

Provisional Admission

An applicant accepted into the first year or an advanced standing transfer student is expected to have met all entrance requirements and satisfactorily completed all pre-pharmacy in progress coursework prior to matriculation. A satisfactory performance in the completion of such coursework is defined as one that is consistent with the student’s previous academic record and must include no grades of D or lower in prerequisite courses. While it is preferred that all prerequisite coursework be completed by the end of the spring term prior to matriculation, it is possible to complete up to two non-sequential prerequisite courses in the summer before the start of pharmacy student orientation. Failure to do so will result in revocation of the acceptance by the Admissions Committee.

Admitted students must remain free of any violations of local, state, or federal law that would prohibit their ability to obtain an intern license from the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy.

Furnishing or causing to furnish false or incorrect information for the purpose of gaining admission to the School of Pharmacy constitutes grounds for disciplinary action including, but not limited to, expulsion or revocation of acceptance.

Students in the School of Pharmacy agree to abide by the provisions of the Student Code of Academic and Professional Integrity. Upon admission, each student is required to return a signed statement to the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs indicating the student has read and understands the Policy on Academic and Professional Standards and the Student Code of Academic and Professional Integrity of the West Virginia University School of Pharmacy. The code and copies of the statement are available in the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs in the School of Pharmacy and on the School of Pharmacy website.

Academic and Technical Standards and Policies

http://pharmacy.wvu.edu/student-services/pharmd-program/

Direct Admit Major Code: 8948

Healthcare Pathway Major Code: 1160 (Pharmacy Interest Code G011)

Personal qualifications that relate to the suitability of applicants for the study and practice of pharmacy are given careful consideration.

General Education Foundations

Please use this link to view a list of courses that meet each GEF requirement.

NOTE: Some major requirements will fulfill specific GEF requirements. Please see the curriculum requirements listed below for details on which GEFs you will need to select.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
General Education Foundations
F1 - Composition & Rhetoric		3-6
ENGL 101 & ENGL 102	Introduction to Composition and Rhetoric and Composition, Rhetoric, and Research
or ENGL 103	Accelerated Academic Writing
F2A/F2B - Science & Technology		4-6
F3 - Math & Quantitative Reasoning		3-4
F4 - Society & Connections		3
F5 - Human Inquiry & the Past		3
F6 - The Arts & Creativity		3
F7 - Global Studies & Diversity		3
F8 - Focus (may be satisfied by completion of a minor, double major, or dual degree)		9
Total Hours		31-37

Please note that not all of the GEF courses are offered at all campuses. Students should consult with their advisor or academic department regarding the GEF course offerings available at their campus.

Degree Requirements

The awarding of a doctor of pharmacy degree to a student is approved by the dean of the School of Pharmacy after receipt of recommendations from the Academic and Professional Standards Committee. Candidates must meet the following criteria:

Meet the academic and professional standards, criteria, and requirements outlined in The Policy on Academic and Professional Standards Governing the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree at West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, which is available at the School of Pharmacy Office of Admissions and Student Affairs and on the school’s website.
Earn coursework grades of C- or higher (or P for P/F courses) for all required courses, including professional electives. While plus/minus grades will not affect the GPA calculations at WVU, the GPA calculated by PharmCAS will include adjustments for plus or minus grades.
Satisfactorily complete all of the required coursework in a timely fashion, which may not exceed five years from the date of initial enrollment into the professional program.
Pay all fees.
Complete coursework as a cohort; students cannot progress to the next year's coursework without satisfactorily completing all previous year's academic requirements.
Complete 100 hours of volunteer community service.

Curriculum Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
A minimum grade of C- is required.
Biochemistry Requirement
Select one of the following:		3
AGBI 410	Introductory Biochemistry
BMM 339	Introduction to Human Biochemistry
Biology Requirement
Select one of the following BIOL 115 preferred - (May fulfill GEF 2): ^*		4
BIOL 115 & 115L	Principles of Biology and Principles of Biology Laboratory
BIOL 101 & BIOL 102 & 101L & BIOL 102L	General Biology 1 and General Biology 2 and General Biology 1 Laboratory and General Biology 2 Laboratory
BIOL 117 & 117L	Introductory Physiology and Introductory Physiology Laboratory (May fulfill GEF 8)	4
Chemistry Requirement
CHEM 115 & 115L	Fundamentals of Chemistry 1 and Fundamentals of Chemistry 1 Laboratory (May fulfill GEF 8)	4
CHEM 116 & 116L	Fundamentals of Chemistry 2 and Fundamentals of Chemistry 2 Laboratory (May fulfill GEF 8)	4
CHEM 233 & 233L	Organic Chemistry 1 and Organic Chemistry 1 Laboratory	4
CHEM 234 & 234L	Organic Chemistry 2 and Organic Chemistry 2 Laboratory	4
Economics Requirement
ECON 201	Principles of Microeconomics (May fulfill GEF 4)	3
English Requirement		3-6
ENGL 101 & ENGL 102	Introduction to Composition and Rhetoric and Composition, Rhetoric, and Research (May fulfill GEF 1)
or ENGL 103	Accelerated Academic Writing
Math Requirement
Select one of the following (May fulfill GEF 3):		3
MATH 150	Applied Calculus
MATH 155	Calculus 1
Microbiology Requirement
Select one of the following:		3
AEM 341 & 341L	General Microbiology and General Microbiology Laboratory
AEM 401 & 401L	Environmental Microbiology and Environmental Microbiology Laboratory
MICB 200	Medical Microbiology
Physiology Requirement
BIOL 235	Human Physiology	3
or PSIO 241	Elementary Physiology
Public Speaking Requirement
COMM 270 & 270S	Presentational Speaking and Effective Public Speaking Studio	3
or COMM 104	Fundamentals of Public Communication
Statistics Requirement
STAT 211	Elementary Statistical Inference	3
or ECON 225	Elementary Business and Economics Statistics
General University and Pharmacy Orientation Requirements
PHAR 191	First-Year Seminar	1
PHAR 199	Orientation to Pharmacy 1-2 Hr	2
General Education Foundations
GEF Requirements 5, 6, 7		9
Total Hours		63

*: BIOL 101, 102, 103, and 104 are equivalent to BIOL 115.

Pharmacy Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
PALM 301	Principles of Human Anatomy	3
PSIO 541	Integrative Physiology	4
PHAR 703	Pharmacy Practice Experience 1	1
PHAR 710	Pharmacy Practice Experience 2	1
PHAR 800	Introduction to Pharmacy	4
PHAR 801	Drug Delivery	5
PHAR 802	Preparation of Pharmaceutical Products	1
PHAR 807	Pharmacy Calculations	1
PHAR 810	Community Pharmacy Practice	2
PHAR 811	Foundational Pharmacy Skills	1
PHAR 812	Drug Chemistry	2
PHAR 813	Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacogenomics	4
PHAR 814	Biochemical Pharmacology	4
PHAR 815	Self-Care	3
PHAR 817	Principles of Immunology and Microbiology	2
PHAR 818	Intro Community Rotation	4
PHAR 820	Population Health and Policy	3
PHAR 821	Pain	1
PHAR 823	Pulmonology	2
PHAR 824	Cardiology	5
PHAR 826	Evidence-Based Practice	3
PHAR 825	Nephrology	2
PHAR 830	Health Systems Pharmacy Practice	2
PHAR 833	Endocrinology	3
PHAR 835	Autoimmune Diseases	2
PHAR 836	Research in Pharmacy	1
PHAR 837	Quality and Outcomes in Pharmacy Practice	2
PHAR 838	Intro Institutional Rotation	2
PHAR 840	Pharmacy Practice Management	3
PHAR 843	Gastroenterology and Nutrition	2
PHAR 844	Infectious Diseases	3
PHAR 845	Neurology and Psychiatry	4
PHAR 848	Acute Care Practice Experience	2
PHAR 849	Ambulatory Care Practice Experience	2
PHAR 853	Hematology/Oncology	3
PHAR 854	Special Populations	3
PHAR 858	Comprehensive Assessment of Practice	3
PHAR 857	Pharmacy Ethics	1
PHAR 859	Pharmacy Law	2
Rotations		40
PHAR 760	APPE 1
PHAR 761	APPE 2
PHAR 762	APPE 3
PHAR 763	APPE 4
PHAR 764	APPE 5
PHAR 765	APPE 6
PHAR 766	APPE 7
PHAR 772	APPE 8
Current Topics Requirement		2
PHAR 860	Current Topics in Pharmacy
Electives (only approved professionally related courses) or AOE		8
Selected from the following (ACCT, ASP, BADM, BIOL, BUSA, C&I, CHEM, COUN, CSAD, COMM, CHPR, DISB, ENGL, ENTR, EDP, EPID, FIN, GEN, GERO, GRAD, HIED, HPML, IDT, HN&F, LDR, NSG, OEHS, PHAR, PHIL, POLS, PUBA, PUBH, RELG, SBHS, SHED, SOC, STAT, WGST)
Total Hours		148

Suggested Plan of Study

First Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours	Summer	Hours
PALM 301	3	PHAR 810	2	PHAR 818	4
PSIO 541	4	PHAR 811	1
PHAR 800	4	PHAR 812	2
PHAR 801	5	PHAR 813	4
PHAR 802	1	PHAR 814	4
PHAR 807	1	PHAR 815	3
PHAR 703	1	PHAR 817	2
		PHAR 710	1
	19		19		4
Second Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours	Summer	Hours
PHAR 820	3	PHAR 821	1	PHAR 838	2
PHAR 823	2	PHAR 825	2
PHAR 824	5	PHAR 830	2
PHAR 826	3	PHAR 833	3
Elective or AOE	2	PHAR 835	2
		PHAR 836	1
		PHAR 837	2
		Elective or AOE	2
	15		15		2
Third Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours	Summer	Hours
PHAR 840	3	PHAR 853	3	Complete 2 rotations from the following:	10
PHAR 843	2	PHAR 854	3	PHAR 760
PHAR 844	3	PHAR 858	3	PHAR 761
PHAR 845	4	PHAR 859	2	PHAR 762
Select 1 of the following:	2	PHAR 857	1	PHAR 763
PHAR 848		Select course not yet completed:	2	PHAR 764
PHAR 849		PHAR 848		PHAR 765
Elective or AOE	2	PHAR 849		PHAR 766
		Elective or AOE	2	PHAR 772
	16		16		10
Fourth Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours
PHAR 860	1	PHAR 860	1
Complete 3 rotations from the following of those not yet completed:^*	15	Complete 3 rotations from the following of those not yet completed:	15
PHAR 760		PHAR 760
PHAR 761		PHAR 761
PHAR 762		PHAR 762
PHAR 763		PHAR 763
PHAR 764		PHAR 764
PHAR 765		PHAR 765
PHAR 766		PHAR 766
PHAR 772		PHAR 772
	16		16
Total credit hours: 148

*: Prior to beginning the experiential rotations, each student enrolled in the School of Pharmacy professional program must complete a minimum of eight credit hours of school of pharmacy elective courses or courses from a list of approved professionally-related electives as part of the pharmacy curriculum. Electives must be completed during the first three years of the four-year professional program. No course taken prior to admission into the School of Pharmacy may be used nor repeated to meet the elective requirements of the professional curriculum, and no reduction in elective requirements will be allowed for courses completed or degrees earned prior to enrollment in the program.

This program has specific admission criteria for students who are not continuing the pursuit of the PharmD degree, and have not already completed a bachelor's degree.

Curriculum Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
University Requirements		46
Pre-Pharmacy Requirements		43
Pharmacy Requirements		31
Total Hours		120

University Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
General Education Foundations (GEF) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 (31-37 Credits)
Outstanding GEF Requirements 1, 5, 6, and 7		15
PHAR 191	First-Year Seminar	1
General Electives		30
Total Hours		46

Pre-Pharmacy Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Biology Requirement		8
BIOL 115 & 115L	Principles of Biology and Principles of Biology Laboratory
BIOL 117 & 117L	Introductory Physiology and Introductory Physiology Laboratory
OR
BIOL 101 & 101L & BIOL 102 & BIOL 102L	General Biology 1 and General Biology 1 Laboratory and General Biology 2 and General Biology 2 Laboratory
General Chemistry Requirement		8
CHEM 115 & 115L	Fundamentals of Chemistry 1 and Fundamentals of Chemistry 1 Laboratory
CHEM 116 & 116L	Fundamentals of Chemistry 2 and Fundamentals of Chemistry 2 Laboratory
Organic Chemistry Requirement		8
CHEM 233 & 233L	Organic Chemistry 1 and Organic Chemistry 1 Laboratory
CHEM 234 & 234L	Organic Chemistry 2 and Organic Chemistry 2 Laboratory
Calculus Requirement		3
Select one of the following:
MATH 150	Applied Calculus
MATH 153 & MATH 154	Calculus 1a with Precalculus and Calculus 1b with Precalculus
MATH 155	Calculus 1
Economics Requirement
ECON 201	Principles of Microeconomics	3
Microbiology Requirement		3
Select one of the following:
AEM 341 & 341L	General Microbiology and General Microbiology Laboratory
AEM 401 & 401L	Environmental Microbiology and Environmental Microbiology Laboratory
MICB 200	Medical Microbiology
Physiology Requirement		4
Select one of the following:
PSIO 241	Elementary Physiology
BIOL 235	Human Physiology
Public Speaking Requirement
COMM 270 & 270S	Presentational Speaking and Effective Public Speaking Studio	3
Statistics Requirement		3
Select one of the following:
ECON 225	Elementary Business and Economics Statistics
STAT 211	Elementary Statistical Inference
Total Hours		43

Pharmacy Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Biochemistry Requirement		3
Select one of the following:
AGBI 410	Introductory Biochemistry
BMM 339	Introduction to Human Biochemistry
Pharmacy Requirements		26
PALM 301	Principles of Human Anatomy
PSIO 541	Integrative Physiology
PHAR 703	Pharmacy Practice Experience 1
PHAR 710	Pharmacy Practice Experience 2
PHAR 800	Introduction to Pharmacy
PHAR 801	Drug Delivery
PHAR 802	Preparation of Pharmaceutical Products
PHAR 807	Pharmacy Calculations
PHAR 810	Community Pharmacy Practice
PHAR 811	Foundational Pharmacy Skills
PHAR 812	Drug Chemistry
PHAR 813	Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacogenomics
PHAR 814	Biochemical Pharmacology
PHAR 815	Self-Care
PHAR 817	Principles of Immunology and Microbiology
PHAR 820	Population Health and Policy
PHAR 821	Pain
PHAR 823	Pulmonology
PHAR 824	Cardiology
PHAR 825	Nephrology
PHAR 826	Evidence-Based Practice
PHAR 830	Health Systems Pharmacy Practice
PHAR 833	Endocrinology
PHAR 835	Autoimmune Diseases
PHAR 836	Research in Pharmacy
PHAR 837	Quality and Outcomes in Pharmacy Practice
Capstone		2-4
Select one of the following:
PHAR 749	Pharmaceutical Investigation (2 Credits)
PHAR 818	Intro Community Rotation (4 Credits)
PHAR 497	Research (2 Credits)
Total Hours		31

Dual Degree

Doctor of Pharmacy/Master of Health Administration

PharmD Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
PALM 301	Principles of Human Anatomy	3
PSIO 541	Integrative Physiology	4
PHAR 703	Pharmacy Practice Experience 1	1
PHAR 710	Pharmacy Practice Experience 2	1
PHAR 800	Introduction to Pharmacy	4
PHAR 801	Drug Delivery	5
PHAR 802	Preparation of Pharmaceutical Products	1
PHAR 807	Pharmacy Calculations	1
PHAR 810	Community Pharmacy Practice	2
PHAR 811	Foundational Pharmacy Skills	1
PHAR 812	Drug Chemistry	2
PHAR 813	Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacogenomics	4
PHAR 814	Biochemical Pharmacology	4
PHAR 815	Self-Care	3
PHAR 817	Principles of Immunology and Microbiology	2
PHAR 818	Intro Community Rotation	4
PHAR 820	Population Health and Policy	3
PHAR 821	Pain	1
PHAR 823	Pulmonology	2
PHAR 824	Cardiology	5
PHAR 826	Evidence-Based Practice	3
PHAR 825	Nephrology	2
PHAR 830	Health Systems Pharmacy Practice	2
PHAR 833	Endocrinology	3
PHAR 835	Autoimmune Diseases	2
PHAR 836	Research in Pharmacy	1
PHAR 837	Quality and Outcomes in Pharmacy Practice	2
PHAR 838	Intro Institutional Rotation	2
PHAR 840	Pharmacy Practice Management	3
PHAR 843	Gastroenterology and Nutrition	2
PHAR 844	Infectious Diseases	3
PHAR 845	Neurology and Psychiatry	4
PHAR 848	Acute Care Practice Experience	2
PHAR 849	Ambulatory Care Practice Experience	2
PHAR 853	Hematology/Oncology	3
PHAR 854	Special Populations	3
PHAR 857	Pharmacy Ethics	1
PHAR 858	Comprehensive Assessment of Practice	3
PHAR 859	Pharmacy Law	2
Rotations		40
PHAR 760	APPE 1
PHAR 761	APPE 2
PHAR 762	APPE 3
PHAR 763	APPE 4
PHAR 764	APPE 5
PHAR 765	APPE 6
PHAR 766	APPE 7
PHAR 772	APPE 8
Current Topics Requirement		2
PHAR 860	Current Topics in Pharmacy
Total Hours		140

MHA Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.
HPML 510	Health Economics	3
HPML 522	Introduction to Data Analytics for Health Administrators	3
HPML 523	Healthcare Finance	3
HPML 555	Health Services Project Management	3
HPML 556	Managerial Epidemiology & Strategy	3
HPML 575	Health Insurance & Revenue Cycle	3
HPML 659	Comprehensive Experience in Healthcare Management	3
Graduate Seminar		2
HPML 696	Graduate Seminar
Total Hours		23

Suggested Plan of Studies

First Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours	Summer	Hours
PALM 301	3	PHAR 810	2	Intro Community Rotation	4
PSIO 541	4	PHAR 811	1	PHAR 818
PHAR 800	4	PHAR 812	2
PHAR 801	5	PHAR 813	4
PHAR 802	1	PHAR 814	4
PHAR 807	1	PHAR 815	3
PHAR 703	1	PHAR 817	2
		PHAR 710	1
	19		19		4
Second Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours	Summer	Hours
PHAR 820	3	PHAR 821	1	Intro Institutional Rotation	2
PHAR 823	2	PHAR 825	2	PHAR 838
PHAR 824	5	PHAR 830	2
PHAR 826	3	PHAR 833	3
HPML 522	3	PHAR 835	2
HPML 575	3	PHAR 836	1
		PHAR 837	2
		HPML 555	3
	19		16		2
Third Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours	Summer	Hours
PHAR 840	3	PHAR 859	2	Complete 2 rotations from the following:	10
PHAR 843	2	PHAR 857	1	PHAR 760
PHAR 844	3	Hematology/Oncology	3	PHAR 761
PHAR 845	4	PHAR 854	3	PHAR 762
Select 1 of the following:	2	PHAR 858	3	PHAR 763
PHAR 848		Select course not yet completed:	2	PHAR 764
PHAR 849		PHAR 848		PHAR 765
HPML 510	3	PHAR 849		PHAR 766
		HPML 523	3	PHAR 772
		HPML 696	1
	17		18		10
Fourth Year
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours
PHAR 860	1	PHAR 860	1
Complete 3 rotations from the following of those not yet completed:^*	15	Complete 3 rotations from the following of those not yet completed:	15
PHAR 760		PHAR 760
PHAR 761		PHAR 761
PHAR 762		PHAR 762
PHAR 763		PHAR 763
PHAR 764		PHAR 764
PHAR 765		PHAR 765
PHAR 766		PHAR 766
PHAR 772		PHAR 772
HPML 556	3	HPML 659	3
HPML 696	1
	20		19
Total credit hours: 163

College Teaching in Pharmacy Area of Emphasis

Overview

This Area of Emphasis program helps to prepare student pharmacists for teaching at the college level. The program combines courses and expertise at the university level with those at the School of Pharmacy to provide a broad range of knowledge and experience in pedagogy training, diversity issues in higher education, current issues in academic pharmacy education, and mentored teaching experience. Together, the program components will develop students’ ability to design and teach their own courses while implementing effective classroom techniques and assessment. By completing the Area of Emphasis, students will be more competitive for residency and fellowship programs with a teaching component and will be prepared to participate in college teaching as an adjunct pharmacy instructor or preceptor.

The Area of Emphasis has three major requirements: a pharmacy-specific pedagogy course; elective course options from across the university; and a pharmacy teaching experience.

Objectives

Upon completion of the requirements of the Area of Emphasis, students will be able to:

Identify and discuss theories of learning and diversity
Synthesize and apply active learning strategies, instructional technology, and classroom assessment techniques
Display an understanding of large group teaching, small group facilitation, and assessment of student performance through participation in each of these
Create a professional teaching portfolio

Once completed, the Area of Emphasis will appear on the WVU transcript.

Eligibility and Application Process

Students must be currently enrolled in the Doctor of Pharmacy program and in good academic standing. Up to three students will be enrolled per year. Enrollment at other times may be considered if spots are available.

Applications will include:

an essay describing the applicant’s future career goals and what they expect to gain through completion of the Area of Emphasis
a current Curriculum Vitae
professional grade point average (will be access through the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Required Course
PHAR 743	Teach to Learn: Learn to Teach	2
Elective Course Options ^*		6
PHAR 749	Pharmaceutical Investigation (Research project must be teaching related and approved prior to registration; can register for 1 - 2 credit hours only.)
EDP 600	Educational Psychology
EDP 640	Instructional Design
EDUC 701	Teaching in Higher Education
EDUC 702	Curriculum Development and Reform in Educational Contexts
EDUC 703	Diversity in Education
GRAD 593	Special Topics (Accessible Teaching)
GRAD 593	Special Topics (Readability in the Online Course)
GRAD 593	Special Topics (Designing Scenarios to Engage Students)
GRAD 680	Classroom Assessment Techniques
GRAD 693	Special Topics (Teaching Different Cultures)
GRAD 710	Scholarly Teaching
GRAD 793	Special Topics (Scholarship of Teaching and Learning)
HIED 651	College Student Development
HIED 693	Special Topics (Women & Gender Issues in Higher Education)
IDT 693	Special Topics (Online Teaching and Learning)
WGST 593	Special Topics (Gender and Sexuality Theory)
Teaching Experience Requirement:
Students complete a Pharmacy Teaching Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE, 5 hours) or an APPE with a college teaching component (5 hours) or a Teaching Practicum (1 credit hour, in either Fall or Spring semester of the P4 year).
Total Hours		8

If a student is enrolled in more than one Area of Emphasis program, a single course cannot fulfill the requirements of both Area of Emphasis programs. Distinct courses must be taken to meet each program requirement.

Geriatric Pharmacy Area of Emphasis

Overview

The world’s population continues to grow older at an unprecedented rate. As of 2026, roughly 850 million people were aged 65 and older; it is estimated that this number will increase to 1.6 billion by 2050. Pharmacists in any practice setting provide care to older adults.

This Area of Emphasis program offers students pursuing the Doctor of Pharmacy degree the opportunity to explore the basic biological, psychological, sociological and medical processes of aging, the needs and experiences of older people, and the impact of social policies related to human aging. An understanding of the unique experiences and needs of older adults in Appalachia and other rural areas is emphasized. Students will be able to complete the requirements for the Area of Emphasis in Geriatrics while earning their Doctor of Pharmacy degree without having to take additional credit hours.

Objectives

Upon completion of the requirements of the Area of Emphasis, students will be able to:

Explore the basic biological, psychological, sociological and medical processes of aging.
Identify the needs and experiences of older persons and the health and social issues that often occur as part of the aging process.
Collect subjective and objective information necessary to assess the clinical status of the elderly.
Develop and implement individualized patient care plans in collaboration with other healthcare professionals and patients or caregivers that are evidence-based and cost-effective.

Once completed, the area of emphasis will appear on students’ WVU transcripts.

The area of emphasis has three required courses plus an advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE) in geriatrics or long-term care.

Eligibility and Application Procedure

Students must be currently enrolled in the Doctor of Pharmacy program and in good academic standing. Students will complete an application for admission to the area of emphasis program, which includes the following elements:

a letter/email regarding your intent to enter the program
a brief description/essay describing the applicant’s future career goals and what you expect to gain through completion of the Area of Emphasis
current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
professional grade point average (will be access through the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs)

Application Deadline

Students normally apply by March 1 of their P1 year for admission in the fall semester of their P2 year. However, students are welcome to apply at any time. Students who apply by either March 1 or October 1 and are accepted will be enrolled as of the following semester. Eligible program coursework completed prior to acceptance will be applied to the program requirements.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
PHAR 751	Geriatrics	2
Rural Gerontology		3
GERO 681	Rural Gerontology
GERO 410	Rural Gerontology
Public Policy of Aging		3
GERO 412	Public Policy of Aging
GERO 512	Public Policy of Aging
Other Requirements:
Geriatrics or Long-Term Care Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE, 5 hours)
Total Hours		8

Global Health (for Pharmacy) Area of Emphasis Requirements

Overview

The Area of Emphasis in Global Health (for Pharmacy) trains students to be able to provide patient-centered care at home and abroad. Its focus is on providing both didactic and experiential education that will allow students to have an understanding and an appreciation for the global nature of healthcare and how pharmacy practice can impact individuals and populations worldwide.

Objectives

Upon completion of the requirements of the Area of Emphasis, students will be able to:

Display an understanding of cultural competency, language barriers, and health literacy barriers that affect the health care of global populations.
Discuss how social, cultural, and economic factors contribute to health and disease and how those factors differ between cultures.
Identify the leading roles of key organizations in promoting global health care.
Assist in the direct care or education of resource-limited or medically underserved patients.
Discuss fundamental issues of travel medicine.

Once completed, the Area of Emphasis will appear on the WVU transcript.

Eligibility and Application Process

All Pharm.D students in good academic standing are eligible to apply for acceptance during the fall of their P2 year. Information will be emailed to students regarding the specific date that applications are due.

Applications will include:

an essay describing the applicant’s future career goals and what they expect to gain through completion of the Area of Emphasis
a current Curriculum Vitae
professional grade point average (will be accessed through the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs)

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
PHAR 778	Travel Medicine and Global Pharmacy Practice	2
Select two of the following: ^*		6
ANTH 350	Latin American Culture
ASP 220	Introduction to Africana Studies
COMM 309	Health Communication
COMM 316	Intercultural Communication
PUBH 605	Introduction to Global Public Health
POLS 250	Introduction to Comparative Politics
POLS 260	Introduction to International Relations
POLS 363	International Law
PUBH 201	Global Perspectives of Public Health
RELG 231	Religions of China and Japan
Other Requirements:
1. Complete an international advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE)
2. Complete an APPE in an underserved community or an approved summer internship or medical mission with a global health emphasis
3. Serve as a global health ambassador
Total Hours		8

*: Additionally, students may submit potential elective courses (at the 200 level or above) if they feel the course fits within the global health realm for consideration to the coordinator of the Area of Emphasis. Upon review and approval of these courses, students will be able to use these elective courses towards fulfillment of the Area of Emphasis requirements and those courses will be permanently added to the list of elective course options.

Experiential Rotation Requirement

Students will complete one international APPE. Currently available international rotations include South Africa, Oman, and Brazil. Students in the AoE program will not be guaranteed an international rotation and must go through the standard application process for selection for these international rotations. If students are unable to successfully complete an international APPE, they will not meet the requirements for completion of the AOE.

Additional Requirements

1) All students will have to complete either: a) an APPE that takes place in an underserved community, such as a rotation in Alaska, one with the Indian Health Service, or one at a Federally Qualified Health Center (e.g., Cabin Creek, Camden-on-Gauley), or b) an approved summer internship or medical mission that contains a global health emphasis. The summer internship or medical mission must be focused on global health and be of a minimum duration of 2 weeks; this requirement could be completed all at once or via multiple internships/medical missions but a total duration of 2 weeks is required. The school will maintain a list of approved internships when possible. However, the student may inquire about the acceptability of other programs which are not listed.

2) All students will serve as Global Health Ambassadors for international students visiting the West Virginia University School of Pharmacy when they are in Morgantown. The Ambassador’s role will require students to: a) organize and host social events outside of the School of Pharmacy attempting to incorporate the visiting students’ wishes into the planned activities, and b) organizing and participating as School of Pharmacy representatives during the HSC’s Global Health Week.

Health Outcomes and Informatics Area of Emphasis

Overview

The health outcomes field complements the traditional clinical field and guides different healthcare stakeholders regarding patient access and relative value of specific pharmaceutical drugs and clinical services. The field was once considered a mere support function but is gaining more traction globally as the healthcare system moves to a more value-based care structure. The health outcomes field encompasses varied aspects such as real-world data, machine learning and mathematical modeling, epidemiological designs, patient quality of life reports, opportunity cost of various treatments and services, budget impact, and cost-effectiveness models.

As the need for health outcomes field has grown, so has the number of educational opportunities for students in pharmacy schools and other healthcare professions. The Health Outcomes and Informatics program is designed to introduce students to concepts and issues as they relate to a variety of practice settings, including managed care, pharmaceutical industry, hospital, clinical research organization, and specialty pharmacy.

Students will be able to complete the requirements for the area of emphasis in Health Outcomes and Informatics while earning their Doctor of Pharmacy degree without having to take additional credit hours. Once completed, the area of emphasis will appear on students’ WVU transcripts.

Objectives

Upon completion of the requirements of the Area of Emphasis, students will be able to:

Understand the importance of clinical, economic, and patient-reported outcomes related to pharmaceuticals and clinical services in healthcare.
Train students in health outcomes and informatics that improves their clinical decision making for patients, providers, payers, pharmaceutical industry, and government.
Recognize the importance of health outcomes in medical decision making.
Identify key data, trends, and issues in managed care.
Understand cost, quality, and access issues in pharmaceutical care.
Discuss the role of artificial intelligence, big data technology, and data science in augmenting patient care processes.
Design, conduct, and analyze research topics in health outcomes and informatics including study design, methodology, and statistics used in solving pharmaceutical problems.

Eligibility and Application Process

Students must be currently enrolled in the Doctor of Pharmacy program and in good academic standing. Students normally apply by March 1 of their first or second professional year for admission in the fall semester of their second or third year, respectively. However, students may apply at any time. Eligible program coursework completed prior to acceptance will be applied to the program requirements.

Applications will include:

a letter/email regarding your intent to enter the program
a brief description describing the applicant’s future career goals and what you expect to gain through completion of the Area of Emphasis
a current Curriculum Vitae
professional grade point average (will be accessed through the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs)

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Required Courses
PHAR 720	AI and Health Data Science Research	2
PHAR 774	Managed Care Principles and Policies	1
PHAR 777	Health Outcomes Research Designs	2
Capstone Experience		3
PHAR 788	Graduate Seminar in Health Outcomes Research
PHAR 795	Independent Study
PHAR 797	Research
Other Requirements
An advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE) in Research, Managed Care, or Pharmaceutical or Industry
Total Hours		8

Translational Pharmacy Research Area of Emphasis

Overview

Research is an integral component of the education and practice of pharmacy, enabling development of new information, technologies, and processes which are essential for improving patient care, therapeutics outcomes and growth of the profession. The importance of research in the profession of pharmacy is well established. The Area of Emphasis (AoE) in Translational Pharmacy Research will allow students to understand and recognize the importance of translational research (e.g., how basic sciences contributions are applied in improving the quality of patients’ health, how observations in the clinic direct new scientific hypotheses, and how health services and outcomes research impacts access, cost, quality and outcomes of health care).

Objectives

Upon completion of the requirements on the area of emphasis in translational pharmacy research, students will be able to:

Understand and engage in the research process through research-related coursework and research projects that are relevant to the pharmacy profession.
Acquire knowledge of current and emerging new technologies and processes of patient care in diverse health disciplines.
Develop critical and conceptual thinking skills that are essential for developing innovative research ideas.
Know ethics in research. Identify the various components of research team building including interdisciplinary and translational research training.
Communicate research projects to peers and advisors via written and verbal presentations.

Eligibility and Application Process

All Pharm.D. students in good academic standing are eligible for participation. Acceptance and continuation in the program is contingent on each student identifying a research mentor and committee members, who will guide the research progress and completion.

Students must enroll by the end of the P3 year. Applicants must provide:

a cover letter or email with intent to enroll
a brief essay describing the applicant’s future career goals and what they to gain through completion of the Area of Emphasis
a current curriculum vitae
an unofficial transcript will be accessed to verify academic standing.

Course Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Required research course:
PHAR 749	Pharmaceutical Investigation (2 credits can be achieved in two separate semesters) ^*	2
Research Elective(s)		4
PHAR 749	Pharmaceutical Investigation (Can repeat for 6 hours of credit)
PHAR 753	Social and Behavioral Theory and Health Outcomes Research
PHAR 755	Pharmacoeconomics
PHAR 756	Health Survey Research Methods
PHAR 769	Advanced Health Service Research Methods
BMS 700	Scientific Integrity
BMS 701	Scientific Rigor and Ethics
PHAR 777	Health Outcomes Research Designs
PHAR 779	Drug Discovery
PHAR 784	Pharmacology Journal Club
PHAR 785	Pharmacoepidemiology
PHAR 786	Health Services Research and Secondary Database
PHAR 788	Graduate Seminar in Health Outcomes Research
PHAR 796	Graduate Seminar
Select 2 additional credit hours from either the Research Electives list above or the Advanced Electives Related to Research Interests below		2
Advanced Electives Related to Research Interests
PHAR 705	Advanced Cardiology Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 713	Oncology Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 718	Pediatric Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 745	Critical Care Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 751	Geriatrics
PHAR 771	Introduction to Specialty Pharmacy
PHAR 775	Substances of Abuse
PHAR 720	AI and Health Data Science Research
PHAR 743	Teach to Learn: Learn to Teach
PHAR 615	Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Compounding
PHAR 620	Herbal Supplements and Phytotherapy
Other Requirements:
1. APPE Research-Related or Industry Rotation
2. Oral presentation of research to School of Pharmacy faculty and other students
3. Poster or Oral Presentation at Research Conference
Total Hours		8

*: Students may register for 1-2 hours of PHAR 749 research credit. Each credit hour equals 3 hours of laboratory or clinic based research per week.

Additional Requirements

Students involved in clinical research must take the CITI training for Human Research offered through WVU and which must be kept current.

Residency Preparation Area of Emphasis

Overview:

The completion of pharmacy practice residencies with or without a specialty emphasis is often required for clinical or administrative positions. Residency acquisition is a competitive endeavor, with minor differences in applications making a significant difference in success or failure of students to secure training positions. Pharmacists in residency training must have a strong clinical background, conduct clinical research, assist in pharmacy student education, and serve as leaders for the profession. The Area of Emphasis in Residency Preparation (hereafter referred to as AoE) aims to enhance the preparation and competitiveness of Doctor of Pharmacy students applying for a PGY-1 residency. The AoE focuses on providing didactic and experiential education, as well as one-on-one mentorship, to allow students to understand and appreciate the nuances of clinical pharmacy practice. This track will offer a roadmap for students to be successful in critical areas including scholarship experience, organizational involvement, experiential education, and additional basic tools for navigating the application and interview process. The experiences provided in the AoE will provide students with a strong core foundation upon which further training in a residency program can expand upon.

Students will be able to complete the requirements for the Area of Emphasis while earning their Doctor of Pharmacy degree without having to take additional credit hours.

Objectives

Upon completion of the requirements of the AoE program, students will be able to:

Identify fundamental issues of pharmacy practice
Display professional qualities befitting a pharmacist
Discuss career interests and potential paths available to achieve stated goals
Apply high-level interview and application preparation skills in the pursuit of advanced training

Eligibility and Application Process

All PharmD students in good academic and professional standing are eligible to apply for acceptance during the fall of their P2 year. Information will be emailed to students regarding the specific date that applications are due.

Applications must include:

A letter of interest
A current curriculum vitae

Additionally, an unofficial transcript will be obtained through the Office of Student Services.

After applications are reviewed, students will be invited for a brief interview with the coordinator(s) and/or clinical faculty members or clinical practitioners. Student admission into the track is dependent on resource availability, and may fluctuate yearly. Decisions for acceptance will be determined by the coordinator(s) and additional members of the AoE Selection Committee after review of the aforementioned application materials and interview.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Required Course:
PHAR 776	Preparing Residency Applicants	2
Clinical Development Electives		4
Select two of the following:
PHAR 705	Advanced Cardiology Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 707	Drug-Induced Diseases
PHAR 713	Oncology Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 718	Pediatric Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 745	Critical Care Pharmacotherapy
PHAR 748	Acute Care Case Studies
PHAR 751	Geriatrics
PHAR 771	Introduction to Specialty Pharmacy
PHAR 775	Substances of Abuse
PHAR 778	Travel Medicine and Global Pharmacy Practice
Professional Development Elective(s)
Select 2 credit hours from the either the Clinical Development list above or the professional development list below.		2
PHAR 720	AI and Health Data Science Research
PHAR 721	Advocacy and Leadership
PHAR 743	Teach to Learn: Learn to Teach
PHAR 749	Pharmaceutical Investigation
PHAR 774	Managed Care Principles and Policies
Other courses may be added to the list as approved by the Curriculum Committee
Other Requirements:
1. Successful completion of an Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE) schedule that includes at least 4 acute care/ambulatory care rotations
2. Completion of a research project
3. Participation in a mentorship program
Total Hours		8

Additional Requirements

Mentorship Program:

Each student will be assigned or will identify a faculty mentor to meet with regularly to discuss career goals, progression through the program, curriculum vitae development, and other issues that arise.
In addition, the AoE coordinator(s) will meet with the students as a group at least twice a semester to discuss global issues and professional development topics.

Research Project:

Each student must complete some type of scholarly project that is presented for dissemination in some venue. This can be a research project presented as a poster at a national meeting, a review article published in a peer-reviewed journal, a patient case series presented at the local WVU HSC research day, or any number of other options. The mentors assigned to students as part of this AoE are not necessarily scholarship mentors. Students may ask their mentors if they are able to work with them on a scholarly project; however, the onus is on the student to find an appropriate mentor and project. Students are encouraged to talk to the AoE coordinator(s) if they need assistance with completing this requirement of the AoE.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE) Rotations:

As part of the advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs), students will be required to complete an approved plan of study, which will include at least four acute or ambulatory care rotations.
All student APPE schedules must comply with Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) Standards.

Major Learning Outcomes

Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D.)

Educational Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the West Virginia University Doctor of Pharmacy degree program, the graduate will be able to accomplish the following educational outcomes (EOs):

Domains	Subdomain	Educational Outcomes and Related Suboutcomes
1 Knowledge	1.1 Scientific Thinker (Learner)	Seek, analyze, integrate, and apply foundational knowledge of medications and pharmacy practice (biomedical; pharmaceutical; social, behavioral, administrative; and clinical sciences; drug classes; and healthcare technology). a.Develop and demonstrate depth and breadth of knowledge of foundational scientific (e.g., biomedical, pharmaceutical, clinical, socioeconomic, humanistic, and healthcare technology [e.g., informatics, digital health]) concepts and skills. b.Perform calculations needed to fulfill duties and responsibilities in all aspects of pharmacy practice, e.g., drug dispensing, preparation, nutritional needs/content, and biostatistical and pharmacokinetic measures. c.Perform pharmaceutical compounding needed to fill prescriptions, including nonsterile and sterile preparations. d.Interpret prescriptions and medication orders and perform therapeutic substitutions when appropriate. e.Integrate knowledge from multiple foundational sciences to explain how specific drugs, drug classes, and drug delivery systems work; compare differences among therapeutic regimens; and evaluate their potential value in individuals and populations. f.Apply foundational knowledge and skills to resolve therapeutic problems, support health and wellness initiatives, and deliver contemporary pharmacy services to enhance patient-centered and population-based care. g.Apply scientific reasoning and critical thinking skills to evaluate information (e.g., scientific literature, emerging theories, technologies) and determine if it is factual, reliable, accurate, fair, objective, and/or appropriate by systematically examining the problem, evidence, and solution. h.Use evidence-based decision making by identifying appropriate questions to address and using databases and other resources to retrieve information. i.Analyze and incorporate epidemiologic, pharmacoeconomic, medication utilization, and quality improvement data when developing evidence-based programs and protocols. j.Apply knowledge of research methodology to understand or design basic, translational, clinical, population, and health services and outcomes research. k.Assess and apply information technology, including artificial intelligence tools, to enhance knowledge and skills.
2 Skills	2.1 Problem-solving process (Problem solver)	Use problem solving and critical thinking skills, along with an innovative mindset, to address challenges and promote positive change. a.Apply the PPCP process (i.e., collect, assess, plan, implement, follow-up) for problem solving. b.Employ critical thinking when making decisions or solving problems, including careful observation, analysis, and consideration of different perspectives; interpreting the information; and preparing logical and thoughtful conclusions.
	2.2 Communication (Communicator)	Actively engage, listen, and communicate verbally, nonverbally, and in writing when interacting with or educating an individual, group, or organization. a. Assess baseline knowledge and skills, actively listen, ask appropriate questions, and address communication barriers (e.g., biases, stereotypes, time constraints, privacy concerns) to gather information needed to improve outcomes. b.Tailor current, relevant information in an organized manner, in coordination with other health care professionals as appropriate, during communications. c.Use appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication skills, e.g., motivational interviewing, conflict resolution, assessing understanding, to interact with people of different ages, sexes, religions, races, ethnicity, and cultures, including patients, the public, health professionals and others, and evaluate its effectiveness. d.Use clear and concise professional written communication skills when providing information (including formal documents such as monographs, letters, or progress notes and informal communications such as other notes, e-mails, text messages) to patients, the public, health professionals, and others. e.Incorporate technology (e.g., telehealth, digital health applications), media, and other resources (e.g., interpreters) to facilitate or enhance professional communications and presentations.
	2.3 Cultural and structural humility (Ally)	Mitigate health disparities by considering, recognizing, and navigating cultural and structural factors (e.g, social determinants of health) to improve access and health outcomes. a.Engage in self-reflection with the intention to understand how one’s personal identities, biases (explicit, implicit), and experiences may influence one’s perspectives, interactions, and decision making. b.Identify the practices and values that foster belongingness with a varied or multicultural group of individuals. c.Navigate situations where injustices related to social differences, fairness, opportunity, accessibility, stigma, prejudice, and discrimination are present.
	2.4 Person-centered care (Provider)	Provide whole person care to individuals as the medication specialist using the Pharmacists’ Patient Care Process a.Collect subjective and objective information (e.g., consulting patient records, taking medication histories [including medication reconciliation as needed], performing basic physical assessments, health screenings, ordering/interpreting lab tests) to identify a patient’s medication-related problems important for diagnosis and care provision. b.Assess, interpret, and prioritize information and patient data to determine the appropriateness and effects of current therapy. c.Assess patients’ needs for self-therapy, including diagnoses for non-prescription drug use or non-pharmacological therapy, treatment recommendations, and need to triage to other health professionals. d.Diagnose and prescribe prescription drugs under limited circumstances, based on patient evaluation and assessment, in accordance with a state's pharmacist scope of practice. e.Evaluate pharmaceutical products, including analyses of drug, dosage form, delivery system and cost/benefit, when conducting a medication review or preparing a care plan. f.Formulate evidence-based and cost-effective care goals, plans, assessments, and recommendations, with emphasis on common chronic or high-risk conditions amenable to pharmacotherapy and patients at greater risk for adverse events. g.Collaborate with patients, caregivers, and health care professionals to implement individualized, person-centered care plans. h.Monitor and evaluate patients during therapy for drug product or pharmacotherapy problems, patient concerns, or adherence issues and recommend or implement solutions. i.Provide appropriate follow up with adjustments as needed to ensure the continued success of individual care plans. j.Document patient-care histories, management plans, drug reconciliations, medication therapy management, and/or other pharmacy related activities/services in charts/medical records and on forms needed for reimbursement. k.Counsel patients and/or caregivers about the following to help ensure a care plan’s success: i) medications (including use, storage, disposal), non-drug therapy, dietary supplements and natural products; ii) insurance and other options for obtaining necessary medications; iii) proper use of devices (e.g., administering, self-monitoring) and medical goods and equipment; and iv) healthy lifestyle changes.
	2.5 Advocacy (Advocate)	Promote the best interests of patients and/or the pharmacy profession within healthcare settings and at the community, state, or national level. a.Serve as an advocate for community, individual patient health, and medication therapy needs, including disadvantaged or underserved patients and those from varied cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, to assure their best interests are represented while honoring their autonomy and dignity. b.Educate and empower patients to take an active role in their health and incorporate recommendations for healthy living and self-care into care plans. c.Use appropriate resources to assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system to receive the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible. d.Commit to the advancement of the pharmacy profession and patient care through advocacy at the local, state, or national level.
	2.6 Medication-use process stewardship (Steward)	Optimize patient healthcare outcomes using human, financial, technological, and physical resources to improve the safety, efficacy, and environmental impact of medication-use systems. a.Describe the components of typical medication-use systems in a variety of settings and participate in these systems to prepare, dispense, distribute and administer medications to optimally serve patient’s drug-related needs. b.Demonstrate and apply knowledge of management principles including pharmacy operations, inventory and supply management, human and fiscal resources, marketing, and leadership to optimize the medication-use process. c.Develop a business plan for integrating sustainable clinical and distributive services that includes methods for supporting and obtaining reimbursement for clinical services provided to patients. d.Use current and emerging information and system technologies to enhance the safety and efficacy of each component of the medication-use process, including procurement, storage, prescribing, transcription, dispensing, administration, disposal (e.g., hazardous and nonhazardous drugs, controlled substances, parenteral medications, sharps handling), temperature control, regulatory requirements, monitoring, documentation, and supervising others. e.Demonstrate and apply knowledge of national standards, guidelines, bestpractices, current medical literature, and established principles and processes for safe medication use to protect patient safety. f.Actively participate in continuous quality improvement programs (e.g., adverse event and medication error reporting, risk prevention) and employ performance indicators to enhance the quality of care and cost effectiveness of services provided and to optimize safe, appropriate medication use g.Perform medication reconciliation services when transitioning from one care setting to another by communicating effectively with all involved health care professionals. h.Use knowledge of the organization and financing of the U.S. healthcare system to provide and effectively manage progressive pharmacy services. i.Actively participate in developing and performing medication use evaluations to identify and resolve drug therapy problems or concerns. j.Provide recommendations for developing and managing a formulary that incorporate pharmacoeconomic principles and evaluations. k.Actively participate in, and contribute to the development of, strategies to minimize drug misuse/abuse.
	2.7 Interprofessional Collaboration (Collaborator)	Actively engage and contribute as a healthcare team member by demonstrating core interprofessional competencies (i.e., values/ethics, roles/responsibilities, communication, teamwork/team care). a.Apply relationship-building values and team dynamic principles to collaborate with health care professionals, patients, and/or caregivers to ensure that desired patient-specific or population-based health outcomes are achieved. b.Facilitate team building among health care professionals by communicating in a responsive and responsible manner that develops and maintains an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared values, uses ethical decision-making, and places the patient at the forefront. c.Effectively utilize the knowledge, expertise, and unique roles of health care team providers to optimize patient care. d.Serve as the medication expert on a collaborative care team by managing and communicating the pharmacotherapy plan for patients’ medical conditions and by proactively providing drug information (e.g., evidence regarding efficacy, safety, formulations, pharmacokinetics, formulary status, cost, etc.) and other medication-related information as appropriate to team members. e.Accept responsibility for medication-related outcomes (e.g., monitoring, follow-up, safety, efficacy) on the care team.
	2.8 Population Health and Wellness (Promoter)	Assess factors that influence the health and wellness of a population and develop strategies to address those factors. a.Identify personal, social, economic, and environmental factors that influence individual and population health and wellness. b.Outline the steps for conducting a specific community health risk/needs assessment, including collecting, interpreting, and assessing relevant qualitative and quantitative data, and evaluating existing approaches for reducing risk and enhancing health and wellness. c.Suggest and design tailored interventions as needed to maximize population health and wellness in collaboration with health care or other personnel. d.Participate in preventive health services (e.g., vaccine recommendations for storage, handling, administration, and adverse reaction monitoring; providing recommendations for screening tests, pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis, contraception). e.Participate in disease management programs based upon identified needs and priorities (e.g., cost, access, and patient satisfaction considerations; common chronic conditions managed by pharmacotherapy) f. Promote public awareness of health promotion and disease preventionstrategies, which can include designing, developing, and disseminating public health related educational materials or services in a manner appropriate to the target community.
	2.9 Leadership (Leader)	Demonstrate the ability to influence and support the achievement of shared goals on a team, regardless of one’s role. a.Demonstrate understanding of one’s role on a team and determine when it is appropriate to use leadership and/or management skills to take responsibility in a leadership or supporting role. b.Serve as a positive role model in actions/communications for peers and other health care providers by maintaining a high standard for personal and professional demeanor and ethical conduct. c.Use persuasive communication when needed while respecting differing points of view in professional interactions. d.Engage team members by building shared goals, gathering input and feedback, utilizing individual strengths, managing conflict, and addressing factors affecting morale to promote team performance.
3 Attitudes	3.1 Self-awareness (Self-aware)	Examine, reflect on, and address personal and professional attributes (e.g., knowledge, metacognition, skills, abilities, beliefs, biases, motivation, help-seeking strategies, and emotional intelligence that could enhance or limit growth, development, & professional identity formation). a.Use metacognition (e.g., self-planning, monitoring, evaluating limitations) to understand and regulate one’s own thinking and learning. b.Approach tasks and situations with motivation (e.g., desire to learn, attention, interest, habits of mind, persistence, flexibility). c.Conduct self-assessments on a regular basis and create, implement, evaluate, and modify as needed plans for personal improvement and continuing professional development. d.Determine how to best address limitations, including seeking assistance when needed. e.Utilize elements of emotional intelligence when working with others. f.Provide constructive feedback when appropriate and accept constructive criticism and display a willingness to correct and learn from errors. g.Select and use constructive coping strategies or help-seeking behaviors (personal, professional, or academic support) to manage stress and improve well-being.
	3.2 Professionalism (Professional)	Exhibit attitudes and behaviors that embody a commitment to building and maintaining trust with patients, colleagues, other health care professionals, and society. a.Demonstrate compassion, empathy, honesty, integrity, ethical behavior and altruism in all interactions and communications with patients, families, and caregivers, while placing the patients’ needs and desires at the forefront. b.Conduct pharmacy practice duties and patient care responsibilities in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, statutes, and regulations, as well as professional and ethical guidelines and standards. c.Display preparation, initiative, and accountability consistent with a commitment to adding value and a commitment to excellence and recognize how one’s actions impact the perception of pharmacy by others. d.Navigate the balance between responsibility to self and others, seeking mentoring if needed. e.Develop competence in the pharmacy profession through ongoing, active and self-directed pursuit of new knowledge and skills. f.Identify and analyze emerging health care and pharmacy issues and incorporate new roles, products and services into practice that can improve patient outcomes. g.Accept accountability and responsibility for one’s words and actions in a variety of pharmacy environments (e.g., laboratory, community, hospital, ambulatory, industry, academia). h.Demonstrate creative thinking and a proactive mindset to envision better ways of accomplishing professional goals.

Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D.)

Graduate/Professional Catalog Information