Non-Doctoral and Dual Degree Offerings in US Pharmacy Schools

Abstract

Objective. To determine the number and types of non-terminal degree programs offered at US schools and colleges of pharmacy. Methods. The websites of 136 schools and colleges of pharmacy that offered the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and were accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education were examined to see if they also offered any non-terminal degrees. The school web sites were also compared to identify any variations in degrees offered based on class size, institution type (public or private), and age of program. Results. Thirty programs did not offer any additional degree programs. Twenty-three schools (17%) offered a bachelor's degree(s) program, 17 of which were standalone Bachelor of Science programs, five were restricted availability or pass-through degrees and one offered both. Restricted availability is a bachelor's degree given to students who reach milestones in the PharmD program, but they must be in the PharmD program to receive the degree. Research-based and administrative-based master's degree programs were offered by 56 (41.1%) and 28 (20.6%) schools respectively. Finally, 92 (67.6%) schools offered dual degree programs where students could simultaneously earn their PharmD and an additional degree. Conclusion. Given the challenges that US pharmacy schools face with decreasing applicants and lower enrollment in PharmD programs, they may find this data helpful as they consider solutions such as adding additional degree programs.