Program Overview
Introduction to the Pharm.D. Program
The Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) Program at Alfaisal University is designed to provide a solid foundation in the basic sciences, integrating pharmaceutical sciences, social/administrative/behavioral sciences, and clinical sciences. The program uses the "SPICES" curriculum model, which includes student-centered/active learning, problem/practice-based, integrated, community/systems-based, electives, and systematic approaches.
Program Objectives
The Pharm.D. program prepares clinical pharmacists to provide comprehensive medication management using a patient-centered approach within interprofessional health care teams. The program requires a total of six years, including a University Preparatory Program (UPP) in the first year, followed by four years of didactic, practicum/simulation, and introductory practice experiences, and a final year of advanced clinical/experiential education.
Program Structure
The program is divided into six years, with the following structure:
- First year: University Preparatory Program (UPP) - Medical and Pharmacy track (23 credits)
- Second-fifth year: Didactic courses, practicum/simulation laboratory, and introductory practice experiences (135 credits)
- Sixth year: Advanced clinical/experiential education via Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotations (40 credits)
- Total: 198 credits
Program Outcomes
At the conclusion of the Pharm.D. Program, all graduates will achieve the following outcomes:
- Demonstrate a scientific foundation as related to the clinical, pharmaceutical, and social/administrative/behavioral sciences.
- Identify and evaluate research methods and demonstrate research skills relevant to the pharmacy profession.
- Integrate systems management concepts in the pharmacy profession.
- Practice evidence-based decision making and implement pharmaceutical care plans.
- Provide comprehensive medication management to optimize medication use and health outcomes.
- Promote and implement public health, wellness, and disease prevention concepts.
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
- Demonstrate a commitment to continuous professional and leadership development.
Pharm.D. Program Learning Outline
The program learning outcomes are carefully planned learning processes that follow the educational outcomes outlined by the Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC)–Saudi Arabia. The program learning outcomes include:
- A Safe Practitioner: Ensure patient safety by consistently applying best practices.
- A Collaborator: Actively participate and engage as a healthcare team member.
- A Communicator: Effectively communicate verbally and nonverbally.
- An Advocate: Assure that patients' best interests are represented.
- A Leader: Demonstrate responsibility for creating and achieving shared goals.
- A Professional: Exhibit behaviors and values consistent with the trust given to the profession.
- A Lifelong Learner: Develop, integrate, and apply knowledge from the foundational sciences.
Essential Knowledge Units (EKUs) and General Knowledge Units (GKUs)
The program includes Essential Knowledge Units (EKUs) and General Knowledge Units (GKUs) that outline the minimum requirements pharmacy students must meet before graduation. The EKUs and GKUs are detailed in tables, including:
- Table 1: Essential Knowledge Unit (EKU) of College of Pharmacy PharmD Program
- Table 2: Generalized and Specialized Knowledge Units (GKU & SKU) of College of Pharmacy PharmD Program
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
The department is committed to educating and training pharmacy students in subjects focusing on the design, action, and disposition of drugs.
Department of Pharmacy Practice
The department is committed to developing excellence in the profession through integration of taught courses and experiential education.
Conclusion
The Pharm.D. program at Alfaisal University is designed to provide a comprehensive education in pharmacy, preparing graduates to provide patient-centered care and become leaders in the profession.
