Predictors of academic performance of pharmacy students based on admission criteria in a 3-year pharmacy program

Abstract

Objective Several studies have found a significant positive association between admission criteria (math/science grade point average [GPA], pharmacy college admission test (PCAT) scores, and having a prior bachelor's degree) and academic performance of students in four-year pharmacy programs. It is unclear whether these factors are valid when applied to three-year pharmacy programs. The purpose of this study was to determine which admissions criteria explain academic performance in a three-year pharmacy program. Methods A retrospective regression analysis was performed to model student assessment scores as a function of admissions and demographic factors. Results Math/science prerequisite GPA and age were significant predictors of academic performance in both first-year and second-year classes. In addition, applied/health/physical science degree–holders performed better than students without a bachelor's degree in first-year classes. Conclusion Our results revealed that admission variables, such as math/science prerequisite GPA and prior bachelor's degree, predicted academic performance in the first and second professional years of a three-year Doctor of Pharmacy program. These findings are consistent with previous studies at four-year Doctor of Pharmacy programs.