FAQs

What is the purpose of a dual degree?

While dual degrees are common in the pharmacy education landscape, this is the first program to combine the PharmD and an MS in PGx creating a unique and specially trained set of practitioners. The combination of pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, genetics, pharmacogenomics, therapeutics and clinical PGx is the optimal and currently unique skillset that is the result of this dual degree program. It is expected that the dual degree-trained individual will be leaders in moving pharmacy-based pharmacogenomics forward in the profession, through PGx implementation and expansion of clinical practice.

What is the timeline for the dual degree?

This program will allow students to complete the PharmD degree as well as the MS in PGx degree within the same four year time frame as traditional PharmD students.   

How will students be able to complete both degrees within four years?

Dual degree students will take PGx courses in the summers between their P1 and P2 years and between their P2 and P3 years.  In the P2 spring, P3 fall and spring and P4 fall, dual degree students will take one PGx course per semester. In addition, PharmD coursework comprises some of the required PGx coursework.

As pharmacology and pharmacokinetics are integral to the PharmD curriculum, these two courses (which are required in the MS in PGx degree) will be satisfied by the PharmD curriculum.  Therefore, students must successfully complete the PharmD degree to be awarded the MS in PGx degree. 

See the curriculum below, courses in red are PGx courses and are indicated as on campus or online.  Approximately half of PGx coursework will occur in the online format. 

When do classes for summer semester begin?

The academic calendar can be found on the Registrar’s website (click here).

What will the application process look like?

First-year pharmacy students in the spring semester who are in good academic standing will be encouraged to apply. The application will consist of statements on readiness and interest in the program. A cumulative & science GPA of a 2.7 is preferred to be considered for the dual degree program, based on a 4.0 scale. There is no limit to the number of students that may be accepted into the dual degree program. Part of the application process will be the review of applicant’s undergraduate and pharmacy GPA. The Admissions Committee reserves the right to interview applicants.

Is a bachelor’s degree required for students interested in the PharmD/PGx Dual Degree Program?

A bachelor’s degree is not required for current pharmacy students who are interested in the PharmD/PGx Dual Degree Program. The Masters of Science in Pharmacogenomics will be awarded upon successful completion of the Doctor of Pharmacy degree.  If students are interested in only the Master of Science in Pharmacogenomics Program, a bachelor’s degree or higher in science or a science related field is required.