Mission

The graduate program in pharmacotherapy is designed to develop an individual who is educated and trained to conduct translational research integrating both science and practice. The graduate will be able to independently engage in the discovery, dissemination and application of pharmaceutical and biomedical knowledge to improve the health status of society.

Graduate Competencies

1. Skilled as a scientist; observes phenomenon, proposes research questions, generates hypotheses, conducts systematic experimentation and data collection, and revises models to reflect increased understanding;
2. Able to conduct independent research in pharmacotherapeutics and the biomedical sciences;
3. Clinically competent in a specialty area of pharmacy practice which complements the graduate's research focus;
4. Capable of effectively communicating research and clinical findings to pharmaceutical, medical and basic science audiences.
5. Capable of competing successfully for peer-reviewed grants.

Degree Requirements

The curriculum will include rigorous course work and practical training in scientific methods and an area of specialized practice. The academic and research program are tailored to meet a student's specific interests and professional goals and are decided upon by the student and the supervising professor. The curriculum will include core and elective courses deemed essential to develop comprehensive knowledge and skills in the selected area of investigation. Core courses include advanced biostatistics, two semesters of pharmacodynamics, pharmaceutical analysis, molecular biology, research design and methods, and ethics in research and practice.

Admission Criteria

Applicants should hold a baccalaureate or Pharm.D. degree from a College of Pharmacy accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education. In addition to the usual graduate school admission criteria, applicants are evaluated on their potential for creative thought, independent work and scholarship in clinical pharmacy research and practice as assessed by letters of recommendation and prior accomplishments; ability to communicate effectively with scientific and professional colleagues as assessed by personal interview, personal statement and letters of recommendation; and professional practice experience. The graduate program in Pharmacotherapy is one of six areas of specialization within the Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences. The others are Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology/Toxicology and Health Outcomes and Pharmacy Practice, and interdisciplinary studies.