Be Part of an Innovative Pharmacy Program

Pharmacy is an in demand, high paying profession. Regis University’s School of Pharmacy delivers comprehensive, advanced education and training in a contemporary, innovative environment, so that you are well-prepared to be a vital member of the health care system.

 

 

Learn more about the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree

Applicants must meet the following minimum standards.

  • Earned a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) with a minimum science and mathematics grade point average of 2.5 (on 4.0 scale)*.
  • Grade of "C" or better in prerequisites. Prerequisite course work must be completed prior to matriculation; however, course work may be in progress or planned at the time of application.
  • Eligibility for the program is pending the successful completion of a drug screening and a criminal background check. Review a complete list of Disqualifying Offenses.
  • Eligibility for the program is pending the successful completion of the Essential Functions Forms. Review a complete list of Essential Functions.
  • Demonstration of excellent written and oral communication skills in the admissions essay and interview process.
  • Submission of the PharmCAS application.
  • Submission of PCAT scores to PharmCAS. Regis requires a minimum composite percentile ranking of 30th percentile.
  • Three letters of recommendation submitted through the PharmCAS application.
  • Work experience is recommended, but not required.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with the pharmacy profession and its future.
  • Demonstrated evidence of potential for success in doctoral degree program.
  • Demonstrated evidence of potential success as a professional.
  • Demonstrated evidence of an orientation toward service.
  • Demonstrated willingness to work in teams and provide leadership.
  • If English is not your native/first language, you must meet the following language proficiency requirement:
    1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) - minimum score of 82 (24 Writing, 20 Speaking, 22 Reading, 16 Listening) on the Internet-based TOEFL.
    2. Regis University's TOEFL code is 4656.

*While a minimum GPA is required for admission, we expect that most competitive applicants for the Doctor of Pharmacy program will have much higher GPAs ranging from 3.0 to 3.6.

The School of Pharmacy does not offer an early assurance program for entrance into the Doctor of Pharmacy program for Regis University students or students from other universities or colleges. Regis University students, however, are afforded a guaranteed admissions interview provided they have completed at least three semesters of full-time study at Regis University and have maintained a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 in their prerequisite mathematics and life sciences courses. These students must also have achieved a score of 30% or greater on the PCAT.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Successful applicants will be required to complete the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy criminal background check to obtain a pharmacy intern license.

Here are the questions the State Board asks pharmacy interns on the Intern License Application.

  • Have you ever been convicted of, pled guilty to, pled nolo contendere to, or received a deferred judgment for a felony?
  • Have you ever been convicted of, plead guilty to, pled nolo contendere to, or received a deferred judgment for a misdemeanor (including but not limited to DUI or DWAI?
  • Have you ever been convicted of, pled guilty to, pled nolo contendere to, or received a deferred judgment for any offense pertaining to state or federal drug law?
  • Have you ever had any disciplinary action taken against your license or pending against you in any state?
  • Do you have any physical or mental condition which may impact your ability to practice pharmacy safely?
  • Do you have, or have you had, any malpractice judgments rendered against you?

For more information regarding Colorado Intern Licensing please refer to the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy website: www.dora.state.co.us

OUR TIMELINE

March 1, 2014: Deadline to complete the Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS application).

November 2013 through April 2014: Prior to acceptance, all qualified applicants will be required to interview on the Regis University campus. Interviews will be conducted from November 2013 through March 2014.

June 2014: Acceptance letters will be sent no later than June 2014. It is important to note that some applicants may be notified of their acceptance prior to June.

The acceptee’s response is to be received by the Office of Admissions no later than 10 business days after notification. A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required at the time of your acceptance, to guarantee a position in the program. The deposit will be applied directly to the fall semester tuition for all incoming students.

PHARMACY COLLEGE ADMISSIONS TEST (PCAT)

Regis University School of Pharmacy requires applicants to take the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT). Registration and exams dates are listed below. Information regarding the PCAT exam can be found at www.pcatweb.info.

PCAT Test Dates

Registration Deadline PCAT Test Dates
May 17, 2013 July 17, 18, 2013
July 5, 2013 September 3, 4, 16, 17, 18, 2013
November 7, 2013 January 7, 8, 2014

Alternate PCAT Test Dates

Registration Deadline Alternate PCAT Test Dates
October 21, 2013  October 28, 29, 30, 31, 2013*
October 21, 2013  November 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 2013*

*Registration for the alternate test dates will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, as availability or seating is limited and cannot be assured. For more information please visit www.pcatweb.info.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants to the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program must complete the PharmCAS application:

Initial screening of PharmCAS applications is performed by the Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions Office of Admissions. Screening is based on selection criteria designed by the School of Pharmacy faculty. Applications are ranked and forwarded to the School of Pharmacy Student Affairs Committee. Based on the results, applicants are invited for an interview with members of faculty and leaders in the pharmacy community. Since the number of qualified applicants exceeds available interview slots, the committee will select diversified student groups to interview.

Applicants are ranked for an interview according to the following criteria (in no particular order):

  • cumulative grade point average;
  • math and science grade point average;
  • completion of prerequisite courses;
  • Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT) examination scores (required);
  • letters of recommendation (required);
  • previously earned bachelor's degree or higher (not required);
  • community service (preferred, but not required); and
  • work experience (preferred, but not required).

 

The Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions Office of Admissions will compile a composite score based on PharmCAS and interview data. This data is reviewed by the School of Pharmacy Student Affairs Committee and applicants are selected for admission. The Office of Admissions will send an offer of admission to qualified applicants. Admission decisions are not based solely on final applicant rank. The committee selects a diverse student group from the interviewed applicant pool. The admission decisions of the Student Affairs Committee are final.

Applicants who have been selected for admission into the Doctor of Pharmacy program will receive either a conditional or final offer of admission. Offers of admission are sent until all program spaces are filled.

Conditional admission will be offered to applicants who are attending a post-secondary institution and whose final academic grades for prerequisite courses are not yet available. Applicants offered conditional admission are accepted into the program pending successful completion of prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or higher, maintaining grades consistent with the initial review and meeting the GPA requirements. Students must submit official transcripts to the Office of Admissions demonstrating that the conditional requirements have been met prior to the first day of regular classes.

Final admission will be given to applicants who have met all of the admission criteria and who have submitted all application documentation.

An alternate list may be maintained until the beginning of classes. If space becomes available, alternate list applicants will receive written notification and/or a phone call of an offer of admission. Alternate list applicants will still need to complete all admission requirements.

Applicants must reply to the Office of Admissions within 10 business days of receipt of the offer of admissions. A $500 non-refundable deposit is required upon acceptance. This may be submitted either by electronic transfer or check.

Successful completion of a criminal background check and drug screening is required prior to beginning the program.

Eligibility for the Doctor of Pharmacy program is pending the successful completion of the Essential Functions forms.

Students are required to be computer literate prior to entering the program. Necessary skills include proficiency in several computer applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

The Office of Admissions coordinates the communication between the School of Pharmacy and the applicants.

Regis University reserves the right to deny admission, continued enrollment, or re-enrollment to any applicant or student who would pose an unreasonable risk of harm to self or others, or any unreasonable risk of disruption to the academic or clinical processes of the School of Pharmacy, the Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions, or Regis University. Adherence to the "Code of Ethics for Pharmacists," as described by the American Pharmacist's Association is required for all students in the program.

The Office of Admissions is committed to the protection of personal information. Use of personal information is strictly limited to the appropriate handling of applications, recordkeeping, and research intended to further improve the admissions process and pharmacy education.

The applicant acknowledges that admission decisions are made by Regis University personnel in the exercise of discretion and professional judgment and are not subject to review or appeal. Materials in support of an application for admission become the property of Regis University and will not be provided or returned to an applicant.

All prerequisite courses (minimum of 68 semester hours) must be completed prior to matriculation into the School of Pharmacy. You may be admitted prior to completion of all prerequisites, contingent upon successful completion by the start of classes.

Natural Sciences and Mathematics

44 SH
General Biology and Lab I
4 SH
General Biology and Lab II
4 SH
General Chemistry and Lab I
5 SH
General Chemistry and Lab II
5 SH
Organic Chemistry and Lab I
5 SH
Organic Chemistry and Lab II
5 SH
Microbiology and Lab
4 SH
Calculus I
4 SH
Human Anatomy and Lab
4 SH
Human Physiology and Lab
4 SH

Written and Oral Communication

6 SH
English Composition
3 SH
Speech Communication
3 SH

Social Sciences

9 SH
Psychology
3 SH
Sociology
3 SH
Social Science Elective
3 SH

Other

9 SH
Economics
3 SH
Philosophy
3 SH
Religious Studies
3 SH

TOTAL PRE-PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

68 SH

Due to the dynamic nature of knowledge in the biological and chemical sciences, there is a seven year limit on those prerequisite courses. However, this time limit may be waived if the applicant has a prior bachelor’s degree or higher. Applicants with such a prior degree and who have completed the prerequisites will be reviewed on an individual basis.

Pharmacy credits obtained at another school or college of pharmacy are not eligible for transfer to the Regis University School of Pharmacy.

If you have questions about transfer of credit from another academic institution, please contact:
Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions
Office of Admissions and Student Operations
Andrea Neri
303.964.5526
pharmacy@regis.edu

Prerequisite Guides

Students may complete their pre-pharmacy course requirements at Regis University or at any regionally accredited college or university in the U.S. International graduates must submit an evaluation of foreign educational credentials from one of the agencies approved by Regis University.

If you are a pre-pharmacy student at Regis University, we’ve provided a suggested sequence for those who plan to complete the prerequisites in two years. Prerequisites may change, please consult your advisor to discuss your course schedule and view the latest prerequisite courses.
Regis Undergraduate Student Prerequisite Guide

If you plan to complete your prerequisites at one of the universities or colleges in Colorado, our Transfer Guides provide recommended courses to fulfill our prerequisites.
Transfer Guides

ADMISSION QUESTIONS

When will the next Pharm.D. class be admitted?
The next class will be admitted for fall 2014. The deadline for application submission is March 1, 2014.

How long is the Pharm.D. program?
The Pharm.D. program is a four-year professional program. A minimum of two years of prerequisite coursework is also required.

Do I need a bachelor's degree to apply to pharmacy school?
No, a prior degree is not required to apply to the Pharm.D. program. However, applicants are required to complete two years of pre-pharmacy course work prior to starting the program.

Will the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT) be required?
Yes, your official PCAT score should be submitted to PharmCAS as part of your online application.

Will I be required to interview at the University before I will be considered for admission?
Yes, prior to acceptance, qualified applicants will be required to interview on the Regis University campus. Interviews will be conducted from November 2013 through April 2014. Specific dates will be scheduled soon. Please see the Interview Process collection of FAQ questions and answers for more information.

What factors do you consider when reviewing applications for an invitation to the campus interview?
We look at a number of factors when evaluating applications including breadth of educational experience, Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT) score, prior professional and volunteer experience, prior degrees, cumulative grade point average, combined math and life science grade point average, letters of recommendation, and writing skills based on your application essay.

What factors do you consider when reviewing applicants for admission to the Pharm.D. program?
We take into consideration all of the materials submitted through PharmCAS and the results of the campus interview and on-site writing sample when evaluating qualified applicants.

Do you give admission preference to Regis University students?
The School of Pharmacy does not offer an early assurance program for entrance into the Pharm.D. program for Regis University students or students from other universities or colleges. Regis University students, however, are afforded a guaranteed admissions interview provided they have completed at least three semesters of full-time study at Regis and have maintained a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 in their prerequisite mathematics and life sciences courses.

Do you give admission preference to Colorado residents?
No, we seek to admit qualified candidates from around the country and throughout the world.

As a Jesuit institution, do you use “religion” as a criterion for admission?
Regis University is a pluralistic institution. People from all faith traditions are welcome and treated with respect and dignity. Religious preference is not a screening criterion.

PREREQUISITE/CURRICULUM QUESTIONS

Where can I complete my prerequisite pharmacy courses?
Students may complete their pre-pharmacy course requirements at Regis University or at any regionally accredited college or university in the U.S. International graduates must submit an evaluation of foreign educational credentials from one of the agencies approved by Regis University. See the Prerequisites tab on this page for additional information.

Can I take prerequisite classes at Regis before applying to the Pharm.D. program?
Yes. Contact the Regis College Office of Admissions for information. The pre-pharmacy program is open to any student admitted to the University.

What is the time limit on prerequisites?
Due to the dynamic nature of knowledge in the biological and chemical sciences, there is a seven year limit on those prerequisite courses. However, this time limit may be waived if the applicant has a prior bachelor’s degree or higher. Applicants with such a prior degree and who have completed the prerequisites will be reviewed on an individual basis.

When must prerequisite coursework be completed?
All prerequisite coursework must be completed before you begin the program. You may be admitted prior to completion of all prerequisites contingent upon successful completion by the start of classes.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING QUESTIONS

Where and when will I complete my pharmacy practice experiences?
Pharmacy practice experiences will be incorporated throughout the pharmacy curriculum. Students will spend time during the first three years participating in introductory pharmacy practice experiences (IPPEs) and their entire fourth year will be devoted to advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs).

Introductory pharmacy practice experiences (IPPEs) will include various real practice experiences in community, institutional and other healthcare settings.

Advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs) will be primarily direct patient care experiences that build on the introductory experiences.

How do I get to my pharmacy practice experiences?
Because experiential learning sites are off-campus, students will likely need access to a car for transportation to and from the pharmacy practice experiences. Students may also choose various forms of public transportation to pharmacy practice experiences outside of the immediate Denver area. Any transportation expenses will be at an additional expense to the student.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Why choose Regis University School of Pharmacy?
The Regis University School of Pharmacy environment is lively, contemporary and innovative. The curriculum builds strong foundational knowledge of pharmacotherapy while engaging students and faculty in discussions around application to patient care in pharmacy practice. The small class size allows us to build a community of learners with individual faculty mentoring.

What degree will be offered?
Students will graduate with a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree.  

Can the Pharm.D. program be completed on a part-time basis?
No, the Pharm.D. program is for students who are enrolled full-time.

What will the tuition be for Pharm.D. students?
Tuition information can be found here.

Are there any scholarship opportunities?
Yes. Upon acceptance to the school, a committee of faculty will review each accepted applicant and award ten $25,000 scholarships. The monies will be divided over eight semesters. There will be more opportunities to apply for scholarships awarded to current students. Find out more about these opportunities here.

Is University housing available for pre-pharmacy and Pharm.D. students?
Yes, Regis University's Office of Residence Life, Housing and Event Services manages the on-campus student housing facilities. Learn more about Student Housing options.

Can I work while in the program?
Working in a pharmacy or other healthcare fields can be a valuable component of your education. Initially however, students are encouraged to limit their outside work due to the academic rigor of the program. Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to work while in school is up to each individual student.

How do students pay for the program?
We appreciate that pharmacy school is a significant financial investment. Students typically pay for tuition and living expenses through various sources including personal resources, scholarships, and student loans. Once admitted to the program, you will have a financial aid counselor available to work with you on securing loans. Go to Office of Financial Aid for additional information.

How can I get more information?
Our admissions counselors are dedicated to helping you through the admissions process and answering questions you may have. Please feel free to call our office at 303.458.4344, email or request information.

THE INTERVIEW PROCESS

How will I know when/if to attend an interview day event?
Following the submission of a complete application through PharmCAS, selected applicants will receive an email interview invitation. The invitation will outline directions to Regis University, parking and instructions for the interview day. Adult family members are also invited to the interview day where they will enjoy separate programming from the applicant.

What will the interview day consist of?
The interview day consists of the following:

  • Registration, instructions and a light breakfast. School of Pharmacy faculty and current Pharmacy students will be present to welcome you.
  • Welcome Session
  • Tour of the campus
  • Writing exercise
  • Multiple mini-interviews
  • Lunch with faculty, preceptors and current pharmacy students
  • Introduction to Regis University and the School of Pharmacy
  • Interactive Team-based learning activity  

Guests of candidates are welcome and will have the opportunity to tour campus with the School of Pharmacy Dean, followed by information sessions with student service organizations (financial aid, service learning, housing etc.). The guest program is an excellent opportunity for family and friends to learn more about the School of Pharmacy on a personal level.

What are Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs)?
Multiple mini interviews (MMIs) are a series of short, structured conversations each involving a specific topic. This interview method was developed at McMaster University and has been adopted as the interview method for a growing number of international and U.S. medical, dental and physical therapy schools. The Regis University School of Pharmacy has adopted this method because it provides a more reliable assessment of the applicant characteristics and eliminates the possibility of misrepresentation due to a poor applicant performance in a one time - one interviewer event.

This method of interviewing increases the opportunity for applicants to interact with a variety of people over a number of topics. Topics include ethics, leadership, communication, creative thinking, cultural awareness, stress management, compassion, empathy and cognitive moral development. Knowledge of pharmacy is not required for these interviews.

During the MMI applicants will be assigned to a private and confidential interview room. Interviewers will move between applicant rooms. Each applicant will meet with nine interviewers. At the start of each session, the interviewer will enter the room, introduce themselves and provide the applicant with the question or scenario. The applicant will be given two minutes to read the question or a scenario and prepare for the interview. The interviewer will reenter the room and begin a conversation about what the applicant has read. The interview will last for six minutes and then the interviewer will proceed to the next station.

The interviewers have undergone training in the interview and assessment process. They have been recruited from the School of Pharmacy faculty, Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions faculty and pharmacist preceptors. The School of Pharmacy is dedicated to quality assurance and will perform an annual review of the MMIs to assure reliability of the process. To help us in this process we ask that applicants and interviewers complete a short survey at the end of the interview day.

Acknowledgements: McMaster University, University of Saskatchewan, and University of Calgary.

What is the writing exercise?
This exercise is modeled after the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) writing sample. Applicants will be asked to review several topic statements and then select one for which they will formulate a reply. The reply is in the form of a coherent essay that addresses the topic through three specific writing tasks.

ACCREDITATION DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

What is the accrediting body for the RHCHP School of Pharmacy's Doctor of Pharmacy program? What is entailed in the accreditation process?
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) accredits Doctor of Pharmacy programs offered by Colleges and Schools of Pharmacy in the United States and selected non-US sites. For a Doctor of Pharmacy program offered by a new College or School of Pharmacy, ACPE accreditation generally involves three steps: Precandidate accreditation status, Candidate accreditation status, and Full accreditation status. Precandidate accreditation status denotes a developmental program that is expected to mature in accord with stated plans and within a defined time period. Precandidate accreditation status is awarded to a new program of a College or School of Pharmacy that has not yet enrolled students in the professional program and authorizes the School to admit its first class. Candidate accreditation status is awarded to a Doctor of Pharmacy program that has students enrolled but has not yet had a graduating class. Full accreditation status is awarded to a program that has met all ACPE standards for accreditation and has graduated its first class. Graduates of a class designated as having Candidate accreditation status have the same rights and privileges of those graduates from a fully accredited program. ACPE conveys its decisions to the various boards of pharmacy and makes recommendations in accord with its decisions. It should be noted, however, that decisions concerning eligibility for licensure by examination or reciprocity reside with the respective state boards of pharmacy in accordance with their state statutes and administrative rules.

The Doctor of Pharmacy program of the Regis University School of Pharmacy was awarded continued Candidate accreditation status during the June 20-24, 2012 meeting of the ACPE Board of Directors based upon an on-site evaluation conducted March 27-28, 2012, and discussion with the University and School officials. If the program continues to develop as planned, full accreditation of the Doctor of Pharmacy program will be considered by the Board following the graduation of students from the program.

The Regis University School of Pharmacy graduate its first Doctor of Pharmacy class in May 2013.

Regis University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.
Commission URL: http://www.ncahlc.org/
Commission Phone: 312.263.0456

For further information about the accreditation process visit http://www.acpe-accredit.org/students/default.asp or send an inquiry to:
ACPE
135 N LaSalle St.
Suite 4100
Chicago, Il 60603

What is the accreditation timeline?

  • March 2008 - Submit Precandidate application to ACPE (Application submitted March 12, 2008)
  • June 2008 - ACPE decision regarding authorization of an on-site evaluation for fall 2008 (On-site evaluation granted at the June 18-22, 2008 ACPE Board meeting)
  • Fall 2008 - ACPE initial on-site evaluation to assess readiness for Precandidate status (On-site evaluation on November 5-7, 2008)
  • Spring 2009 – ACPE on-site evaluation to assess readiness for Precandidate status (On-site evaluation on April 23-24, 2009)
  • March 2, 2009 - Application deadline for students enrolling in the first class for fall 2009 (Applications completed for fall 2009 class)
  • June 2009 - ACPE considers Precandidate application and on-site evaluation for a decision regarding Precandidate accreditation status. Precandidate status is a one year designation. (Precandidate status granted at the June 24-28, 2009 ACPE Board meeting)
  • Fall 2009 - First class begins pharmacy coursework
  • Spring 2010 - ACPE on-site evaluation to assess readiness for Candidate status(On-site evaluation on April 21-23, 2010)
  • June 2010 - ACPE decision regarding granting of Candidate accreditation status. Candidate status is a two year designation. (Candidate status was granted at the June 23-27, 2010 ACPE Board Meeting.)
  • April 2011 - Interim report to ACPE for review and consideration at the June 2011 ACPE Board meeting
  • June 2011 - ACPE evaluation of the interim report and continuation of Candidate accreditation status
  • Academic Year 2011-2012 - Focused on-site evaluation to assess continuation of Candidate accreditation status
  • Spring 2013 - ACPE on-site evaluation prior to assess readiness for Full Accreditation status
  • Spring 2013 - First class of students graduates
  • June 2013 - ACPE decision regarding granting of Full Accreditation status