Program Overview
Introduction to the Pharmacy Program
The South Dakota State University College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions offers a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. The Pharm.D. program is a four-year professional degree that requires the completion of the pre-pharmacy curriculum (typically two years) and the professional program (four years).
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the Pharm.D. program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
- Earn a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the pre-pharmacy curriculum
- Complete all pre-pharmacy coursework with a grade of C or better
- Take the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)
- Submit three letters of recommendation
- Submit a personal statement
- Participate in an on-campus interview
Curriculum
The Pharm.D. program consists of four years of professional study. The curriculum includes coursework in the following areas:
- Pharmaceutical sciences
- Pharmacy practice
- Clinical sciences
- Administrative sciences
- Electives
The curriculum also includes a variety of clinical experiences, including rotations in:
- Community pharmacy
- Hospital pharmacy
- Clinical pharmacy
Career Opportunities
Pharmacists are in high demand and can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Community pharmacies
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Nursing homes
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Government agencies
- Academic institutions The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of pharmacists will grow 6% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Faculty and Staff
The College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions has a diverse and experienced faculty and staff. Our faculty includes pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, and other healthcare professionals who are dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to our students.
Accreditation
The South Dakota State University College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). The ACPE is the national agency responsible for accrediting pharmacy education programs in the United States.