Program Overview
Introduction to the MPH/PharmD Program
The coordinated Public Health/Pharmacy degree program is offered through the UAB School of Public Health and the Office of Research and Graduate Studies at Auburn University's Harrison School of Pharmacy or the Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy. This program allows students to earn an MPH with a concentration in Population Health, providing a solid foundation in public health.
Program Description
In this individualized concentration, students gain a solid foundation in public health through completion of the MPH core (based on the Evidence-based Public Health framework), an Applied Practice Experience (Internship), and an Integrative Learning Experience (Capstone). Students also select from among all master's level Public Health courses (e.g., health economics, strategic planning, health policy) to build a unique curriculum that supports their career goals. Specialized advising is provided to assist students in designing their individualized curriculum.
PharmD Program
The Auburn Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree program is a four-year course of study that requires the completion of the pre-pharmacy curriculum prior to enrollment and includes course work in:
- Biomedical sciences
- Pharmaceutical sciences
- Behavioral, social, and administrative pharmacy sciences
- Pharmacy practice
- Pharmacy practice experience
The Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy (PharmD) Pharmacy school consists of four years of coursework and pharmacy practice experiential education leading to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Admission to pharmacy school is competitive, and students may apply after completing two - three years of required pre-pharmacy coursework.
Importance of the MPH/PharmD
A CDC special issue, written by pharmacists, highlights the importance of collaboration between pharmacists and other sectors of the health care system, including public health. Pharmacists are important members of team-based care, particularly in the context of workforce shortages in healthcare. Having pharmacists on a health care team improves medication adherence and chronic condition management, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Curriculum
Students may complete the MPH portion of this coordinated degree program totally online, in class, or through a mix of online and in class experiences.
Admission
Students must apply separately to the MPH and PharmD programs. Upon acceptance to the PharmD program, dual degree students will be accepted automatically to the MPH degree program. To be eligible, students must have a Bachelor's degree or be enrolled in a Bachelor's degree program at the time of acceptance into the UAB MPH program for the MPH degree to be awarded.
Application Process
Students must apply to the MPH program through the UAB Graduate School, selecting "MPH dual program" and then the MPH/PharmD track. The test score field is required, and students must enter GRE or MCAT and a date to advance in the application. The reference letter field is also required, and students must enter three names from the PharmD application and select no when asked if they will be electronic submission.
Program Updates
Students should note that the Population Health program curriculum has been updated. If a student is submitting to switch from a different degree program or department into a Coordinated Degree or the General MPH in Population Health Degree, the student will be responsible for completing the current Population Health program requirements. Students should meet with the current program manager prior to submitting a petition to switch programs.