BS/PharmD Pathway

The BS/PharmD Pathway offers an accelerated route to earning both a Bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) in just seven years, instead of the traditional eight.
Students begin their undergraduate education with a focus in Biology, Chemistry, or Pharmaceutical Sciences at one of our partner institutions. During the first three years, students complete their general education requirements, pre-pharmacy prerequisites, and major-specific coursework.
In the third year (depending on individual progress and eligibility), students may apply to the Howard University College of Pharmacy PharmD program. Upon admission, students transition into the professional phase of their education and are on track to earn both degrees in a total of seven years.
Check out our Partner Schools:
- Bennet College
- Cheyney University
- Fayetteville State University
- Fort Valley University
- John C. Smith University
- North Carolina Central University
- Virginia State University
- Lincoln University*
- Alabama A&M University
- CUNY Lehman College
- CUNY Brooklyn College
- Tuskegee University*
- Kean University
- Dominican University
- Eastern University
- Howard University
- Limestone University
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
*Indicates that they are a 4+4 partner
Issuance of Dual Degree
Students enrolled in the BS/PharmD Pathway will be awarded their undergraduate degree by their home institution after successfully completing the first year (P1) of the PharmD program. Many partner institutions designate specific P1 courses to fulfill final undergraduate degree requirements, so it's important to consult with your program director for details.
To earn the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, students must continue on and successfully complete all remaining PharmD program requirements at Howard University College of Pharmacy.
Curriculum
Students in this pathway complete their first three years following the required courses at their home institutions. Then head to Howard University College of Pharmacy (HUCOP) to complete the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. To complete their undergraduate degree, the student's senior year is replaced with their P1 year at HUCOP.
Our curriculum equips students with essential knowledge in:
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Pharmaceutical Math
- Physical Pharmacy
- Drug Delivery and Dosage Forms
- Biopharmaceuticals
- Pharmacoepidemiology
- Dispensing Techniques
- Pharmacy Jurisprudence (Law)
- Contemporary Pharmacy Practice
- U.S. Healthcare Systems
- Drugs and Society
- Pharmacy Ethics
How to Apply
To be eligible for admission to this pathway, you must complete all requirements from your home institution and be on track in one of the following majors; Biology, Chemistry, or Pharmaceutical Sciences. During the third year (depending on individual progress and eligibility) of your program, students may apply to the Howard University College of Pharmacy PharmD program, using the PharmCAS application.
Interviews
If student's application meets minimum requirements, an interview invitation with be sent out. Our interviews are held on Saturday's from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm.
During the interview, applicants will be assessed on the following technical standards:
- Communication
- Observation
- Professional Conduct
- Analysis & Synthesis
You’ll also:
- Participate in a student panel Q&A
- Go on a college tour
- Take an on-site algebra-based math test
FAQs
What are the required pre-requisites?
Click here to view full list of pre-requisites.
*Please check in with your home institution for any additional requirements.
What scholarship and financial aid resources are available for students?
For more information on financial aid and scholarships at Howard University, please visit the Financial Aid Support Page.
Will I still receive my undergraduate degree?
Yes! Upon successful completion of the P1 year, the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at Howard University College of Pharmacy will sign the required documentation confirming the student’s progress. The student must then submit this documentation to their home institution and complete any additional paperwork needed to participate in graduation and commencement activities in order to receive their undergraduate degree.