Introduction to the PharmD/PhD Program

The PharmD/PhD program at North Dakota State University is designed to provide outstanding professional students in the PharmD program with research experience and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Program Overview

The entry-level curriculum leading to the professional Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree requires a minimum of six years of study. The dual program (PharmD/PhD) is designed to be completed with an additional three years of study and research placed between the second and third years of the four-year professional PharmD program.

Admission Requirements

Students in the PharmD program must apply to the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences by December 15 at the end of the fall term of their second year (P2) in the program for acceptance into the PharmD/PhD program. They should have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above. At the same time, an application to the graduate school should also be made, and the GRE should be taken by the end of this semester.

Course Requirements

The PharmD curriculum remains unchanged. During the three graduate years, students will be required to complete:

• STAT 725 (3 credits)
• BIOC 701 (4 credits)
• BIOC 702 (4 credits) In addition, students may take other 700-level courses available in the department and university.

PhD Graduate Dissertation Years

Students will receive a monthly stipend and tuition waiver during the PhD graduate years. They will be required to complete:

• 1 credit Seminar (PSCI 790) in the fall and spring semesters of each graduate year
• 60 thesis research credits (PSCI 799) during the three graduate years

Program Requirements

Once accepted into the dual degree program, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above.

PhD Summary

The PhD program requires:

• 12 credits of 600-level courses
• At least 18 out of 21 suggested credits of 700-level courses
• 6 credits of seminar
• 60 credits of dissertation This gives a total of 96 graduate credits. Up to 12 credits of 600-level courses can be used for the PharmD.

Suggested Course Schedule

The suggested course schedule for PharmD/PhD students is as follows:

• P-1 Year: Remain the same, with a research rotation in three laboratories during the summer
• P-2 Year: Remain the same
• G-1 Year:
  • BIOC 701 (4 credits)
  • BIOC 702 (4 credits)
  • STAT 725 (3 credits)
  • PSCI 790 (2 credits)
  • PSCI 799 (15 credits)
  • PSCI 611 (3 credits)
  • PSCI 670 (3 credits)
• G-2 Year:
  • PSCI 790 (2 credits)
  • PSCI 799 (25 credits)
  • At least two of the following 3-credit courses: PSCI 612/613/614/615
• G-3 Year:
  • PSCI 790 (2 credits)
  • PSCI 799 (20 credits)
• P-3 Year: Unchanged
• P-4 Year: Unchanged

Conclusion

The PharmD/PhD program at North Dakota State University provides students with a unique opportunity to combine their professional PharmD degree with a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, enhancing their research background, critical thinking skills, and marketability for leadership positions in academic, government, and industrial environments.

North Dakota State University

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Overview:

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a public, land-grant, research university located in Fargo, North Dakota. It is a top-ranked R1 institution, known for its commitment to student-focused learning and its dedication to research. NDSU provides affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Admission:

NDSU provides comprehensive admission services, including application assistance, financial aid information, and campus visits.

Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Campus Life:

NDSU provides a vibrant campus life with various co-curricular activities, dining services, residence life options, and athletic events.

Student Support:

NDSU offers support services such as career advising, counseling, and wellness resources.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU provides ample research opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Online Programs:

NDSU offers a variety of online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various co-curricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. The university also provides a variety of dining options, residence halls, and recreational facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

NDSU offers an excellent education at an affordable price.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Hands-on Learning:

NDSU emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields.

Strong Faculty:

NDSU has a strong faculty committed to teaching and mentoring students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community.

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Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Agriculture and Biological Systems:

NDSU is a leading institution in agriculture and biological systems, with strong programs in areas such as animal science, plant science, and biotechnology.

Engineering and Architecture:

NDSU offers a variety of engineering and architecture programs, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture.

Health Sciences:

NDSU has a strong presence in health sciences, with programs in areas such as nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

NDSU offers a variety of humanities and social sciences programs, including English, history, and political science.

Business and Economics:

NDSU has a strong business and economics program, with programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.

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Other:

NDSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it offers a variety of resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.