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2021-2022 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Pharmacy, Pharm.D.
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 Return to: Program Overview
ADMISSIONS
The goal of the Admissions Department is to recruit and matriculate the highest quality and most qualified students to accomplish the educational mission of the School of Pharmacy. The William Carey University School of Pharmacy incorporates a holistic approach to admissions and considers such factors as GPA, prior experience, completion of a bachelor’s degree or advanced education, and interview results in the admissions process. Applicants presenting with above average GPAs scores are more competitive.
- Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but not required
- PCAT is not required
- Preferred overall GPA ≥ 3.0 and science and math GPA ≥ 2.5
All applicants must submit a web-based application through PharmCAS (Pharmacy College Application Service), a centralized application service. Applications must be complete and verified by PharmCAS prior to being evaluated by the WCUSOP.
Academic Requirements for Admission
To be eligible for admission to the Doctor of Pharmacy program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Complete a minimum of 68 semester credit hours of pre-pharmacy study in an accredited college or university in the United States or Canada, or the equivalency of credits from a foreign college or university whose transcripts are evaluated by Josef Silny and Associates, World Educational Services, or AACRAO International Education Services.
- Have a grade of C (or its equivalent) or better in all prerequisite courses.
Applicants do not have to have all prerequisite coursework completed before applying for admissions; however, the applicant must have a plan to complete any remaining prerequisites by June 1of the year of enrollment, unless informed otherwise by the Admissions Office. All science laboratory courses must be completed in a live, in-person laboratory environment. No online or hybrid laboratory courses will fulfill the prerequisite laboratory requirement.
Prerequisite Courses
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Prerequisite Courses
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Required Credit Hours
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General Biology I & II with labs1
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8.0 Sem. Hrs.
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College Chemistry I & II with labs1
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8.0 Sem. Hrs.
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Organic Chemistry I & II with labs1
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8.0 Sem. Hrs.
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College Physics I with or without lab
(algebra-based course fulfills
this requirement)
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3.0 Sem. Hrs.
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Human Anatomy or A&P I1
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3.0-4.0 Sem. Hrs.
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Human Physiology or A&P II1
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3.0-4.0 Sem. Hrs.
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Economics (general, micro or macro)
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3.0 Sem. Hrs.
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English Composition I & II
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6.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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Calculus I
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3.0 Sem. Hrs. 3
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Public Speaking / Speech
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3.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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College Statistics
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3.0 Sem. Hrs. 4
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General Education
(includes humanities, history, business, computer science, fine arts or foreign language)
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9.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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Social Sciences
(includes psychology, sociology, political science, or anthropology)
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6.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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Total
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68.0 Sem. Hrs.5
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1Laboratory courses must be completed in a live, in-person laboratory environment
2 Similar coursework will be evaluated and may be deemed to fulfill the required semester credit hours.
3 The mathematics component must include a minimum of 3 semester hours of calculus.
4 The 3 hours of college statistics is required in addition to the mathematics requirement.
5 Prerequisite courses taken under quarter hour systems will be evaluated for equivalency (generally 1 semester hour credit = 0.75 quarter hour credit) and may be deemed to fulfill the required semester credit hours.
Applicants may not exclude any part of their college-level educational history. Any applicant who fails to report all institutions attended will forfeit his/her eligibility for admission to William Carey University School of Pharmacy, or may be dismissed from the program if the student has matriculated. Records and documents submitted for admission to PharmCAS or the William Carey University School of Pharmacy will not be returned.
Applicants meeting the minimum criteria will have their files evaluated. Due to the large number of candidates that apply for admissions, only the most qualified applicants will be invited for an interview. During the interview day, applicants will be given an introduction to the school and its curriculum, and provided information on student services and financial aid. Applicants will be interviewed by faculty, asked to provide a writing sample, take a preliminary knowledge assessment, and given a tour of the campus and the School’s facilities. Ample opportunities will exist to ask questions about the program, the University, and the local area. If there are any additional questions during the application process, please feel free to email pharmacyadmissions@wmcarey.edu.
Admissions to the Doctor of Pharmacy program is highly competitive. As the School of Pharmacy utilizes a “rolling” admissions process, priority is given to candidates who complete their application early.
WCUSOP Transfer and Advanced Standing Policy
Because WCUSOP’s didactic curriculum consists of highly integrated, blocked courses, requests for transfer of credits for coursework from another Doctor of Pharmacy program or academic institution will not be considered. In addition, WCUSOP does not award credit for coursework taken on a noncredit basis or for life or work experience.
HEALTH AND IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
Immunizations
The required immunizations for matriculation to the WCUSOP include documentation of hepatitis B series (or a positive titer), varicella immunization or immunity, two MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) or MMR titer, Polio, Tdap (Tetanus/ Diphtheria/Pertussis) and an annual influenza vaccine. Students are also required to have an annual PPD, a negative QuantiFERON-TB test, or negative Chest X-ray. Candidates failing to meet these requirements will not be allowed to participate in experiential rotations and or clerkships, or any course that requires direct patient care. Some experiential sites may have additional requirements. Students are required to submit current health records in order to register.
CPR Certification
All students must complete and maintain certification or re-certification of CPR for the Health Professional during their tenure at WCU. Students will be provided a CPR course during the first year of their matriculation at the WCUSOP. Students are responsible for providing evidence of current certification in their electronic portfolio.
Verification of Health Insurance
In accordance with the policy of William Carey University, all students are required to maintain health insurance. Students must provide verification of health insurance coverage at the beginning of each academic term in order to register for classes. Students may also be subject to random checks throughout the year and will be dis-enrolled from all didactic and experiential coursework for failure to maintain health insurance coverage. In the event a student misses time on a rotation due to the lack of health insurance coverage, all missed time must be made up or the course repeated based on APPE policy and graduation may be delayed.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS
Students accepted into the William Carey University School of Pharmacy must have evidence of a clear criminal background check (CBC) prior to matriculation. This is a mandatory requirement as part of the Mississippi state law, Section 43-13-11 of Mississippi Code of 1972. Students may be required to update their CBC periodically for experiential rotations. All costs associated with CBCs are the responsibility of the student.
After enrollment, any subsequent disciplinary action or legal action including but not limited to, arrest, charge, addiction, or impairment must be reported immediately to the Office of Student Services and will be reviewed by the Associate Dean of Curriculum and New Programs and the Director of Experiential Education. Failure to report any and all subsequent disciplinary actions, arrests, or impairment will constitute falsification of records and may result in disciplinary action. All costs associated with criminal background checks are the responsibility of the student.
DRUG TESTING
Drug Testing Policy
All students must provide evidence of a negative urine drug screen within one month of beginning any experiential coursework. Some rotation sites may also require a drug screen within 30 days prior to the start of the rotation and/or submit to random drug screenings. Refusal by a student to submit to drug testing will result in immediate dismissal from the WCUSOP. Any student who tests positive for illegal drugs will be remanded to the Office of Student Services and the Associate Dean. All costs associated with drug testing are the responsibility of the student.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS FOR MATRICULATION
Technical Standards for Programs in the School of Pharmacy (Admission and Progression)
Candidates for admission to and students enrolled in the Doctor of Pharmacy Program at William Carey University must demonstrate the following abilities and skills in areas of communication, intellectual abilities, behavioral/social attributes, observation, and motor skills in order to perform the essential functions for the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Reasonable accommodations for persons with prior documented disabilities will be considered on an individual basis. Students wishing to request accommodations for disabilities should contact the Director of Disability Support Services (see Disabilities Support Services in the Student Services section of the catalog).
Communication
Candidates and students must demonstrate evidence of effective written and oral communication skills in both the academic and experiential settings. Once enrolled, students must demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate with the public and other healthcare professionals in order to elicit and provide information required for optimal healthcare.
Intellectual Abilities
Candidates and students must demonstrate the ability to retrieve information and to measure, calculate, reason with, analyze, and synthesize it. These intellectual abilities are required to solve problems, an essential skill that graduates must possess. Candidates and students must be able to retrieve (electronically and manually), read, and understand medical literature. Completion of a degree program requires the student to be able to demonstrate mastery of these skills and the ability to use them together in a timely fashion when involved in problem solving and providing patient care as related to his or her practice setting.
Behavioral and Social Attributes
Candidates and students must exhibit the emotional health and stability required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, exercise of good judgment, and prompt completion of all academic and experiential responsibilities. The development of mature and effective relationships with colleagues, patients, and other members of the healthcare community are essential. The ability to function when faced with the challenges and uncertainties inherent in experiential settings and the ability to exhibit compassion, flexibility, adaptability, integrity, motivation, interpersonal skills, and concern for others are required.
Observation
Candidates and students must demonstrate sufficient capacity to observe and function in the lecture hall, laboratory, and experiential settings. Sensory skills to perform educational duties and obligations are required of students in all degree programs. In any situation where a candidate’s or student’s ability to observe or acquire information through sensory modalities is compromised, the candidate or student must demonstrate alternate means and/or abilities to acquire the essential information conveyed in this fashion.
Motor Skills
The ability to participate in the basic operational and procedural activities required in laboratory and experiential settings is essential. Students and candidates must have sufficient motor function to execute movements reasonably required to properly participate in the activities of a laboratory or an experiential rotation, with or without assistive devices. Candidates and students who cannot perform activities independently should minimally be able to understand and direct the methodology involved in such activities.
Writing and Computer Requirements
Students in the WCUSOP are expected to demonstrate communication proficiency in written and verbal skills. In addition, computer skills will be used throughout the program. Students are expected to integrate current online information into discussion forums, papers, and presentations. Students must utilize Microsoft Office in submitting papers and presentations.
Computer Technology and Skills Requirements
Technology is an essential and integral aspect of a web-enhanced curriculum. Students are required to have a laptop computer for classroom activities and taking examinations, as well as a stable connection to the Internet on a regular basis (including off campus), software to meet course requirements and adequate system capacity. As web-enhanced lectures may contain either/both audio and video components, students will need the capability to access audio through speakers and record through a microphone. Recommended specifications include:
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Feature
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Minimum Recommended
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Preferred
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Processor
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Intel Core I5 (Windows/Mac)
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Intel Core i7 or I9 (Windows/Mac)
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Memory
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4GB
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8GB
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Hard disk
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500 GB
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1 TB (1000 GB)
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Wireless
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Wireless capability
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Wireless capability
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Screen Resolution
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At least 1024x768
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At least 1024x768
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Operating system
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Windows 7/8.1/10
Mac OS 10.6 or Higher
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Windows 7/8.1/10
Mac OS 10.6 or Higher
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Software
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Microsoft Office (2013 or newer), Adobe Acrobat reader, Anti-Virus Software
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Microsoft Office (2013 or newer), Adobe Acrobat reader, Anti-Virus Software
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Service and Support: It is recommended to purchase a support and/or damage plan for your equipment. Due to liabilities and warranty restrictions, IT staff members do not perform hardware or software repair work on personally-owned equipment.
Transportation
All students must maintain reliable transportation. In addition to traveling to campus each day for class, a large portion of the pharmacy education experience entails clinical experiential education at sites located throughout Mississippi and the gulf coast region. While WCUSOP understands there are temporary transportation issues, such as a flat tire or automobile accident, the lack of reliable transportation on a consistent basis will not be a valid excuse for missed class time, assessments (exams, quizzes, etc.), or clinical experience. Grade penalties resulting from missed classes or experiential rotations will be enforced.
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Requirements
ADMISSIONS
The goal of the Admissions Department is to recruit and matriculate the highest quality and most qualified students to accomplish the educational mission of the School of Pharmacy. The William Carey University School of Pharmacy incorporates a holistic approach to admissions and considers such factors as GPA, prior experience, completion of a bachelor’s degree or advanced education, and interview results in the admissions process. Applicants presenting with above average GPAs scores are more competitive.
- Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but not required
- PCAT is not required
- Preferred overall GPA ≥ 3.0 and science and math GPA ≥ 2.5
All applicants must submit a web-based application through PharmCAS (Pharmacy College Application Service), a centralized application service. Applications must be complete and verified by PharmCAS prior to being evaluated by the WCUSOP.
Academic Requirements for Admission
To be eligible for admission to the Doctor of Pharmacy program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Complete a minimum of 68 semester credit hours of pre-pharmacy study from regionally accredited U.S. colleges or universtities or English-speaking Canadian colleges or universities, or the equivalency of credits from a foreign college or university whose transcripts are evaluated by Josef Silny and Associates, World Educational Services, or AACRAO International Education Services.
- Have a grade of C- (or its equivalent) or better in all prerequisite courses.
Applicants do not have to have all prerequisite coursework completed before applying for admissions; however, the applicant must have a plan to complete any remaining prerequisites by June 1 of the year of enrollment, unless informed otherwise by the Admissions Office. Dual enrollment precludes admission into the School of Pharmacy; all course work must be completed prior to the first day of class. All science laboratory courses must be completed in a live, in-person laboratory environment. No online or hybrid laboratory courses will fulfill the prerequisite laboratory requirement. Highly competitive applicants should have prerequisites completed within 7 years of the relevant application cycle. The admissions committee reserves the right to extend the period beyond 7 years on a case-by-case basis.
Prerequisite Courses
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Prerequisite Courses
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Required Credit Hours
|
|
General Biology I & II with labs1
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8.0 Sem. Hrs.
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General Chemistry I & II with labs1
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8.0 Sem. Hrs.
|
|
Organic Chemistry I & II with labs1
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8.0 Sem. Hrs.
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Physics I with or without lab
(algebra-based course fulfills this requirement)
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3.0 Sem. Hrs.
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Human Anatomy or A&P I1
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3.0-4.0 Sem. Hrs.
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Human Physiology or A&P II1
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3.0-4.0 Sem. Hrs.
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|
Economics (general, micro-, or macro-)
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3.0 Sem. Hrs.
|
|
English Composition I & II
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6.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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Calculus I
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3.0 Sem. Hrs. 3
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Public Speaking / Speech
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3.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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|
General Statistics
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3.0 Sem. Hrs. 4
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|
General Education
(includes humanities, history, business, computer science, fine arts or foreign language)
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9.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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Social Sciences
(includes psychology, sociology, political science, ethics, bioethics, or anthropology)
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6.0 Sem. Hrs. 2
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|
Total
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68.0 Sem. Hrs.5
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1Laboratory courses must be completed in a live, in-person laboratory environment
2 Similar coursework will be evaluated and may be deemed to fulfill the required semester credit hours.
3 The mathematics component must include a minimum of 3 semester hours of calculus.
4 The 3 hours of college statistics is required in addition to the mathematics requirement.
5 Prerequisite courses taken under quarter hour systems will be evaluated for equivalency (generally 1 semester hour credit = 0.75 quarter hour credit) and may be deemed to fulfill the required semester credit hours.
Applicants may not exclude any part of their college-level educational history. Any applicant who fails to report all institutions attended will forfeit his/her eligibility for admission to William Carey University School of Pharmacy, or may be dismissed from the program if the student has matriculated. Records and documents submitted for admission to PharmCAS or the William Carey University School of Pharmacy will not be returned.
Applicants meeting the minimum criteria will have their files evaluated. Due to the large number of candidates that apply for admissions, only the most qualified applicants will be invited for an interview. During the interview day, applicants will be given an introduction to the school and its curriculum, and provided information on student services and financial aid. Applicants will be interviewed by faculty, asked to provide a writing sample, take a preliminary knowledge assessment, and given a tour of the campus and the School’s facilities. Ample opportunities will exist to ask questions about the program, the University, and the local area. If there are any additional questions during the application process, please feel free to email pharmacyadmissions@wmcarey.edu.
Admissions to the Doctor of Pharmacy program is highly competitive. As the School of Pharmacy utilizes a “rolling” admissions process, priority is given to candidates who complete their application early.
WCUSOP Transfer and Advanced Standing Policy
Because WCUSOP’s didactic curriculum consists of highly integrated, blocked courses, requests for transfer of credits for coursework from another Doctor of Pharmacy program or academic institution will not be considered. In addition, WCUSOP does not award credit for coursework taken on a noncredit basis or for life or work experience.
Immunizations
The required immunizations for matriculation to the WCUSOP include documentation of hepatitis A and B series (or a positive titer), varicella immunization or immunity, two MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) or MMR titer, Polio, Tdap (Tetanus/ Diphtheria/Pertussis) and an annual influenza vaccine. Students are also required to have an annual PPD or negative Chest X-ray. Candidates failing to meet these requirements will not be allowed to participate in experiential rotations and or clerkships, or any course that requires direct patient care. Some experiential sites may have additional requirements. Students are required to submit current health records in order to register.
CPR Certification
All students must complete and maintain certification or re-certification of CPR for the Health Professional during their tenure at WCU. Students will be provided a CPR course during the first year of their matriculation at the WCUSOP. Students are responsible for providing evidence of current certification in their electronic portfolio.
Verification of Health Insurance
In accordance with the policy of William Carey University, all students are required to maintain health insurance. Students must provide verification of health insurance coverage at the beginning of each academic term in order to register for classes. Students may also be subject to random checks throughout the year and will be dis-enrolled from all didactic and experiential coursework for failure to maintain health insurance coverage. In the event a student misses time on a rotation due to the lack of health insurance coverage, all missed time must be made up or the course repeated based on APPE policy and graduation may be delayed.
Students accepted into the William Carey University School of Pharmacy must have evidence of a clear criminal background check (CBC) prior to matriculation. This is a mandatory requirement as part of the Mississippi state law, Section 43-13-11 of Mississippi Code of 1972. Students may be required to update their CBC periodically for experiential rotations. All costs associated with CBCs are the responsibility of the student.
After enrollment, any subsequent disciplinary action or legal action including but not limited to, arrest, charge, addiction, or impairment must be reported immediately to the Office of Student Services and will be reviewed by the Associate Dean of Curriculum and New Programs and the Director of Experiential Education. Failure to report any and all subsequent disciplinary actions, arrests, or impairment will constitute falsification of records and may result in disciplinary action. All costs associated with criminal background checks are the responsibility of the student.
Drug Testing Policy
All students must provide evidence of a negative urine drug screen within one month of beginning any experiential coursework. Some rotation sites may also require a drug screen within 30 days prior to the start of the rotation and/or submit to random drug screenings. Refusal by a student to submit to drug testing will result in immediate dismissal from the WCUSOP. Any student who tests positive for illegal drugs will be remanded to the Office of Student Services and the Associate Dean. All costs associated with drug testing are the responsibility of the student.
Technical Standards for Programs in the School of Pharmacy (Admission and Progression)
Candidates for admission to and students enrolled in the Doctor of Pharmacy Program at William Carey University must demonstrate the following abilities and skills in areas of communication, intellectual abilities, behavioral/social attributes, observation, and motor skills in order to perform the essential functions for the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Reasonable accommodations for persons with prior documented disabilities will be considered on an individual basis. Students wishing to request accommodations for disabilities should contact the Director of Disability Support Services (see Disabilities Support Services in the Student Services section of the catalog).
Communication
Candidates and students must demonstrate evidence of effective written and oral communication skills in both the academic and experiential settings. Once enrolled, students must demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate with the public and other healthcare professionals in order to elicit and provide information required for optimal healthcare.
Intellectual Abilities
Candidates and students must demonstrate the ability to retrieve information and to measure, calculate, reason with, analyze, and synthesize it. These intellectual abilities are required to solve problems, an essential skill that graduates must possess. Candidates and students must be able to retrieve (electronically and manually), read, and understand medical literature. Completion of a degree program requires the student to be able to demonstrate mastery of these skills and the ability to use them together in a timely fashion when involved in problem solving and providing patient care as related to his or her practice setting.
Behavioral and Social Attributes
Candidates and students must exhibit the emotional health and stability required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, exercise of good judgment, and prompt completion of all academic and experiential responsibilities. The development of mature and effective relationships with colleagues, patients, and other members of the healthcare community are essential. The ability to function when faced with the challenges and uncertainties inherent in experiential settings and the ability to exhibit compassion, flexibility, adaptability, integrity, motivation, interpersonal skills, and concern for others are required.
Observation
Candidates and students must demonstrate sufficient capacity to observe and function in the lecture hall, laboratory, and experiential settings. Sensory skills to perform educational duties and obligations are required of students in all degree programs. In any situation where a candidate’s or student’s ability to observe or acquire information through sensory modalities is compromised, the candidate or student must demonstrate alternate means and/or abilities to acquire the essential information conveyed in this fashion.
Motor Skills
The ability to participate in the basic operational and procedural activities required in laboratory and experiential settings is essential. Students and candidates must have sufficient motor function to execute movements reasonably required to properly participate in the activities of a laboratory or an experiential rotation, with or without assistive devices. Candidates and students who cannot perform activities independently should minimally be able to understand and direct the methodology involved in such activities.
Writing and Computer Requirements
Students in the WCUSOP are expected to demonstrate communication proficiency in written and verbal skills. In addition, computer skills will be used throughout the program. Students are expected to integrate current online information into discussion forums, papers, and presentations. Students must utilize Microsoft Office in submitting papers and presentations.
Computer Technology and Skills Requirements
Technology is an essential and integral aspect of a web-enhanced curriculum. Students are required to have a laptop computer or Microsoft Surface Pro tablet (except for the Surface Pro X, which is incompatible with our exam testing software) for classroom activities and taking examinations. You may use a PC or Mac laptop or a “2-in-1 style” laptop, as long as they utilize Microsoft Windows 10. The Surface Pro tablet (except for Surface Pro X) is the only approved tablet you will be able to use while in our program. The Surface Pro X and iPad tablets are not approved for use with our exam testing software.
The University provides Microsoft Office 365 Suite free of charge to all registered students.
All students must have a stable connection to the Internet on a regular basis (including off campus), software to meet course requirements and adequate system capacity. As web-enhanced lectures may contain either/both audio and video components, students will need the capability to access audio through speakers, and record through a webcam and microphone.
Recommended Specifications
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Feature
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Minimum Recommended
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Preferred
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Processor
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Intel Core I5 (Windows/Mac); Apple’s M1 chipset is not acceptable
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Intel Core i7 or I9 (Windows/Mac); Apple’s M1 chipset is not acceptable
|
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Memory
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4GB
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8GB
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Hard disk
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512 GB
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1 TB (1000 GB)
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Wireless
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Wireless capability
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Wireless capability
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|
Screen Resolution
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At least 1024x768
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At least 1024x768
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|
Operating system
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Windows 10 (Not Windows RT or 10S)
Mac OS 11.0 (Big Sur) or Higher
*NOTE: Chrome OS is not acceptable.
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Windows 10 (Not Windows RT or 10S)
Mac OS 11.0 (Big Sur) or Higher
*NOTE: Chrome OS is not acceptable.
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|
Webcam / Microphone
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Must have fully functioning camera, microphone, and speakers. No virtual cameras are allowed.
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Must have fully functioning camera, microphone, and speakers. No virtual cameras allowed.
|
|
Software
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Microsoft Office (Microsoft Office 365 is provided by the University), Adobe Acrobat reader, Anti-Virus Software
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Microsoft Office (Microsoft Office 365 is provided by the University), Adobe Acrobat reader, Anti-Virus Software
|
• Service & Support: It is recommended to purchase a support and/or damage plan for your equipment. We recommend a multi-year agreement for the best coverage. Due to liabilities and warranty restrictions, IT staff members do not perform hardware or software repair work on personally owned equipment.
• Anti-Virus Software: Anti-virus software should be installed on your personal computer, configured to automatically update, and scheduled to run regular scans.
• Productivity Software: Microsoft Office 365 is available to all students on up to five computers and/or up to five mobile devices. If you choose to purchase Office for your personal computer, select version 2016 or newer for Windows or 2011 or newer for Macs. Computers must have Adobe Acrobat Reader in order to take examinations in ExamSoft.
Transportation
All students must maintain reliable transportation. In addition to traveling to campus each day for class, a large portion of the pharmacy education experience entails clinical experiential education at sites located throughout Mississippi and the gulf coast region. While WCUSOP understands there are temporary transportation issues, such as a flat tire or automobile accident, the lack of reliable transportation on a consistent basis will not be a valid excuse for missed class time, assessments (exams, quizzes, etc.), or clinical experience. Grade penalties resulting from missed classes or experiential rotations will be enforced.
Curriculum
The professional pharmacy curriculum is intended to produce generalist pharmacists proficient in all professional and educational competencies as set forth in the WCUSOP’s “Educational Outcomes and Competencies (EOCs)” statements. The curriculum will educate and develop the necessary knowledge and skills based on sound basic and clinical science, professional skills, attitudes, and values in a student-centered, cooperative, active learning environment. Students will learn to integrate and apply these skills to the practice and advancement of the profession of pharmacy.
The basic outline of the curriculum is:
- A foundational sciences component in which the majority of the basic biomedical sciences, pharmaceutics, social and behavioral sciences, jurisprudence, integrated pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry, Pathophysiology and advanced pharmacotherapeutics, and electives are taught;
- The experiential curriculum, which includes the Introductory and Advanced Pharmacy Practice experiences, and Service Learning.
The Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum is designed to be successfully completed in 2 years and 10 months, and runs throughout the calendar year. The curriculum is designed to deliver a combination of faculty-delivered didactic lectures, student-centered active learning and problem-solving activities, and experiential educational activities that emphasize the achievement of the professional competencies and outcome expectations (EOCs) of the curriculum. Requirements for the PharmD degree for graduates in the program, include completion of a minimum of 146 credits, which include more than 1800 hours of experiential coursework. In addition, a student must maintain a cumulative grade point average 2.20 or better in order to progress and graduate.
Curricular and Academic Policies
Enrollment
Enrollment at WCUSOP is a privilege. WCUSOP reserves the right to dismiss a student at any time it is deemed necessary to safeguard standards of scholarship, conduct, and orderly operation of the institution, subject only to the policies and procedures of William Carey University, the School of Pharmacy, and relevant law.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees are approved each year by WCU Board of Trustees and may change annually without advanced individual notice to students and applicants.
Professionalism
Students are expected to adhere to the William Carey University School of Pharmacy Codes of Conduct, Ethics, and Professionalism, and to maintain a professional academic atmosphere at all times. The WCUSOP expects all students to project a professional image to patients, colleagues, and the community at large through their dress and appearance, and as such, students are required to adhere to the “Student Dress Code”. Conservativism and modesty in dress are key factors in projecting a professional image. Students will also be required to wear their white coats while on campus or anywhere necessary to conduct official SOP sanctioned business. William Carey University seeks to create an environment that encourages continued growth of moral and ethical values, which include personal honesty and mutual trust. The faculty and administration at the William Carey University School of Pharmacy places the highest value on academic integrity and regards any act of academic dishonesty as a serious offense. Academic dishonesty is considered unethical and in violation of William Carey University’s academic standards. If such an incident occurs, students, faculty, and/or staff are obligated to initiate appropriate action. Depending upon the seriousness of the offense, sanctions could include failure of the assignment, failure of the course, or could lead to suspension or dismissal from the University. Students who fail to report an actual or perceived violation of the University’s academic standards, will themselves be found in violation and subject to disciplinary sanctions. Additional information on the Ethics, Honor and Professionalism Code can be found in the William Carey University School of Pharmacy Student handbook.
Attendance Policy
Attendance in class is expected of all students. All classes and examinations will start at the regularly scheduled times, unless otherwise announced or approved by the course instructor or coordinator. Each student is responsible for all material covered during class whether or not the student is present. Students are reminded that, in accordance with course syllabi, graded in-class assignments may be used to compute course grades.
Course Grading Scale
WCUSOP has adopted a numerical scoring system where a 60% score is the minimum passing grade using a 10 point grading scale. All grades are rounded to the nearest whole number using standard rounding rules. Unless noted separately in the course syllabi, the following is WCUSOP’s grading scale and the quality points assigned to each letter grade:
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A (4.0 quality points)
|
=
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>89.50 or above
|
|
B (3.0 quality points)
|
=
|
79.50 to 89.49
|
|
C (2.0 quality points)
|
=
|
69.50 to 79.49
|
|
D (1.0 quality points)
|
=
|
59.50 to 69.49
|
|
F (0.0 quality points)
|
=
|
59.49 or below
|
Other possible grades include:
|
I
|
=
|
Incomplete: An incomplete will be assigned only when unavoidable circumstances prevent completion of the work of the course on schedule. When the work is completed satisfactorily, the “I” will be changed to the appropriate final course grade. All incompletes must be cleared by the end of the following trimester in which the incomplete was recorded or it will automatically become an “F.”
|
|
P/F
|
=
|
Pass/Fail
|
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Grades for all attempted coursework are calculated in the School of Pharmacy’s grade point average.
Good Academic Standing
At the end of each term of coursework, a student in good academic standing is defined as:
- Having passing grades in all required courses, electives, milestone exams, and other mandatory exercises
- Students must maintain a cumulative GPA for courses taken within the pharmacy degree program of greater than or equal to 2.20 to progress to the next term, progress to experiential rotations, and to graduate.
- Having behaved in accordance with high standards of professional and academic ethics and having no probationary sanctions imposed by the Ethics, Honor, and Professionalism (EHP) Board as set forth in the Student Rights and Responsibilities section of this Student Handbook.
Students not meeting any of the above requirements will be listed as not in good academic standing, placed on academic probation, and may be dismissed from the program.
Failure to Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress
A student who fails to maintain satisfactory academic progress as evidenced by being placed on not in good academic standing will only return to good academic standing upon completion of all requirements as set forth by the Academic Standing Committee (ASC), the Dean, the EHP Board, as well as meeting all requirements for being listed in good academic standing as described above.
Unsatisfactory Progress During the Didactic Curriculum
Any student who receives a grade of F in any didactic coursework (P1 or P2 year) may be automatically dismissed from WCUSOP if they fail the course again on the second attempt. The Academic Standings Committee will meet to discuss the student’s academic record and provide the Dean with a recommendation regarding the student’s future standing with WCUSOP. A student making an F in any coursework will be required to retake the course in the following academic year. Students which have been held for poor academic performance may be required to complete an alternate academic recovery plan as defined by the Dean or may be required to repeat coursework.
Unsatisfactory Progress during the Experiential Program
A student who fails an assigned rotation in the experiential program will have his or her performance evaluated by the ASC and the Dean. The Dean in collaboration with the Experiential Department and the Chair of Pharmacy Practice will determine the appropriate plan to satisfy the pharmacy practice experience requirements. Any student who fails an experiential rotation will be required to repeat the experiential rotation in accordance with the recommendations of Director of Experiential Education and the terms of the Academic Improvement Plan that may include any of the following:
- Repeating the entire Pharmacy Practice Experience that was failed;
- Other Academic Recovery plans as deemed appropriate by the Director of Experiential Education and Chair of Pharmacy Practice.
Additional tuition and fees will be required for any repeated experiential rotations or coursework and may delay graduation.
Graduation Requirements
Except as otherwise provided in these standards, in order to graduate from the School of Pharmacy with a PharmD degree and receive a diploma, a candidate for graduation must have received credit in all required courses, electives, and curricular activities, successfully completed the required hours of experiential course work, paid all tuition and/or fees, and have a cumulative GPA of ≥2.2. Students who achieve a 3.50 and above will be designated for honors.
Additional information about WCUSOP, its curriculum, the admission process, prerequisite courses, tuition and fees, financial aid, student life, and accreditation status are available at https://wmcarey.edu/school/pharmacy
Academic Calendar
School of Pharmacy Academic Master Calendars
Academic Calendar 2021-2022
Fall Term 2021 (PY1/T1 and PY2/T5, 11 weeks total)
July 1-2, 2021 Orientation (P1)
July 5, 2021 July 4 Holiday (P1/P2)
July 6, 2021 First day of classes: Fall term (P1/P2)
September 6, 2021 Labor Day
September 14, 2021 End of Fall term
September 15, 2021 Study Day
September 16-21, 2021 Final Exams
September 22-28, 2021 Fall / Intersession Break (P1/P2)
Winter Term 2021 (PY1/T2 and PY2/T6, 11 weeks total)
September 29, 2021 First day of classes: Winter term (P1/P2)
November 24-26, 2021 Thanksgiving Break
December 10, 2021 End of Winter term
December 13, 2021 Study Day
December 14-17, 2021 Final Exams
December 20-31, 2021 Christmas / Intersession Break
Spring Term 2022 (PY1/T3 and PY2/T7, 11 weeks total)
January 3, 2022 First day of classes: Spring term (P1/P2)
January 17, 2022 Martin Luther King Day
March 14, 2022 End of Spring term
March 15-18, 2022 Final Exams
March 21-25, 2022 Spring Break and Intersession Break (P1/P2)
Summer Term 2022 (PY1/T4, 10 weeks total and PY2/T8,
11 weeks total)
March 28, 2022 First day of classes: Summer term (P2)
March 28-April 29, 2022 IPPE-I (P1)
April 15, 2022 Easter Holiday (P2)
May 2-June 3, 2022 IPPE-II (P1)
May 30, 2022 Memorial Day
June 6-July 4, 2022 Summer Break and July 4th Holiday (P1)
June 7, 2022 End of Summer Term (P2)
June 8-10, 2022 Final Exams
June 13, 2022 Projected date for PCOA
June 14-24, 2022 Summer Break (P2)
Advanced Pharmacy Practice Schedule 2021-2022
(P3, Class of 2022)
Fall Term (PY3/T8, 12 weeks total):
June 28 – August 6, 2021 Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience I
August 9 – September 17, 2021 Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience II
September 20-22, 2021 APPE Forum and Career Fair
September 23-24, 2021 Fall Break
Winter Term (PY3/T9, 12 weeks total):
September 27 – November 5, 2021 Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience III
November 8 – December 17, 2021 Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience IV
December 20, 2021 – January 7, 2022 P3 Winter Break
Spring Term (PY3/T10, 12 weeks total):
January 10, 2022 – February 18, 2022 Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience V
February 21 – April 1, 2022 Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience VI
April 4-8, 2022 Intersession Break, P3
April 11 – 22, 2022 APPE Capstone and Milestones*
April 23, 2022 Graduation (proposed)*
*These dates are subject to change
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