Pharmacy (0-6 Program)
Western New England University's Pharmacy program is an ideal place for future pharmacists to excel. Through our 0-6 Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program model, qualifying high school seniors applying to the Pharmacy program are guaranteed a seat in our four-year PharmD program, provided they meet academic milestones during their first two years of preprofessional studies. Qualifying students are eligible to receive a bachelor's degree in Pharmacy Studies after four years of study and the PharmD degree after six years.
Why Choose Pharmacy?
There’s never been a more important time to start a career in Pharmacy. Western New England University will transform you into the innovative and compassionate pharmacist you’ve always dreamed of becoming.
If you aspire to be an expert in medicine, a community educator, and a leader in healthcare during critical times in public health, then Western New England University will help you achieve these goals and more.
Pharmacists play several crucial roles:
- Dispensing medications and administering vaccinations to patients;
- Consulting with other members of the healthcare team to recommend the most appropriate treatments for their patients; and
- Educating both patients and the community about best practices when it comes to health and wellness.
Pharmacists don’t just dispense prescriptions; they’re experts in medication, from common prescriptions all the way up to the newest drugs on the market. Pharmacists help inform patients about possible side effects, help customers select and provide counsel on the proper use of over-the-counter medications, and interact with physicians and health insurance companies on behalf of the patient.
Pharmacists Make a Real Impact Every Day.
Imagine this; you could play a role in:
- Administering flu shots and other vaccines to reduce spread of preventable illnesses
- Helping to diminish the opioid crisis
- Providing a child with chronic asthma with an inhaler so they can play at recess
- Assuring patients that their medications will not interact with each other so they can take them without fear
- Promoting responsible prescription adherence and persistence
Pharmacists work in a variety of settings including community pharmacies, hospitals, long term care organizations, private practice, pharmaceutical research, and in a variety of healthcare facilities, so you’ll have plenty of options geared toward your interests!
In times like these, pharmacists are needed more than ever, and if it’s your calling, there’s no better time to get started.
What Will You Study?
During your first two years of the Pharmacy program, you will be immersed in the study of biology to understand the basic structure and functioning of cells and organisms. You will also take courses in General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Anatomy and Physiology, as well as a selection of general education courses required before continuing into the professional program. The majority of Pharmacy courses are offered in Western New England University's newest academic building, the Center for the Sciences and Pharmacy, which features state-of-the-art laboratories and classrooms.
Progressing into the PharmD Program
Continuing into the PharmD Program after two years of undergraduate study will be a breeze. Students who successfully complete two years of preprofessional study in Pharmacy will be able to transition into the professional phase of their education, the PharmD, which entails an additional four years of study.
You will be living on the same campus you know and love, be taught by familiar professors, and be among classmates that you’ve known for the past two years.
Not only will you develop strong scientific foundations needed in the field, but you will also learn the technical, social, and administrative skills required of a healthcare leader, as well as instill in yourself a commitment to community service and lifelong learning. Functional learning tools and facilities, such as our model pharmacy and simulation manikin will give you the practice you need to feel confident in your abilities.
Progression requirements to transition into the PharmD program:
- Attain a minimum GPA of 3.10 following the completion of your first academic year.
- Submit a completed PharmCAS application, via www.pharmcas.org by the priority deadline of October 1 of your sophomore year.
- WNE Pharmacy students are not required to submit recommendations (skip this section of the PharmCAS application.)
- Transcripts from all schools attended, including WNE and community colleges, must be sent directly to PharmCAS. This should be done as early as possible (end of August-early September) to allow PharmCAS 2 to 4 weeks processing time.
- Complete a successful interview through the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. WNE Pharmacy students will be invited to participate in a preferred interview day program designed to expedite your transition into the PharmD program.
*PharmD enrollment deposits are waived for WNE Pharmacy students.
Faculty
You will be mentored by outstanding faculty who has studied at such institutions as University of Massachusetts, Amherst and UMass Medical School; Dartmouth; Kent State; Brown University; Columbia; Yale; University of Oregon; and the University of Texas at Austin. Our distinguished science faculty conducts fascinating research, yet outstanding classroom teaching is always each professor's top priority.
Campus Life
You'll have every opportunity to participate in all aspects of campus life with your peers, including senior year activities during your second year in the PharmD program.
Pharmacy students are encouraged to join our many clubs and organizations as well as varsity sports. You’ll also be able to live on campus for all six years, putting you at the center of the action.