Perceptions of Campus Experiences by African-American Pharmacy Students Based on Institutional Type

Abstract

Objectives. This study compared perceptions of campus experiences between African American students at historically black colleges of pharmacy (HBCPs) and those at predominantly white colleges of pharmacy (PWCPs). Methods. A written survey instrument was administered to a convenience sample of minority pharmacy students who attended a national meeting of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association. Results. Responses were received from students who attended all 5 HBCPs (n = 16) and 24 PWCPs (n = 59) in the US. Contrary to the general college impact literature, these findings revealed no significant differences in the perceptions of campus experiences between African American students at HBCPs and those at PWCPs with regards to academic advising, campus climate, campus life, campus support services, instructional effectiveness, and student centeredness. Students at HBCPs showed higher satisfaction scores for a survey item on campus responsiveness to diverse populations. Conclusions. Results should help extend knowledge about African American pharmacy students’ college experiences and guide programmatic initiatives that foster increased retention and recruitment.