Regis University School of Pharmacy Graduates Achieve Superior NAPLEX Pass Rates, Exceeding National Averages
Team-Based Learning Model and Integrated Curriculum Drive Outstanding Student Outcomes
Regis University's Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions School of Pharmacy continues to demonstrate academic excellence with its 2024 graduates achieving an 80% first-time pass rate on the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX), significantly outperforming both the national average of 77.5% and Colorado's state average of 72.3%. The superior performance reflects the school's commitment to innovative education through its Team-Based Learning (TBL) model and integrated curriculum design, which have proven effective in preparing graduates for professional practice and licensure success.
"Our students' exceptional NAPLEX performance is a direct result of our comprehensive approach to pharmacy education," said Samit Shah, Dean of Regis University’s School of Pharmacy. Shah continues, “The Team-Based Learning model ensures our students develop both the clinical knowledge and collaborative skills essential for modern pharmacy practice."
Beyond licensure success, Regis pharmacy graduates demonstrate strong career readiness with an 88% residency match rate in 2024, well above the national average of 81%. This achievement underscores the program's effectiveness in preparing students for advanced training and specialized practice areas.
The program's success has generated significant student interest, with enrollment growing 25% over the past two years. This growth reflects increasing recognition of the program's quality and the strong career outcomes achieved by graduates.
Regis University distinguishes itself by offering competitive dual-degree programs that provide students with specialized expertise beyond traditional pharmacy education. Students can pursue a Master's in Drug Development within the pharmacy program or combine their pharmacy studies with a Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Health Services Administration or a Master of Science in Health Informatics. The integrated curriculum weaves together pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacy practice, preparing students to translate scientific understanding into effective patient care. This holistic approach prepares graduates to excel in diverse career paths and adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape.
Students complete experiential rotations at diverse practice sites tailored to their learning needs and dual degrees or certificates. Rotations are available locally in the Denver metro area, nationally and internationally.
Options include specialized clinical experiences, national application-based rotations at the FDA and CDC, government sites at Federal Correctional Complex facilities and Indian Health Services, compounding and independent pharmacies, industry and research opportunities, and faculty-precepted sites. All experiences operate under the accredited School of Pharmacy's experiential program.
“Our students benefit from an integrated curriculum that emphasizes real-world application and collaborative problem-solving,” said Bianca Calderon, Associate Dean of Interprofessional Education. “Through Team-Based Learning and rich interprofessional and experiential experiences, students engage with peers from nursing, medicine, physical therapy, and other health professions, mirroring the collaborative teamwork they will encounter in professional practice.”
The NAPLEX results, published by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, reflect examination performance by graduates from 2024. Regis University's consistent performance above national benchmarks demonstrates the program's sustained commitment to educational excellence.