An Elective Course for Student Pharmacists on Pharmaceutical Industry Practice

Abstract

Objective. To design and implement an elective course on pharmaceutical industry practice and assess its impact on student pharmacists' knowledge and perceptions. Methods. This was a two-credit hour, elective course offered to second- and third-year student pharmacists during the 2015 and 2016 spring semesters. The goal of this course was to provide instruction regarding skills and competencies for pharmaceutical industry practice. Curricular content included didactic instruction, assigned readings, weekly quizzes, classroom discussion of industry-based functions and responsibilities, and three application projects. A 65-item survey instrument was developed to assess changes in student pharmacists' perceptions and understanding of pharmaceutical industry practice. Results. Forty-four students enrolled in the elective course over the two offerings. The average rating on the course evaluation was 4.7 out of 5. Average scores on graded quizzes were 90%, and grades on the application projects ranged from 92% to 99%. There was an increase in the number of students who perceived that they understood various functions and roles in the pharmaceutical industry, and who rated themselves confident in completing unique tasks associated with pharmaceutical industry practice. Furthermore, there was an increase in the number of students who reported improved perceptions regarding the trustworthiness of the pharmaceutical industry, costs of prescription medications, and promotional advertising for branded prescription medication. Conclusion. Student pharmacists' perceptions of the course were positive, and overall perceptions and understanding of the pharmaceutical industry improved. Active collaboration between colleges and pharmaceutical companies can lead to positive educational opportunities for students interested in pharmaceutical industry careers.