A Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) is the required degree necessary to practice pharmacy in the United States. It is an intensive doctoral program similar to that of a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.).
PharmD programs include extensive didactic clinical preparation, hands-on clinical practice experience in a wide array of health care settings, and an emphasis on clinical pharmacy practice. Requirements in the US to becoming a pharmacist include: graduating from a Doctor of Pharmacy from an ACPE accredited program, conducting a specified number of hours in internship under a licensed pharmacist, passing the NAPLEX, and passing a Multi-state Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE).
Residency is an option that is typically one to two years in length post-graduation allowing a student to specialize in a specific area of pharmacy, such as oncology or pediatrics.
Please Note: If you are in the OIG (Office of the Inspector General) Exclusion Database you will not be able to complete the curriculum of the PharmD program. Health care entities are prohibited from having workers or students in the OIG Exclusion database.
Application Deadlines
Early Decision: Tuesday, September 4, 2018
General Decision: Monday, June 3, 2019
Call the Office of Student Affairs at: (304) 696-7354, or email at pharmacy@marshall.edu for more information.
Pharmacy degrees were previously awarded as an undergraduate degree, but academic and professional standards have changed to require a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. Marshall currently provides a four-year Pharm.D. degree with classes in session from August to May each academic year.
The Marshall Pharm.D. program does not require a Bachelor’s degree for admission. Students can complete the necessary prerequisite coursework for pharmacy school in as few as two years.
Pre-Pharmacy Prerequisite Coursework (Fall 2019)
Admission to the Marshall School of Pharmacy Pharm. D. program is competitive. In order to be successfully considered for admission, applicants should meet the following requirements:
- A recommended minimum 2.5 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale,
- A recommended minimum 2.75 prerequisite coursework GPA on a 4.0 scale, and
- Completion of the PCAT, a PCAT score of 50 composite percentile or above, is recommended to be competitive
- Successful completion of the following pre-pharmacy prerequisite coursework.
(Successful completion is defined as receiving a “C” or better in the indicated course.)
| English Composition | 6 credit hours OR 2 semesters |
| Calculus | 3 credit hours OR 1 semester |
| Statistics | 3 credit hours OR 1 semester |
| Biology w/ Lab | 8 credit hours OR 2 semesters |
| Chemistry w/ Lab | 8 credit hours OR 2 semesters |
| Human Anatomy w/ Lab | 4 credit hours OR 1 semester |
| Human Physiology w/ Lab | 4 credit hours OR 1 semester |
| Microbiology w/ Lab | 4 credit hours OR 1 semester |
| Organic Chemistry w/ Lab | 8 credit hours OR 2 semesters |
| Physics w/ Lab | 4 credit hours OR 1 semester |
| Social Science | 3 credit hours OR 1 semester |
Total minimum credit hours: 55 hours
- CLICK HERE to download a helpful Pre-Requisite Digital Worksheet to help keep track of your coursework.
If you have questions regarding substitutions for prerequisite coursework, please email pharmacy@marshall.edu and include the following: name of college/university, course description, and course syllabus.
The Marshall School of Pharmacy takes a holistic view of an applicant’s background for the purpose of admission. The following guidelines are required to be met for admission:
1. Completion of the PCAT (Pharmacy College Admissions Test) within two years prior to the date of application. A composite percentile score of 50 or above is recommended.
2. Expected completion of all pre-pharmacy coursework prior to fall enrollment, with a recommended minimum GPA of 2.5 overall and 2.75 for pre-requisite coursework. (Please note: completion of an undergraduate degree is not required.)
3. Completion and submission of all required application documents and fees (see instructions below)
4. Satisfactory completion of on-campus candidate interview
International applicants should complete the TOEFL with a minimum composite score of 80.
Step 1
Students must complete an application for admission via the PharmCAS website. Applications must be completed and submitted electronically by the appropriate application deadline.
2018-19 Deadlines
- Early Decision: September 4, 2018
- Regular Decision: June 3, 2019
As part of the PharmCAS application, you will be expected to:
(a) Submit an official College/University transcript to PharmCAS from each previously attended college. Advise the Registrar’s Office to enclose the PharmCAS Transcript Request Form with your official sealed transcript and mail it directly to PharmCAS. If the form is not included with your transcript, PharmCAS may have difficulty matching your transcript to your application and it may be delayed.
PHARMCAS TRANSCRIPT DEPARTMENT
PO Box 9109
Watertown, MA 02471-4403
(b) Request your PCAT scores be sent to PharmCAS (Code #104). Remember to include your CID number on the application so your scores can be matched to your application. The highest composite score will be accepted. The PCAT must have been completed within two years prior to the date of application.
(c) Secure three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation are key in the initial review for interview consideration. Highest consideration of recommendations are allotted to those who can attest to your academic success in the program, such as an academic advisor or faculty member.
Step 2
In addition to PharmCAS, a supplemental application must be submitted along with a non-refundable $100 supplemental application fee. For students applying via Early Decision for the 2018-19 Admissions Cycle, the supplemental application fee will be waived.
Step 3
Prepare for an interview. After submission and verification of the PharmCAS application and supplement, the Admissions Committee will invite selected students for an on-site interview during the months of October (for Early Decision) through June. Candidates selected for admission will receive an offer within one to two weeks post-interview. Click here to read more about the Marshall School of Pharmacy interview process.
Step 4
Apply for the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after October 1. The FAFSA determines student eligibility for federal and state financial aid. Read more about financial aid at the Marshall School of Pharmacy in our Frequently Asked Questions.
Step 5
Apply for scholarships. The School of Pharmacy offers a variety of student scholarships for students in their first through third year. Visit the Scholarship Opportunities page for information and application forms for current awards.
The deadline for all scholarship applications is March 15th of each year. Applications should be submitted to the Office of Student Affairs at musopscholarships@marshall.edu. Questions about the scholarships should be directed to the Office of Student Affairs at (304) 696-7354 or montgomeryma@marshall.edu with any questions.
Step 6
Upon admission, submit your $500 enrollment deposit. If you are admitted to the Marshall School of Pharmacy, you will be notified via mail. Students are required to pay a non-refundable $500 enrollment deposit to save a seat in the class. Most deadlines are within two weeks of receiving your admissions letter.
Once you sign and return your deposit, than you can officially declare yourself as a member of the Herd and the newest member of the Marshall “Pharmily.” Once your coursework is complete, you will mail your transcripts to the Marshall University School of Pharmacy to verify successful completion of coursework, receiving a C or better in each of the indicated prerequisite courses. Once your academic update has been verified, you will be enrolled in coursework for the fall semester.
Please contact the Office of Student Affairs at (304) 696-7354 or erlewine2@marshall.edu with any questions.
Step 7
Contact Graduate Admissions to Submit and Complete Marshall University Required Documentation. Once you sign and return your $500 deposit to MUSOP, you will also need to contact Marshall University Graduate Admissions to pay the $40 non-refundable application fee. We will provide them with your application. Please do not submit the online graduate application. The non-refundable fee is assessed by the University as part of their admissions and enrollment process. Online applicants can pay the fee securely online using a credit card at the time of application, or you may mail a check or call the Admissions Office at 304.746.1900 to pay by credit card over the phone. Check, money order, or bank draft payable to Marshall University are also accepted. Contact MU Graduate Admissions at 304.746.1900 or services@marshall.edu with any questions.
Other Circumstances
>> Re-Applicants <<
Students are encouraged to reapply if previously not admitted into the School of Pharmacy. Students can use their PharmCAS application from the previous year, which will include all data entered (which cannot be changed, only added to). Students will still need to submit new transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Students interested in re-applying to the Pharm.D. program are welcome to speak with the Office of Student Affairs to discuss suggestions for improving their pharmacy application.
To speak with an individual regarding reapplying, contact (304) 696-7354 or e-mail pharmacy@marshall.edu.
>> Transfer Students <<
Applicants interested in transferring from another school/college of pharmacy are considered a special circumstance. Transfer students are required to first contact the Office of Student Affairs to discuss the Student Transfer Policy and identify an individualized degree plan. The transferring student must meet the minimum admission requirements and complete a full admission assessment similar to the traditional application process. Students interested in a potential transfer can contact Kelli Kerbawy.
A student is considered a transfer student if currently:
a) enrolled at a college/school of pharmacy, and
b) are considered in good standing at their current institution.
First Year (P1) – Fall
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| PHAR 541 | Intro to Pharmacy 1 | 4 |
| PHAR 542 | Immunology and Microbiology | 4 |
| PHAR 546 | Pharm Biochemistry | 4 |
| PHAR 511 | Clinical Immunology | 1 |
| PHAR 531 | Biopharmaceutics 1 | 3 |
| PHAR 522 | Intro to MedChem | 2 |
| Total Semester Hours: | 18 |
First Year (P1) – Spring
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 543 | Intro to Pharmacy 2 | 4 |
| PHAR 544 | Principles of Disease and Drug Action | 4 |
| PHAR 532 | Biopharmaceutics 2 | 3 |
| PHAR 521 | Integrated Lab I | 2 |
| PHAR 545 | Therapeutics 1 – OTC | 4 |
| PHAR 811 | IPPE Community 1 | 1 |
| PHAR 819 | IPPE Longitudinal | * |
| Total Semester Hours: | 18 |
First Year (P1) – Summer
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 821 | IPPE Institutional | 2 |
| Total Semester Hours: | 2 |
Second Year (P2) – Fall
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 631 | Pharmacometrics | 3 |
| PHAR 632 | Practice Management 1 – Leadership | 3 |
| PHAR 621 | Pharmacy Law and Ethics | 2 |
| PHAR 622 | Exploration of Competency and Responsibility in Pharmacy Practice (D. I. and Communications) | 2 |
| PHAR 661 | Therapeutics 2 – ID, Immuno, Skin, ENT | 6 |
| PHAR 611 | Integrated Lab II | 1 |
| PHAR 813 | IPPE Community 2 | 1 |
| PHAR 819 | IPPE Longitudinal | * |
| Total Semester Hours: | 18 |
Second Year (P2) – Spring
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 671 | Therapeutics 3 – Cardio, Renal, Electro, Pulmonary | 7 |
| PHAR 633 | Patient Care Lab 2 | 3 |
| PHAR 634 | Practice Management 2 – Financial Management | 3 |
| PHAR 612 | Therapeutic Drug Dosing (Clinical Pharmacometrics) | 1 |
| PHAR 635 | Bridging Research Outcomes and Patient Care (Clinical Study Design and Lit Review) | 3 |
| PHAR 819 | IPPE Longitudinal | * |
| Total Semester Hours: | 17 |
Second Year (P2) – Summer
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 816 | IPPE Inpatient Clinical Skills | 1 |
| PHAR 711 | MTM Certification Program | 1 |
| Total Semester Hours: | 2 |
Third Year (P3) – Fall
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 722 | Pharmacy Practice Management III: Patient Safety | 2 |
| PHAR 741 | Therapeutics 5 – Endocrine Diseases, Genitourinary Diseases, and Reproduction | 4 |
| PHAR 751 | Therapeutics 4 – Neurologic and Psychiatric diseases | 5 |
| PHAR ### | Elective | 3 |
| PHAR 815/817 | IPPE Management or Outpatient Clinical Skills | 1 |
| PHAR 819 | IPPE Longitudinal | * |
| Total Semester Hours: | 15 |
Third Year (P3) – Spring
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 731 | Case Studies in Pharmacy Practice | 3 |
| PHAR 761 | Therapeutics 6 – Hematological Diseases, Oncological Diseases, Musculoskeletal Diseases, Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hepatic Diseases, And Nutrition | 6 |
| PHAR 721 | Therapeutics 7 – Providing Care to Special Populations | 2 |
| PHAR ### | Elective | 3 |
| PHAR 815/817 | IPPE Management or Outpatient Clinical Skills | 1 |
| PHAR 819 | IPPE Longitudinal | 1 |
| PHAR 712 | APhA Diabetes Certificate Program | 1 |
| PHAR ### | NAPLEX and Law Review Pre-APPE | 0 |
| Total Semester Hours: | 17 |
Fourth Year (P4) – Fall/Spring/Summer
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| PHAR 881 | Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in General Medicine (APPE 1) | 5 |
| PHAR 882 | Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in Ambulatory Care /Primary Care (APPE 2) | 5 |
| PHAR 883 | Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in Community Pharmacy (APPE 3) | 5 |
| PHAR 884 | Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in Institutional Settings (APPE 4) | 5 |
| PHAR 885 | Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in Geriatrics (APPE 5) | 5 |
| PHAR 886 | Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in Diverse Populations (APPE 6) | 5 |
| PHAR ### | APPE 7 – Elective | 5 |
| PHAR ### | APPE 8 – Elective | 5 |
| PHAR 891 | Pharmacy Capstone – NAPLEX/Law Review/Testing | 4 |
| Total Semester Hours: | 44 |
Total Credit Hours: 150
These partnerships provide students with the opportunity to earn both a PharmD and additional graduate degree in 4 years.
PharmD/MBA (PDF)
PharmD/MPH (PDF)
Contacts:
Mr. Wes Spradlin, Associate Director, Graduate School of Management, spradlin2@marshall.edu
Dr. Anthony T. Woart, MBA, MA, Chair of Department of Public Health, Director of MPH Program, woarta@marshall.edu
Marshall University School of Pharmacy (MUSOP) offers an early assurance program known as the Pharmacy Early Assurance Scholars Program. The program is designed for outstanding high school students who are committed to the pursuance of pharmacy as a career upon graduation. The program is intended to recognize outstanding high school seniors with provisional early assurance to the MUSOP PharmD program. Students who are admitted into this program are expected to meet all requirements to successfully matriculate into the MUSOP PharmD Program at the beginning of their third year at the university.
Marshall Pharmacy Early Assurance Scholars Program
Program Requirements:
• Student must enroll as a freshman directly from high school.
• Student must indicate pre-pharmacy as their intended concentration upon entry to Marshall University. Note: Student should choose Biology or Chemistry as their major if choosing to pursue the BS to PharmD accelerated pathway option.
• All prerequisite coursework must be completed at Marshall University or at approved partner institution.* All coursework taken off campus must be obtained from an accredited U.S. institution for a letter grade. Pass/Fail, online/distance learning and foreign courses are not accepted.
• Student must maintain continuous full-time university enrollment (excluding summer terms).
*Waivers may be considered on a case-by-case basis for exceptional circumstances.
Admission Requirements:
Admission to the Early Assurance Pharmacy Program is highly selective.
• 3.4 unweighted high school GPA. *An adjusted GPA resulting from participation in advanced placement or honors courses will be used if provided by a high school official.
• 24 composite ACT (with Math sub-score of 21) OR a new SAT composite score of 1160
Students who do not demonstrate these proficiencies will not be eligible for admission through the Early Assurance program.
Prerequisite courses may be completed prior to high school graduation through AP or IB exam credit articulation.
Program Pathway & Expectations:
Pre-Pharmacy Pathway (6 Year Pathway to PharmD)
- Candidates must complete the Marshall School of Pharmacy prerequisite courses.
- Successful candidates must earn a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA upon application to the Doctor of Pharmacy program.
- Students are not required to take the PCAT. Students who wish to take the PCAT to supplement their application must do so no later than the January date prior to fall entry in the first professional year of the PharmD program. *Note – some scholarships may require a PCAT for consideration. Please contact the Office of Student Affairs for additional information.
Additional Program Requirements:
• All Marshall University prerequisite undergraduate courses must be completed with a grade equal to or greater than C, regardless of cumulative GPA.
• Repeat grades will not be used in computing the Early Assurance GPA, but an average of the original and repeated course.
• All Early Assurance pathway students will receive academic advising by the pre-professional academic advisor in the College of Science. Additionally, students will be granted full admission to the pre-pharmacy club with access to members-only networking events, exclusive merchandise, and all associated fees covered by the School of Pharmacy.
• Students who have less than the indicated GPA or grade requirements will no longer be eligible for Early Assurance, but will be re-designated as “pre-pharmacy” and encouraged to apply to the Doctor of Pharmacy program as a regular candidate.
• Early Assurance candidates must apply to the Doctor of Pharmacy program utilizing the Early Decision process. Candidates must successfully fulfill all requirements for admission including successful completion of an interview in accordance with the American Council for Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE) Guidelines.
*All admission offers are contingent upon completion of remaining coursework and matriculation requirements.
How to Apply
To be considered for Early Assurance, qualified students must complete the following:
1. Submit all items for general undergraduate admission to Marshall University as required the Office of Admissions. Applicants must indicate their concentration as “pre-pharmacy”.
2. Students must submit the Marshall Pharmacy Early Assurance Scholars Program Application no later than July 1 of the high school graduation year and can be found here. Additionally, a nonrefundable $50 application fee must be received by July 1 by the Office of Student Affairs at the Marshall University School of Pharmacy. *Please make checks payable to Marshall University School of Pharmacy.
Final decisions regarding admission to the Early Assurance Program will be communicated no later than August 1.
*Offer contingent on meeting minimum admissions and program requirements.
Questions? Please contact Megan Russell, Director of Recruitment, at jude21@marshall.edu or 304-696-6009.
Marshall prides itself on its affordability for students, offering one of the lowest in-state and out-of-state tuition and fees packages available. Click here to see a comparison of Marshall’s in-state and out-of-state tuition in comparison to peers in the region.
Each year, the School of Pharmacy aims to be respectful and responsible when determining annual tuition and fees, continually assessing national student debt and rates set by peer pharmacy schools around the country.
For up to date Cost of Attendance information, please visit http://www.marshall.edu/sfa and click on the Eligibility & Costs tab.
*Marshall University does not offer geographical metro rates for the PharmD doctoral program.
Note: Pharm.D. students take classes during two semester terms each year (fall and spring) except for the fourth year of the Pharm.D. program, when students begin Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) during the summer term.
>> Certifications
Marshall University School of Pharmacy covers the cost for 3 national APhA (American Pharmacists Association) certifications:
- APhA – Medication Therapy Management
- APhA – Immunization Delivery
- APhA – The Pharmacist & Patient-Centered Diabetes Care
>> Residency Classification
To be eligible for West Virginia residency, applicants, or the parents of dependent applicants, must reside in West Virginia continuously for twelve months prior to registration. Marriage to a West Virginia resident does not automatically confer resident status upon a nonresident spouse. However, full-time active military personnel assigned to and residing in West Virginia, their spouses and dependent children, are classified as in-state students. For more information, click here.
>> Student Health Insurance Requirement
As of August 2015, all PharmD students are required to have or purchase high-quality health insurance due to the inherent risks that pharmacy students are exposed to at experiential education sites. Information for the 2018-19 academic year will be updated as the new contract is awarded. Students may select health insurance plans through the default plan provided by AIG.
Students of the School of Pharmacy are AUTOMATICALLY enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan unless proof of other insurance coverage is demonstrated. All students who are enrolled may also insure their eligible dependents. Details as to the definititon of eligible student and eligible dependents, fees, and waiver requirements are available at www.studentinsurance.com.
Students who already have a health insurance plan that offers coverage meeting specific criteria can request a waiver of the requirement to purchase this plan. Students that anticipate requesting a waiver should carefully review the waiver criteria and requirements on the student health insurance plan website.
Financial Aid
The School of Pharmacy is committed to helping all eligible students achieve their educational goals regardless of their economic status. More than 90 percent of Marshall students are eligible to receive financial assistance, which may include federal and state grants, loans and private loans. A number of scholarships are also awarded each year to students based on academic performance and/or financial need.
2018-19 School of Pharmacy Financial Aid Information Packet 
Office of Student Financial Assistance
Financial Aid appeal forms can be found here:
2018-19 Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeal for Financial Aid Reinstatement
For detailed information on financing your Doctor of Pharmacy degree, please contact Jean Ann Bevans, Assistant Director of Student Financial Assistance, via email or by phone at (304) 696-2279.
>> WV Residents
Students who have not utilized four years of undergraduate financial aid prior to enrollment in the PharmD program may be eligible to use remaining federal undergraduate financial aid, as well as remaining West Virginia Promise Scholarship funds, for up to two years as a student at the Marshall School of Pharmacy.
Marshall undergraduate students may be eligible to utilize any remaining Marshall undergraduate academic scholarship funds for up to two years as a student at the Marshall School of Pharmacy.
>> Non-Residents
Marshall School of Pharmacy non-resident students who have not utilized four full years of undergraduate financial aid prior to enrollment in the PharmD program may be eligible to use remaining federal undergraduate financial aid funds for up to two years as a student at the Marshall School of Pharmacy.
School of Pharmacy Scholarships
Thanks to the generosity of friends and various organizations/ corporations, the Marshall School of Pharmacy awards nearly a quarter of a million dollars in scholarships to PharmD students annually.
Incoming pharmacy students are eligible for several scholarships administered by the School of Pharmacy scholarship committee. Incoming students receive scholarship notification prior to their incoming semester depending on availability.
To be eligible, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Funds are awarded on a first-come first-served basis based on the students’ state of residence. The application must be submitted for the academic year during which the student plans to be enrolled and reapplication is required for each year that aid is requested.
External Funding Opportunities
The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) provides online financial aid information, including information on scholarships, loans, grants and award information for current professional and graduate pharmacy students. Awards often require specific criteria for application, but most are open to pharmacy students nationwide.
For more information on financing your Doctor of Pharmacy degree, please contact the Assistant Director of Student Financial Assistance, Jean Ann Bevans in the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
Office hours are Thursday and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Old Main 116, and available by appointment on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You can also contact Ms. Bevans via email at bevans@marshall.edu or by phone at (304) 696-2279.
Question not answered?
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Send us an e-mail at pharmacy@marshall.edu.
The Basics
- What is a Doctor of Pharmacy?
- How long does it take to complete the PharmD program?
- Do you have a PhD or PharmD/MBA program?
- Can you complete the program online or part-time?
- How many students apply to the PharmD program? How many are accepted?
- Am I considered an in-state or out-of-state student?
- I really like Marshall, but I heard you weren’t fully accredited. Isn’t it important to go to an accredited School/College of Pharmacy?
- What does your academic calendar look like?
The Application Process
- When should I apply?
- What’s the difference between Early Decision vs. Regular Decision?
- Is a bachelor’s degree required for admission?
- When is the latest date I can take the PCAT?
- I am a terrible test taker. What is the absolute minimum PCAT score you will accept?
- Do I need to have all my prerequisites completed before I apply?
- Is there a time limit on prerequisite coursework?
- Can I take prerequisite courses at the School of Pharmacy?
- Do you admit international students?
- What are the requirements for letters of recommendation?
- Is work experience in the pharmacy field required for admission?
Coursework & Equivalencies
- My institution teaches Anatomy & Physiology as one course, not as two separate courses. Will it count?
- My institution teaches XXX class for 4 credits but it looks as though I need 5 credits. Will this count?
- Is there a time requirement for prerequisite coursework?
- I received a D the first time I took XXX prerequisite course, but received a B on the second attempt. Do you take the highest grade?
- Do you accept AP scores for prerequisites?
The Interview & Admission
- Can you tell me about the interview process?
- What should I wear?
- I can’t make it to Marshall. Can I Skype my interview?
- When will I receive my admission notification?
- Is there a waitlist for applicant admission?
- If I am not accepted, can I reapply?
Tuition & Financial Aid
- How much is tuition and fees?
- Is financial aid available?
- How do I apply?
- I have attended an institution for three years and will enroll my “senior” year as a P1 student into Marshall. Can I transfer my state or federal financial aid money I have left?
Experiential Learning
- How do rotations work?
- Am I required to have a driver’s license and vehicle?
- What is an IPPE and an APPE?
- Will IPPEs and APPEs completed within the curriculum meet the requirements for state licensure? Or will I need extra hours in addition to the program?
- Where will my IPPE locations be located?
- Can I have an APPE rotation in my hometown? OR I know a pharmacist in my hometown. Can I do an APPE rotation with them?
Miscellaneous
- Is a laptop required for the program?
- Can I work while in the PharmD program?
- Do you have block exams?
- Do you have any housing recommendations while in the program?
- Is parking available at the School of Pharmacy?
- What do all of those acronyms mean? [IPPE, APPE, MUSOP, OSCE, etc.]
The Basics
- What is a Doctor of Pharmacy?
A Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) is the required degree necessary to practice pharmacy in the United States. It is an intensive doctoral program similar to that of a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.).
PharmD programs include extensive didactic clinical preparation, hands-on clinical practice experience in a wide array of health care settings, and an emphasis on clinical pharmacy practice. Requirements in the US to becoming a pharmacist include: graduating from a Doctor of Pharmacy from an ACPE accredited program, conducting a specified number of hours in internship under a licensed pharmacist, passing the NAPLEX, and passing a Multi-state Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE).
Residency is an option that is typically one to two years in length post-graduation allowing a student to specialize in a specific area of pharmacy, such as oncology or pediatrics.
- How long does it take to complete the PharmD program?
Marshall’s PharmD program is a four-year program that is in session from August to May. Students have summers free, which helps prevent burnout and allows for summer employment.
- Do you have a PhD or PharmD/MBA program?
We currently do not have a Ph.D. program; however, we do offer two dual-degree programs. The PharmD/MBA and PharmD/MPH programs were launched in 2016 and provide students with the ability to diversify their education based on career goals. We also expect to launch a MSPS program in Fall 2018.
- Can you complete the program online or part-time?
No. The Marshall PharmD is available only at Marshall as a full-time program.
- How many students apply to the PharmD program? How many are accepted?
During the 2016-17 application cycle, we received approximately 300 applicants to fulfill 80 seats in the class. We interview approximately 120-150 to fill those seats.
- Am I considered an in-state or out-of-state student?
Residency is determined at the time of application. The Marshall School of Pharmacy provides in-state only to those who reside within West Virginia. There is currently no metro rate for those in nearby communities in Kentucky (Ashland, Cattletsburg) or Ohio (Chesapeake, Proctorville, Ironton). To be eligible for in-state residency, applicants, or the parents of dependent applicants, must reside in West Virginia continuously for twelve months prior to registration. Marriage to a West Virginia resident does not automatically confer resident status upon a nonresident spouse. However, full-time active military personnel assigned to and
residing in West Virginia, their spouses and dependent children, are classified as in-state students. For more information, click here.
Marshall University’s Doctor of Pharmacy program has been granted Accredited status by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, 135 South LaSalle Street, Suite 4100, Chicago, IL 60603, 312/644-3575; Fax 312/664-4652, website www.acpe-accredit.org.
You should feel confident in selecting Marshall as your choice for pharmacy school.
The School of Pharmacy follows a semester calendar, which coincides with the main University calendar. The Fall semester begins approximately the third week of August and continues through the second week of December. The Spring semester begins during the second week of January and continues until the first or second week in May. The School observes all national holidays, such as Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas / New Years, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as well as Spring Break (1 week) and Thanksgiving Break (3 days).
The Application Process
- When should I apply?
Similar to what you may have experienced as a high school senior, you will apply to pharmacy school the fall before the year you plan to enroll. Marshall has two deadlines: Early Decision in September and Regular Decision in March. You must submit each of the application requirements before the admissions committee will assess your application for an interview. After the interview, the admissions committee will make a decision on your admission status and will provide you with a notice within two to three weeks.
- What’s the difference between Early Decision and Regular Decision deadlines?
Early decision (September) is recommended for those who select Marshall as their top choice. You can select only one school early decision. You may be offered early admission, denied admission, or deferred to regular applicant status. If you are admitted, you are obligated to matriculate to the institution. If you are not admitted, PharmCAS reopens your application and allows you to apply elsewhere.
- Benefits:
- a guaranteed spot in the class upon admission
- the first interview date availability in October, and
- completion of the pharmacy school process by November, allowing you to focus on successful completion of courses through the remaining fall and spring with no interruption.
Regular decision (March) provides students a later date of application and is not binding upon admission. This allows students to apply and interview at multiple institutions. Seats in the class, however, are not guaranteed upon admission. Seats are available on a first come, first served basis. The first students to submit their deposit up to the 80-student cap will receive a seat in the class.
- Is a bachelor’s degree required for admission?
No. Students can complete their pharmacy prerequisites in as few as two years. However, many students prefer to complete them in three years or continue on to earn their bachelor’s degree. Students with a bachelor’s degree receive a few bonus points in the admissions process for demonstrating their ability to complete a program, but they do not receive priority over students who have only completed the minimum prerequisites.
- Do I need to have all my prerequisites completed before I apply?
No. Marshall only requires that you complete your prerequisites by the time you begin the PharmD program in the fall. You may take courses through the summer before you enroll.
- When is the latest date I can take the PCAT?
Marshall does not require you to have completed the PCAT prior to application, but does require the PCAT be completed prior to enrollment. We recommend taking the PCAT early, but will accept scores from July – January. Acceptance of the July PCAT of the year of enrollment will be on a student-by-student basis. PCAT scores must be taken within two years prior to application.
- I am a terrible test taker. What is the absolute minimum PCAT score you will accept?
Because we utilize a holistic admissions process, we do not have “set minimums” for the PCAT. However, to be compettive based on our applicant pool history, we recommend a PCAT of 50 or greater. With that said, we have admitted well above and slightly below that composite score. Often, the strength of the rest of your application can make up for a low test score!
Our greatest recommendation regarding the PCAT is to take it at the right time. Students often take the PCAT too early in their academic career, not allowing them to have the coursework under their belt needed to score successfully on the PCAT. We recommend you take a look at the PCAT sub-sections and the percentage of information within each section. Having courses like organic, microbiology, and calculus prior to the PCAT will be extremely helpful in securing a higher score.
- Do I need to have all my prerequisites completed before I apply?
Not at all! We expect that you will still have many courses left to complete when you apply.
The pharmacy school application process is very similar to what you may have experienced in high school. You will apply the fall of the year prior to enrolling, then make your decision after you have been admitted. However, we expect you will still be working towards completing the coursework you need.
Marshall allows you to continue your coursework through the summer prior to matriculation. Once you complete your last course, you will submit your final transcripts to the Marshall School of Pharmacy to finalize your admission. You must receive a C or better in each of the prerequisite courses for the course to count towards your application requirements. Marshall does not recognize “minus” or “plus” grades, thus a C- will count toward successful completion. All coursework must be completed prior to arrival at orientation in the fall.
- Is there a time limit on prerequisite coursework?
For the application cycle of 2018-19, there is currently no time limit on prerequisite coursework.
- Can I take prerequisite courses at the School of Pharmacy?
No. All prerequisite courses must be completed before you enroll as a student in the School of Pharmacy.
- Do you admit international students?
Yes. Marshall began admitting international students in Fall 2014. However, standards are very rigorous. Students must complete the admissions requirements as expected of all students, however, they must also submit TOEFL scores. We require a minimum TOEFL score of 80. Students must submit foreign transcripts through PharmCAS and use a foreign transcript evaluation service (World Education Services is preferred). Additional documentation, such as course descriptions and syllabi, may need to be submitted on a case-by-case basis.
- What are the requirements for the letters of recommendation?
We require a minimum of three letters of recommendation. Each recommendation is evaluated and scored. The recommendations with the highest scores are allocated to professors and academic advisors who can attest to your academic success in the program. Next preferred are supervisors. Fewest points are allocated to clergy, politicans, family and friends.
- Is work experience in the pharmacy field required?
Work experience is not required for admission, but it can show commitment to the field of pharmacy and demonstrate the work ethic of an applicant. Thus, if you have work experience, please note it in your application. It will not count against you, however, if you do not have any.
Coursework & Equivalencies
- My institution teaches Anatomy & Physiology as one course, not as two courses. Will it count?
Yes. However, instead of one semester of each individually, you will need two semesters of A&P (I and II) to meet the requirements.
- My institution teaches XXX class for 4 credits but it looks as though I need 5 credits. Will this count?
Yes. When looking at the prerequisite curriculum, we recommend you follow the “semester” recommendations if you are not a Marshall student. The credit hours reference coursework and credit hours for Marshall classes only. Semesters are referenced for non-Marshall students only. For instance, if you have a General Chemistry course with a lab embedded for 4 credit hours, but the prerequisite is listed as needing 5 credit hours OR one semester, then the course will count towards “one semester.” (Note for classes with labs: As long as any course description notes that the course includes the lecture with lab in the same course offering, it will be counted for credit as well.)
- Is there a time requirement for prerequisite coursework?
Currently, we do not have a time requirement for coursework that was completed as part of a previous degree. We do, however, require that the PCAT have been completed within the past two years.
- I received a D the first time I took XXX prerequisite course, but received a B on the second attempt. Do you take the highest grade only?
No, we utilize the standard PharmCAS GPA . If you had multiple attempts of the same prerequisite course, we would average the courses together. For example, if you received a D in Calculus, but retook the course and received a B, you would receive a C.
- Do you accept AP scores for prerequisites?
Yes, as long as the AP course was accepted at your home undergraduate institution. For example, if you attend Marshall undergraduate school, and Marshall undergrad accepts AP scores of 4 and above, than we will accept it as well. If your undergraduate institution accept AP scores of 3 and above, and you received a 2, we will not count the course as a prerequisite because your home institution did not.
Interview & Admission
- Can you tell me about the interview process?
The interview process is unlike many others. It is a full day, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rather than rush you in, bombard you with questions and push you out the door, we want to get to know you. The interview has three main parts:
1) the Standard Behavioral Interview – This is your storytelling time. You will be asked prompts that will require you to tell specific stories. (Ex: “Tell us about a time you had to show initiative on a project.”)
2) the Critical Thinking Test – Are you a critical thinker? Don’t expect to be asked about chemical functions, but rather, questions regarding reasoning. (Ex: “If A = B, and B = C, does A = C?”)
3) the Group Dilemma – Because our classrooms require a team-mentality, we want to see you in action with others. You and several “teammates” will receive a dilemma and will be expected to find a solution and present your findings.
Remember, our students, staff, and faculty will be assessing you throughout the day, so be attentive! From lunch to chit chatting while you try on your Marshall white coat, it’s all game.
- What should I wear?
Dress for interview day is considered business attire. What would you wear to a job interview? That’s what we expect on interview day. Appearance is made note of during the process.
- I can’t make it to the interview day. Can I Skype my interview?
Unfortunately, no. Due to Marshall’s unique curriculum, certain portions of the interview process require group interactions which cannot be assessed over a Skype call. We require all candidates to interview with us on-site.
- When will I receive my admission notification?
We don’t like to keep you waiting! Each Friday, our admissions committee will gather to determine who will be admitted from the previous weeks’ interviews. You should hear back from us within two weeks maximum. This gives us time to make a decision, construct your admission letter, and send it through mail.
- Is there a waitlist for applicant admission?
Instead of a waitlist, the School of Pharmacy maintains a “hold list.” Each admissions cycle, the hold list of individuals are re-assessed each week by the committee, as if they just interviewed, with the most recent set of reviewable students. This keeps the hold list individuals fresh in the minds of the committee, and allows them to be potentially admitted throughout the admissions cycle – rather than waiting for admission at the end of the cycle, like a traditional waitlist.
- If I am not accepted, can I reapply?
Absolutely. The Office of Student Affairs is always available to meet with students to outline a strategy for a successful admission. Each year, many re-applicants are successful in gaining admission.
Financial Aid
- How much is tuition?
Marshall’s tuition and fees are incredibly competitive. In fact, our out-of-state tuition is often less expensive than in-state tuition in other states, such as Kentucky, Ohio and Maryland. Current tuition and fees for the academic year can be found on the Tuition & Financial Aid page.
- Is financial aid available?
Yes. State and federal grants, loans and scholarships are available. More information about available financial aid for students can be found on the Tuition & Financial Aid page.
- How do I apply?
First, you will need to file the FAFSA. The FAFSA becomes available each year on January 1. The priority deadline for state and federal awards is March 1, but is accepted through July 1. Any state or federal awards will be presented based on filing the FAFSA form. Marshall has several scholarships available for the P1 through the P4 year. You can find their requirements, deadlines and applications on the Scholarship page.
- I plan on attending Marshall after three years in undergrad. Can I transfer any state or federal financial aid money I have left to the program?
Potentially. The first two years of the Marshall program is financially considered undergraduate, while the second two years is considered graduate. If you are a West Virginia resident and have remaining time for state awards (i.e. West Virginia Promise Scholarship), you may use that in your first year of the program. (If you have two years left, you can use it your first two years.) If you are out-of-state, you cannot transfer state awards to West Virginia. However, if you are either an in-state or out-of-state student and receive federal awards, such as grants (i.e. Pell Grant) or loans, you can use these awards toward your first and/or second year of pharmacy school, depending on your remaining years of eligibility. For more information about the School of Pharmacy’s financial aid, contact Missy White in the Financial Aid Office.
Experiential Learning
- How do rotations work?
Rotations are simply hands-on experiences in pharmacy. This gives you the opportunity to use what you’re learning in the classroom immediately in practice. It will be time where you will be supervised in a real-life environment practicing pharmacy a few times a semester off-campus. Your supervisor is called a preceptor and will assess you for a grade.
- Am I required to have a driver’s license and transportation?
Yes. A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required to successfully complete the PharmD program, as is the expectation of most PharmD programs. One benefit of the Marshall School of Pharmacy is the ability for students to experience pharmacy in multiple states. This means, however, IPPE sites can/will be located in an approximate 60 mile radius in Kentucky, Ohio, and/or West Virginia, while APPE locations could be located at sites outside this radius. Local transportation, such as the bus system, cannot reach all experiential sites, and thus should not be relied upon to do so. Students who feel like they cannot meet this requirement are recommended to reconsider application to the program.
- What is an IPPE and APPE?
You will hear these terms frequently in pharmacy school. An IPPE is an Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience, which places you in a community or institutional (hospital) setting for several weeks in your first, second, and third year. Your third year is the last year of your didactic classroom work. An APPE is an Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience, which puts you in eight 5-week rotations in your fourth year.
- Will IPPEs and APPEs completed within the curriculum meet the requirements for state licensure?
Yes. You will receive all hours needed for state licensure (in Kentucky, West Virginia and Ohio) within the design of the PharmD curriculum. You will not need to complete hours outside of the program.
- Where will my IPPE rotations be located?
IPPE rotations are typically located in community (retail) pharmacy and institutional (hospital) settings in your first two years. Your third year, you branch out into additional pharmacy settings such as geriatrics (nursing home, hospice care). Geographically, we do not send our students far for these rotations. You will likely experience time in Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia within an hour radius.
- Can I have an APPE rotation in my hometown? OR I know a pharmacist in my hometown, can I do an APPE rotation with them?
Possibly. If the Office of Experiential Learning already has a preceptor in that area to host you, then you can request that individual. If they do not, then you will need to speak with the office far in advance of your fourth year to develop a site rotation in that area. If you have someone in mind, you will need to work with the Office of Experiential Learning to have the preceptor fill out the necessary paperwork and undergo the necessary training to host you. Students will not be allowed to have parents precept them for pharmacy school credit.
Miscellaneous
- Is a laptop required for the program?
Yes. It is expected that you will complete most exams and major assessments via your personal computer. If you do not have a personal laptop, money is built in to the “cost of attendance” for purchase of one.
- Can I work while in the PharmD program?
Pharmacy school is a full-time doctoral program and thus is very intensive and challenging. But, it can be done. We do have students who work up to 20 hours per week to supplement their income. We recommend you adjust to the program in the early stages and speaking with students in the program before you make any commitments outside of the program.
- Do you have block exams?
Unlike most pharmacy schools in the region, we DO NOT have block exams. Marshall feels block exams are a disservice to student learning, as it encourages “cramming” rather than fully retaining the information.
- Do you have any housing recommendations while in the program?
There are several opportunities for housing in and around the School of Pharmacy and VA Hospital. We recommend you contact one of our Ambassadors to get the student recommendations of housing in the Huntington area.
- Is parking available at the School of Pharmacy?
The School of Pharmacy is located adjacent to the federal Veteran’s Affairs Hospital. Because of this, on-site parking lots are allocated to veterans who have bravely served our country, as well as the nurses, physicians, pharmacists and staff of the VA Hospital who provide their care. Because of this, the School of Pharmacy has opted to spend more than a $100,000 per year to provide students with the best available parking and transportation options to and from the building.
All students park at Camden Park, approximately 2.2 miles from the School of Pharmacy. Two continuous shuttles operate daily between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., picking up and dropping students off directly at the School of Pharmacy door. Students can park at the VA after 5 p.m. and on weekends.
- What do all of those acronyms mean?
In pharmacy, you’ll notice we have a lot of acronyms and may throw them around with little explanation. Here is a quick outline of some of them you may hear while chatting with a student, visiting the School, or skimming our website:
- P#: This indicates your year in pharmacy school. (i.e. P1- first year; P2 – second year, etc.)
- IPPE: “Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience” – These are introductory rotations you’ll experience from year one through year three.
- APPE: “Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience” – These are advanced rotations that occur in your fourth year.
- OSCE: “Objective Structured Clinical Examination” – This is an assessment based on direct observation of student performance to evaluate basic pharmacy clinical tasks, such as taking a patient history, writing a prescription, or advising a patient.
- MUSOP: “Marshall University School of Pharmacy”
- ACPE: “Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education” – The accrediting body for all national schools of pharmacy.
- APhA-ASP: “American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists,” one of the student organizations at the Marshall School of Pharmacy.
- SSHP: “Student Society of Health Systems Pharmacists,” a branch of the American Society of Health Systems Pharmacists
