Program Overview

Veterinary Pharmacy Residency

The Veterinary Pharmacy Residency program at Colorado State University offers advanced postdoctoral training in veterinary clinical pharmacy and therapeutics. This 12-month program prepares participants to deliver comprehensive medication-related care to veterinary patients across a broad spectrum of conditions. The training positions residents to pursue board certification in veterinary pharmacy and diplomate status through the International College of Veterinary Pharmacy.

Program Description

During the program, residents build on foundational knowledge learned through their Doctor of Pharmacy program by participating in both inpatient and outpatient pharmacy services in small and large animal hospitals. Hands-on experience is gained in direct patient care, clinical research, practice management, teaching, and regulatory compliance. A clinical research project is also completed, and residents help teach veterinary and pharmacy students.

The residency begins on the first Monday in July and concludes on June 30 of the following year (or the preceding Friday if June 30 falls on a weekend).

Facilities

• Veterinary Teaching Hospital
• Johnson Family Equine Hospital

Training and Experience

Residents create a personalized training plan based on their interests, goals, and previous experiences. Core competencies are developed in:

• Veterinary pharmacology and therapeutics
• Clinical research methodology
• Pharmacy leadership and administration
• Veterinary drug regulations
• Pharmaceutical compounding
• Antimicrobial stewardship
• Teaching and educational outreach
• Drug information and evidence-based decision-making

13 required core rotations provide a strong foundational knowledge, while two elective rotations can be tailored to professional aspirations. Two two-week blocks are reserved for research compilation and conference attendance.

Required Rotations

• Orientation (six weeks)
• Small animal internal medicine (four weeks)
• Equine internal medicine (four weeks)
• Food animal medicine and surgery (two weeks)
• Urgent care and critical care (four weeks)
• Dermatology (two weeks)
• Anesthesia (two weeks)
• Avian and exotics (two weeks)
• Oncology (two weeks)
• Cardiology (two weeks)
• Community practice (two weeks)
• Research (two weeks)

Elective Rotations

• Neurology
• Small animal reproduction
• Ophthalmology
• Small animal orthopedic medicine and mobility
• Radiation oncology
• Dentistry
• Nutrition
• Livestock ambulatory
• Hospital administration
• Custom electives may be arranged upon request and feasibility

Application Information and Deadlines

Minimum qualifications include graduation from an accredited pharmacy school with a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), a current Colorado pharmacist license in good standing or eligibility to obtain one, and veterinary education or experience.

Selection of residents is based on academic achievement, career objectives, letters of recommendation, pharmacy work experience, and education or experience in veterinary medicine or veterinary pharmacy.

To apply, submit:

• Letter of intent stating why you want to pursue a veterinary pharmacy residency and how it will help you achieve your career goals
• Curriculum vitae
• Copy of official school transcripts
• Three letters of reference

Compensation and Benefits

Residents receive a stipend and full tuition coverage. For more information about Colorado State University employee benefits, residents can refer to the Human Resources website.