WCU’s PharmD Q&A: Our Guide to a Doctor of Pharmacy Degree and Career
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Career
Healthcare
Hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy
Our PharmD program blends in-person and online learning, providing flexibility as you earn your degree in less than three years.
33 Months
Obtain your PharmD degree in as little as 33 months through our accelerated hybrid program1
Competitive Tuition
Our competitive tuition helps put your degree within reach
Innovative Curriculum
Learn using tools such as VR headsets that let you tend your own virtual pharmacy
Reasons to Choose WCU
Watch lectures online on your own schedule with assignments and deadlines to keep you on track
Visit our Los Angeles campus one week per trimester to practice pharmaceutical compounding and other hands-on skills
Collaborate with students in other health disciplines to develop interprofessional skills
Participate in simulation activities at our vibrant Center for Graduate Studies campus in Los Angeles
Why Pursue a PharmD Degree at WCU?
WCU is one of the first pharmacy schools in the nation to launch an accelerated hybrid curriculum! Earn your degree in as little as 33 months — that’s less than three years.
WCU’s Doctor of Pharmacy program helps prepare you for the opportunities and challenges of today’s pharmacy field through a combination of classroom learning, in-person clinical practice, and community outreach activities, such as wellness fairs and immunization clinics. Study online while completing one week per trimester of hands-on practice at our Center for Graduate Studies campus in the heart of Los Angeles.
From online learning tools to practice time at your own virtual pharmacy, our goal is to help develop you into a skilled pharmacist capable of practicing in diverse settings, from research labs to community drug stores. WCU’s Doctor of Pharmacy program ranks #5 for NAPLEX pass rates in the state. Graduates of the program are prepared to succeed in the industry.
Explore the PharmD program at WCU!
Program Details
Program Pace
Hybrid Online and In-Person
144 Credits
33 Months
8 Trimesters
Curriculum
Accelerated Hybrid Curriculum
| Course Number | Course Name | Total Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Number | Name | Hours |
| PHRM 601L | Longitudinal Skills Lab I | 1 |
| PHRM 602L | Longitudinal Skills Lab II | 1 |
| PHRM 603 | Pharmaceutics I | 3 |
| PHRM 604 | Pharmaceutics II | 3 |
| PHRM 605 | Biosystems | 4 |
| PHRM 607 | Pharmacy Practice Foundations I | 4 |
| PHRM 608 | Pharmacy Practice Foundations II | 4 |
| PHRM 609 | Calculations | 2 |
| PHRM 610 | Principles of Drug Action I | 4 |
| PHRM 611 | Biostatistics and Drug Literature Evaluation | 2 |
| PHRM 612 | Principles of Drug Action II | 4 |
| PHRM 679 | IPC Fundamental | 2 |
| PHRM 689 | Professional and Interprofessional Development I | 1 |
| PHRM 690 | Professional and Interprofessional Development II | 1 |
| PHRM 699 | IPPE-1 Community Practice | 2 |
| PHRM 701L | Longitudinal Skills Lab III | 1 |
| PHRM 702L | Longitudinal Skills Lab IV | 1 |
| PHRM 703 | Pharmacokinetics | 4 |
| PHRM 704 | US Healthcare and Public Health | 3 |
| PHRM 705 | Institutional Pharmacy Practice | 2 |
| PHRM 706 | Pharmacogenomics & Biotechnology | 3 |
| PHRM 707 | IPC I | 4 |
| PHRM 708 | IPC III | 4 |
| PHRM 709 | IPC II | 4 |
| PHRM 710 | IPC IV | 4 |
| PHRM 779 | IPC Supplemental I | 2 |
| PHRM 789 | Professional and Interprofessional Development III | 1 |
| PHRM 790 | Professional and Interprofessional Development IV | 1 |
| PHRM 799 | IPPE-2 institutional Practice | 2 |
| PHRM 801L | Longitudinal Skills Lab V | 2 |
| PHRM 802L | Capstone Skills Lab | 2 |
| PHRM 803 | Pharmacy Practice Management | 2 |
| PHRM 804 | Pharmacy Law & Ethics | 2 |
| PHRM 805 | Pharmacoeconomics & Outcomes Science | 2 |
| PHRM 806 | IPC VII | 4 |
| PHRM 807 | IPC V | 4 |
| PHRM 808 | IPC VIII | 4 |
| PHRM 809 | IPC VI | 4 |
| PHRM 879 | IPC Supplemental II | 2 |
| PHRM 889 | Professional and Interprofessional Development V | 1 |
| PHRM 890 | Professional and Interprofessional Development VI | 1 |
| PHRM 899 | IPPE-3 Selective Elective | 2 |
| PHRM 900 | Professional Electives | 4 |
| PHRM 991 | APPE – Acute Care | 5 |
| PHRM 992 | APPE – Hospital Practice | 5 |
| PHRM 993 | APPE – Community Practice | 5 |
| PHRM 994 | APPE – Ambulatory Care Practice | 5 |
| PHRM 995 | APPE – Elective I | 5 |
| PHRM 996 | APPE – Elective II | 5 |
| PHRM 997 | Board Preparation I | 2 |
| PHRM 998 | Board Preparation II | 1 |
| PHRM 999 | Board Preparation III | 1 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 144 | |
*Professional electives include PHRM 901, PHRM 902, PHRM 903, PHRM 904, PHRM 905, PHRM 906, PHRM 907, PHRM 908, PHRM 909, PHRM 910, PHRM 911, PHRM 912, PHRM 913, PHRM 914, PHRM 915, PHRM 916, PHRM 917, PHRM 918, PHRM 919, PHRM 920, PHRM 921, PHRM 922, PHRM 923, PHRM 924, PHRM 925, PHRM 926, PHRM 927, PHRM 928, PHRM 929, PHRM 930, PHRM 931, PHRM 933, PHRM 934, PHRM 935, PHRM 936, PHRM 937, PHRM 938, PHRM 939, PHRM 940, PHRM 941, PHRM 942, PHRM 943, PHRM 944, PHRM 945, PHRM 946, PHRM 947, PHRM 948, PHRM 949, PHRM 950
Graduation Requirements
To fulfill requirements for graduation, beyond successful completion of coursework, all students are required to successfully complete all programmatic co-curricular and non-credit requirements (e.g., outreach activities, course reflections, PCOA, up-to-date e-Portfolio, Board Preparation exams). In the event of an excused or unexcused absence, students are required to contact the course or event coordinator to determine how missed co-curricular activities will be made up. The format and completion date of any missed co-curricular activity (e.g., project work, evaluations, and assignments) is at the discretion of the course or event coordinator. Failure to successfully complete any required co-curricular work may compromise a student’s ability to graduate.
Pharmacy Curriculum – On ground
Integrated Patient Care (IPC) courses are designed as an integrated course drawing from pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and therapeutics concepts.
Explanation of Variable Credits
In the second and third professional year of the curriculum, students are divided into two groups each semester. Half the cohort is engaged in Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPE) and the other half will be engaged in Interprofessional Patient Simulation Exercises (IPE). Also, from the Fall semester of the second year students start their professional elective courses, and are required to complete a total of 6 semester units of electives by the end of the third professional year. These factors will result in variable credit units each semester during the second and third year of the curriculum.
*Please note that the curriculum of the program is subject to change. Students should refer to the program handbook and/or syllabus for updated information.
| Course Number | Course Name | Total Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Number | Name | Hours |
| PHAR 501 | Co-Curricular Experience I | 0 |
| PHAR 502 | Co-Curricular Experience II | 0 |
| PHAR 503 | Co-Curricular Experience III | 0 |
| PHAR 601L | Longitudinal Skills Lab I | 1 |
| PHAR 602L | Longitudinal Skills Lab II | 1 |
| PHAR 635 | Pharmaceutics I | 3 |
| PHAR 636 | Pharmaceutics II | 3 |
| PHAR 637 | Biosystems I | 4 |
| PHAR 638 | Biosystems II | 4 |
| PHAR 639 | Pharmacy Practice Foundations I | 5 |
| PHAR 640 | Pharmacy Practice Foundations II | 4 |
| PHAR 641 | Evidence Based Practice | 3 |
| PHAR 642 | Principles of Drug Action | 4 |
| PHAR 699A | IPPE I- Community Practice | 3 |
| PHAR 701L | Longitudinal Skills Lab III | 1 |
| PHAR 702L | Longitudinal Skills Lab IV | 1 |
| PHAR 735 | IPC Cardiopulmonary and Renal I | 4 |
| PHAR 736 | U.S. Healthcare and Public Health | 3 |
| PHAR 737 | IPC Cardiopulmonary and Renal II | 4 |
| PHAR 738 | Pharmacogenomics and Biotechnology | 2 |
| PHAR 739 | Pharmacokinetics | 4 |
| PHAR 740 | IPC Cardiopulmonary and Renal III | 3 |
| PHAR 741 | Institutional Pharmacy Practice | 3 |
| PHAR 742 | IPC Endocrine | 4 |
| PHAR 744 | IPC GI Nutrition | 3 |
| PHAR 798A, B and C | Interprofessional Education (Simulation) I | 1 |
| PHAR 799A | IPPE II – Institutional Practice | 3 |
| PHAR 801L | Longitudinal Skills Lab V | 1 |
| PHAR 802L | Capstone Skills Lab | 2 |
| PHAR 835 | IPC Neurology/Psychiatry | 4 |
| PHAR 836 | Pharmoeconomics & Outcomes Science | 2 |
| PHAR 837 | IPC Infectious Diseases I | 3 |
| PHAR 838 | Pharmacy Law & Ethics | 2 |
| PHAR 839 | IPC Infectious Diseases II | 3 |
| PHAR 840 | IPC Immunologic Conditions and Special Populations | 4 |
| PHAR 841 | Pharmacy Practice Management | 2 |
| PHAR 842 | IPC Hematology/Oncology | 4 |
| PHAR 898A | Interprofessional Education (Simulation) II | 1 |
| PHAR 899A | IPPE III – Selective Elective | 3 |
| PHAR 900 | Professional Electives* | 6 |
| PHAR 990 | Independent Studies: A Course for Self-Directed Learning | 0 |
| PHAR 991 | APPE – Acute Care Pharmacy Practice | 6 |
| PHAR 992 | APPE – Hospital Pharmacy Practice | 6 |
| PHAR 993 | APPE – Community Pharmacy Practice | 6 |
| PHAR 994 | APPE – Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Practice | 6 |
| PHAR 995 | APPE Elective I | 6 |
| PHAR 996 | APPE Elective II | 6 |
| PHAR 997 | Pharmacy Board Preparation I | 0 |
| PHAR 998 | Pharmacy Board Preparation II | 0 |
| PHAR 999 | Pharmacy Board Preparation III | 0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 144 | |
* Professional electives include PHAR 901, PHAR 902, PHAR 903, PHAR 904, PHAR 905, PHAR 910, PHAR 911, PHAR 915, PHAR 918,PHAR 921,PHAR 922, PHAR 923,PHAR 924, PHAR 928, PHAR 931, PHAR 934, PHAR 937, PHAR 938,PHAR 939,PHAR 940, PHAR 941, PHAR 942, PHAR 943, PHAR 944, PHAR 945, PHAR 946,PHAR 947, PHAR 948, PHAR 949, PHAR 950
Tuition & Financial Aid
How Much Does the Doctor of Pharmacy Program Cost?
To help make your degree a reality, WCU offers competitive tuition rates compared to similar PharmD programs. We aim to be transparent about tuition and fees. For a complete breakdown of program our PharmD program costs, please see the table below.
Additionally, we offer several financial aid options, including scholarships for our PharmD students. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.
Doctor of Pharmacy - Accelerated Hybrid PharmD*
| 8 Month Academic Year | ||
| with parents | off campus | |
| Food & Housing | $3,552 | $11,840 |
| Transportation | $2,456 | $2,456 |
| Personal Expenses | $8,048 | $8,048 |
| Total | $14,056 | $22,344 |
| Degree Type | Doctorate |
| Total Program Credits | 144 |
| Program Length (Full-time) | 8 trimesters |
| Tuition Cost (per credit) | $1,321 |
| Total Tuition Cost | $190,224 |
| Application Fee (non-refundable) | $0 |
| STRF Fee1 (non-refundable) | $492.50 |
| Estimated Total Book Costs2 | $3,091 |
| Estimated Total Book Shipping Cost2 | $310 |
| Estimate for Uniforms Fees2 | $0 |
| Estimate for Materials/Supplies ($281.25 per trimester)2 | $2,250 |
| Technology Fee3 ($200 per trimester) | $1,600 |
| Estimated Total Program Costs (California residents) | $197,967.50 |
| Estimated Total Program Costs (non-California residents) | $197,475.00 |
*Students starting in Fall of 2023 (08/14/2023) and later will be enrolled in the Accelerated Hybrid program only.
NOTE: Applicants that are conditionally accepted to the Doctor of Pharmacy program will be required to submit a $500.00 good faith payment for a Seat Deposit. The Seat Deposit will be credited to your program costs. The University will retain a maximum of $175.00 of this deposit should you cancel your enrollment within seven calendar days (excluding holidays) of enrollment or by the seventh calendar day of the first term, whichever is later. Deposits may be paid by money order or cashier's check made out to West Coast University
1Effective April 1, 2022, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.
The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.
You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.
It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.
To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:
- The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
- You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
- You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
- The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
- The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
- You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
- You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.
To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.
A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.
However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.
2 The Estimate for Book, Uniform, and Supply fees reflect the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price totals compiled in January 2022 and are subject to change. Supplies become student purchases once issued to student. Students who drop or have been dismissed after supplies have been issued will assume ownership for these items and will not be eligible for refunds. For details on all of the supplies, contact the Bursar Office.
3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.
Note 1: Students who wish to take Challenge Exams will be subject to a fee of $100 for each Challenge exam. Please see the campus Bursar Office for a full price listing.
Note 2: Course Audits - If a course(s) is being audited. credits for these course(s) will be included for the student's schedule status for courses taken by semester. Audit course fees will be incurred by program, based on these schedule statuses shown above.
Admission Requirements
Applicants for the Doctor of Pharmacy program must:
- Have completed specific prerequisite coursework (63 semester credit hours or 94.5 quarter hour equivalents) from a regionally accredited institution in the United States.
- Required prerequisite courses:
- Two (2) courses in General Chemistry (four semester credit hours each, including a lab).
- Two (2) courses in Organic Chemistry (four semester credit hours each including a lab)
- Two (2) course in General Biology (with Cell Biology) (four semester credit hours each including a lab).
- One (1) course in Human/Mammalian Physiology (three semester credit hours each including lab).
- One (1) course in Human Anatomy (three semester credit hours each including a lab).
- One (1) course in Economics (Micro, Macro, or General) (three semester credit hours).
- One (1) course in Calculus (with Analytical Geometry) (three semester credit hours).
- One (1) course in Statistics (three semester credit hours).
- One (1) course in Speech Communication/Public Speaking/Interpersonal Communication or Debate (three semester credit hours).
- Two (2) courses in English Composition (three semester credit hours each).
- One (1) course in Psychology or Sociology (three semester credit hours).
- Two (2) courses in Humanities and Social/Behavioral Sciences (three semester credit hours each).
- One (1) course in Biochemistry (three semester credit hours each).
- One (1) course in Microbiology (three semester credit hours each including a lab).
Preferred Coursework (not required):
Physics with Laboratory (may be non-calculus based) 4 credits/6 credits
- Completion of prerequisite coursework with cumulative and math/science grade point averages (GPA) of 2.50 or higher is preferred.
- Submit 2 letters of recommendation. Letters should include one (1) from a math/science professor, and one (1) from a pharmacist (supervisor), employer (supervisor), healthcare professional (supervisor), math/science professor, or liberal arts professor.
- Submit a complete PharmCAS
- Complete the interview process.
For more information about our admission requirements, including the transfer and advanced standing credit policy, please visit our catalog.
Graduation and Licensure Rates
The WCU School of Pharmacy is ranked #5 in the state for NAPLEX pass rates and #3 for CPJA pass rates. We take great pride in everything our amazing pharmacy students have accomplished!
Below are the previous Doctor of Pharmacy program outcomes. Data for the hybrid PharmD program will be available in 2024.
Graduation Data
YearStudents Entering/GraduatingOn-Time Graduation Rate1
| 2022 | 73/52 | 71.2% |
| 2021 | 62/46 | 74.2% |
| 2020 | 60/53 | 88.3% |
NAPLEX Pass Rate
YearFirst-Time Pass Rate2
| 2022 | 79.2% |
| 2021 | 77.3% |
| 2020 | 68.6% |
CPJE Pass Rate
| Examination Window | Overall Pass Rate3 | West Coast University First-Time Pass Rate2 |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Window | Pass Rate3 | WCU First-Time Pass Rate2 |
| May 2022 – September 2022 | 63.1% | 62.2% |
| October 2021 – April 2022 | 44.7% | 50% |
| April 2021 – September 2021 | 55.9% | 46.2% |
| October 2020 – March 2021 | 50.8% | 48.6% |
| May 2020 – September 2020 | 63.7% | 53.1% |
| December 2019 – April 2020 | 47.5% | 37.5% |
Employment After Graduation4
| 2021 | 2020 | |
|---|---|---|
| Employed within the profession of pharmacy | 73.5% | 73.0% |
| Completing post-graduate education or residency training | 5.9% | &13.5% |
| Licensed / Not employed in the field | 20.6% | 13.5% |
*Student Respondents: 68% for 2021 and 67% for 2020
The above data are based on the program accreditor’s (ACPE) standards and definitions.
1 On-Time Graduation Rate: The percentage of students who complete the program during the same calendar year as declared upon matriculation
2 First-Time Pass Rate: The percentage of graduates who take and successfully pass the licensure examination on their first attempt
3 Overall Pass Rate: Pass rate for all CPJE test takers
4 Employment After Graduation: Percentage of student respondents by employment category within one year post-graduation
About the Hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Program
Mission
The West Coast University School of Pharmacy is a learning community that:
- Delivers a dynamic curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice
- Prepares students to serve patients as a member of an interprofessional team
- Engages in scholarship
- Serves the community through outreach
Vision
We are committed to providing students with a learning environment that emphasizes patient-centered care, interprofessional education, and leadership development. We constantly work towards creating a culture of scholarship among faculty and students and strive to lead the pharmacy profession to the forefront of an integrated and innovative practice.
West Coast University School of Pharmacy’s Doctor of Pharmacy program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, 190 South LaSalle Street, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60603-4810, 312-644-3575; fax 866-228-2631, website www.acpe-accredit.org. The Doctor of Pharmacy program at WCU received accredited status in 2018. The accreditation term granted for the Doctor of Pharmacy program extends until January 31, 2025. The professional program of the School and its accreditation status is designated on ACPE’s website, www.acpe-accredit.org. PLEASE NOTE THAT LICENSURE TO PRACTICE AS A PHARMACIST IS REQUIRED IN EVERY STATE. HOWEVER, THE EXAM AND LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS VARY BY STATE. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO RESEARCH THE REQUIREMENTS IN THE STATE IN WHICH YOU PLAN TO PRACTICE.
What Can You Expect from Your On-Site Experiential Education?
Our on-site experiences are designed to help you develop skills, knowledge, and values as you progress through the curriculum. Each year, you’ll build on your previous practice experience, slowly expanding on your competencies to instill confidence.
You’ll participate in two times of practice experiences. The Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs) take place during the first part of your education and introduce you to areas such as community practice and institutional practice.
The Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) take place during the second half of your degree and cover advanced practice in areas such as acute care and ambulatory care, among others.
The overall goals of the experiential program are to:
- Develop entry-level pharmacists able to practice at most major pharmacy sites
- Prepare students to achieve the various competencies detailed in the program learning outcomes
Feel free to contact the Office of Experiential Education to obtain further information:
West Coast University | School of Pharmacy
Office of Experiential Education
590 N. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles CA 90004
Telephone: (323) 284-4799
eFax: (213) 377-5489
email: expedu@westcoastuniversity.edu
Manage Your Own Virtual Pharmacy
As technology evolves, so should your education. The WCU Innovation Lab consistently strives to bring you new and more effective ways to learn. As thought leaders in education, we are at the forefront of the learning landscape, both seeking out the best study apps in the market and creating unique WCU products just for our students.
As a student at the WCU School of Pharmacy, you’ll get to practice your skills using virtual reality! It gives you the opportunity to test how well you can locate medication within a pharmacy setting and remember important drug information.
The North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination® (NAPLEX®) is the national assessment test taken by graduating pharmacy students. It’s one of the final requirements you’ll need to complete in order to practice.
West Coast University’s PharmD program offers an accelerated curriculum with integrated NAPLEX support so you can graduate and pursue your license with confidence. You’ll get access to one-on-one tutoring for the NAPLEX exam to help you target problem areas.
To learn more about what to expect, check out our “Guide to NAPLEX” blog post.
The priority deadline for receipt of all WCU School of Pharmacy scholarship application materials is March 31st. All scholarship offers must be accepted within 10 business days of the offer being extended. Funds remaining from unaccepted offers may be given to additional applicants on a monthly basis.
Scholarships for Incoming Students
Presidential Academic Excellence Scholarship (up to 5 recipients)
- $15,000 per academic year — up to $67,500 for the full 9-semester program
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or above
- Must have a bachelor’s degree
- Renewable for 4.5 years — must maintain GPA of 3.25 or higher throughout the program
- Must have accepted admission offer at the time of the scholarship offer
Mark Hacken Trustee Scholarship (up to 5 recipients)
- $10,000 per academic year — up to $45,000 for the full 9-semester program
- Must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.00 and above for the initial year offer
- Must be a member of an underrepresented minority group (African-American, Hispanic, and Native American)
- Renewable for 4.5 years — must maintain GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the program
- Must have accepted admission offer at the time of the scholarship offer
- Must have accepted the scholarship within 10 business days of receipt of the offer being extended
Dean’s Scholarship (up to 20 recipients)
- Up to $5,000 per academic year
- Must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or above for the initial year offer
- Renewable for 4.5 years — must maintain:
- GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the program; and
- Excellence in service engagement
- Must have accepted admission offer at the time of the scholarship offer
- Must have accepted initial scholarship offer within 10 business days of the offer being extended
Scholarships for Current Students
Service Excellence Scholarship (Up to 10 recipients)
- Must have active participation in at least one professional organization
- Must have a proven record of leadership in community outreach and/or service agreement
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher
- Scholarship amount: $1,000 scholarship toward the following year’s tuition
Leadership Engaging and Advancing Pharmacy (LEAP) Scholarship (up to 4 recipients)
- Must maintain a leadership role in activities of a professional organization and/or student government
- Must maintain a leadership role in a project that promotes pharmacy profession/practice
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher
- Scholarship amount: $2,500 scholarship toward the following year’s tuition
Students interested in receiving the President’s, Mark Hacken, and/or Dean’s Scholarships must notify the program dean of their interest as a part of the application process.
Scholarships will be applied toward required tuition and fees. Students who withdraw prior to program completion will forfeit future disbursements.
Scholarship for Fourth Year Students
The following scholarships may be offered over and above any other scholarship for which a student may qualify.
Academic Honors Scholarship
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Must have a third-year PCOA ranking of 75th percentile or higher
- Scholarship amount: $5,000 scholarship toward the fourth year of tuition
Academic Merit Scholarship
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Must have a third-year PCOA ranking between 50th and 75th percentile
- Scholarship amount: $2,500 scholarship toward the fourth year of tuition
Each of the above scholarship offers for new and current students is exclusive of the other offers, and each recipient will be selected at the discretion of the program using a scholarship rubric.
A student will receive the amount for the highest level for which the student was eligible and selected. For example, if the student is selected for both a Presidential Academic Excellence Scholarship and a Dean Scholarship, then that student will receive only the Presidential Scholarship. Only one scholarship will be offered per student.
The PharmD Student Handbook is designed to help you navigate through your time in our program. The handbook provides an overview of academic standards, policies and procedures, student resources, and expected behaviors — all in a single location.
Our PharmD Students Are Accomplishing Amazing Things!
As a WCU pharmacy student, you’ll get the support you need to go after regional and national recognitions. Check out the awards current and past students have received:
- WCU SOP APhA/CPhA-ASP. Our student chapter won CPhA Chapter of Excellence (2019- 2023)
- WCU SOP APhA/CPhA-ASP. Our student chapter won Most Innovative Student Chapter of the Year (2019 – 2022)
- CPhA Western Pharmacy Exchange Quiz Bowl Champions (2018, 2021, 2022)
- APhA Region 8 Recognition (2023)
- The WCU School of Pharmacy was recognized for Operation Substance Use Disorder for its novel initiative on the radio show out of all programs in Region 8. Out of 20 schools, our chapter took first place in this category, propelling our chapter to advance to the national competition taking place at the APhA’s Annual Meeting and Exposition 2023 in Phoenix, AZ
Mission & Vision
Mission
The West Coast University School of Pharmacy is a learning community that:
- Delivers a dynamic curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice
- Prepares students to serve patients as a member of an interprofessional team
- Engages in scholarship
- Serves the community through outreach
Vision
We are committed to providing students with a learning environment that emphasizes patient-centered care, interprofessional education, and leadership development. We constantly work towards creating a culture of scholarship among faculty and students and strive to lead the pharmacy profession to the forefront of an integrated and innovative practice.
Accreditation
West Coast University School of Pharmacy’s Doctor of Pharmacy program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, 190 South LaSalle Street, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60603-4810, 312-644-3575; fax 866-228-2631, website www.acpe-accredit.org. The Doctor of Pharmacy program at WCU received accredited status in 2018. The accreditation term granted for the Doctor of Pharmacy program extends until January 31, 2025. The professional program of the School and its accreditation status is designated on ACPE’s website, www.acpe-accredit.org. PLEASE NOTE THAT LICENSURE TO PRACTICE AS A PHARMACIST IS REQUIRED IN EVERY STATE. HOWEVER, THE EXAM AND LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS VARY BY STATE. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO RESEARCH THE REQUIREMENTS IN THE STATE IN WHICH YOU PLAN TO PRACTICE.
In-Person Practice Experiences
What Can You Expect from Your On-Site Experiential Education?
Our on-site experiences are designed to help you develop skills, knowledge, and values as you progress through the curriculum. Each year, you’ll build on your previous practice experience, slowly expanding on your competencies to instill confidence.
You’ll participate in two times of practice experiences. The Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs) take place during the first part of your education and introduce you to areas such as community practice and institutional practice.
The Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) take place during the second half of your degree and cover advanced practice in areas such as acute care and ambulatory care, among others.
The overall goals of the experiential program are to:
- Develop entry-level pharmacists able to practice at most major pharmacy sites
- Prepare students to achieve the various competencies detailed in the program learning outcomes
Feel free to contact the Office of Experiential Education to obtain further information:
West Coast University | School of Pharmacy
Office of Experiential Education
590 N. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles CA 90004
Telephone: (323) 284-4799
eFax: (213) 377-5489
email: expedu@westcoastuniversity.edu
Innovation
Manage Your Own Virtual Pharmacy
As technology evolves, so should your education. The WCU Innovation Lab consistently strives to bring you new and more effective ways to learn. As thought leaders in education, we are at the forefront of the learning landscape, both seeking out the best study apps in the market and creating unique WCU products just for our students.
As a student at the WCU School of Pharmacy, you’ll get to practice your skills using virtual reality! It gives you the opportunity to test how well you can locate medication within a pharmacy setting and remember important drug information.
NAPLEX Prep
The North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination® (NAPLEX®) is the national assessment test taken by graduating pharmacy students. It’s one of the final requirements you’ll need to complete in order to practice.
West Coast University’s PharmD program offers an accelerated curriculum with integrated NAPLEX support so you can graduate and pursue your license with confidence. You’ll get access to one-on-one tutoring for the NAPLEX exam to help you target problem areas.
To learn more about what to expect, check out our “Guide to NAPLEX” blog post.
Scholarships
The priority deadline for receipt of all WCU School of Pharmacy scholarship application materials is March 31st. All scholarship offers must be accepted within 10 business days of the offer being extended. Funds remaining from unaccepted offers may be given to additional applicants on a monthly basis.
Scholarships for Incoming Students
Presidential Academic Excellence Scholarship (up to 5 recipients)
- $15,000 per academic year — up to $67,500 for the full 9-semester program
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or above
- Must have a bachelor’s degree
- Renewable for 4.5 years — must maintain GPA of 3.25 or higher throughout the program
- Must have accepted admission offer at the time of the scholarship offer
Mark Hacken Trustee Scholarship (up to 5 recipients)
- $10,000 per academic year — up to $45,000 for the full 9-semester program
- Must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.00 and above for the initial year offer
- Must be a member of an underrepresented minority group (African-American, Hispanic, and Native American)
- Renewable for 4.5 years — must maintain GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the program
- Must have accepted admission offer at the time of the scholarship offer
- Must have accepted the scholarship within 10 business days of receipt of the offer being extended
Dean’s Scholarship (up to 20 recipients)
- Up to $5,000 per academic year
- Must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or above for the initial year offer
- Renewable for 4.5 years — must maintain:
- GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the program; and
- Excellence in service engagement
- Must have accepted admission offer at the time of the scholarship offer
- Must have accepted initial scholarship offer within 10 business days of the offer being extended
Scholarships for Current Students
Service Excellence Scholarship (Up to 10 recipients)
- Must have active participation in at least one professional organization
- Must have a proven record of leadership in community outreach and/or service agreement
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher
- Scholarship amount: $1,000 scholarship toward the following year’s tuition
Leadership Engaging and Advancing Pharmacy (LEAP) Scholarship (up to 4 recipients)
- Must maintain a leadership role in activities of a professional organization and/or student government
- Must maintain a leadership role in a project that promotes pharmacy profession/practice
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher
- Scholarship amount: $2,500 scholarship toward the following year’s tuition
Students interested in receiving the President’s, Mark Hacken, and/or Dean’s Scholarships must notify the program dean of their interest as a part of the application process.
Scholarships will be applied toward required tuition and fees. Students who withdraw prior to program completion will forfeit future disbursements.
Scholarship for Fourth Year Students
The following scholarships may be offered over and above any other scholarship for which a student may qualify.
Academic Honors Scholarship
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Must have a third-year PCOA ranking of 75th percentile or higher
- Scholarship amount: $5,000 scholarship toward the fourth year of tuition
Academic Merit Scholarship
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Must have a third-year PCOA ranking between 50th and 75th percentile
- Scholarship amount: $2,500 scholarship toward the fourth year of tuition
Each of the above scholarship offers for new and current students is exclusive of the other offers, and each recipient will be selected at the discretion of the program using a scholarship rubric.
A student will receive the amount for the highest level for which the student was eligible and selected. For example, if the student is selected for both a Presidential Academic Excellence Scholarship and a Dean Scholarship, then that student will receive only the Presidential Scholarship. Only one scholarship will be offered per student.
PharmD Student Handbook
The PharmD Student Handbook is designed to help you navigate through your time in our program. The handbook provides an overview of academic standards, policies and procedures, student resources, and expected behaviors — all in a single location.
Student Awards
Our PharmD Students Are Accomplishing Amazing Things!
As a WCU pharmacy student, you’ll get the support you need to go after regional and national recognitions. Check out the awards current and past students have received:
- WCU SOP APhA/CPhA-ASP. Our student chapter won CPhA Chapter of Excellence (2019- 2023)
- WCU SOP APhA/CPhA-ASP. Our student chapter won Most Innovative Student Chapter of the Year (2019 – 2022)
- CPhA Western Pharmacy Exchange Quiz Bowl Champions (2018, 2021, 2022)
- APhA Region 8 Recognition (2023)
- The WCU School of Pharmacy was recognized for Operation Substance Use Disorder for its novel initiative on the radio show out of all programs in Region 8. Out of 20 schools, our chapter took first place in this category, propelling our chapter to advance to the national competition taking place at the APhA’s Annual Meeting and Exposition 2023 in Phoenix, AZ
Featured Faculty
Kurt A. Wargo, PharmD, FCCP, BCPS
Dean & Professor, WCU School of Pharmacy
Dr. Kurt Wargo is the dean and a professor of the School of Pharmacy at West Coast University, where he brings decades of experience in clinical pharmacy practice and teaching in educational institutions.
Dr. Wargo received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Kent State University in 1997 and his Doctor in Pharmacy from Creighton University School of Pharmacy in 2002. In 2003, he completed a postdoctoral residency at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Wargo served on the faculty of Auburn University School of Pharmacy and the University of Alabama-Birmingham, Huntsville School of Medicine from 2003 to 2015. There he practiced pharmacy in internal medicine and infectious diseases.
In 2015, Dr. Wargo became the regional dean of Wingate University in Hendersonville, NC, where he led the school of pharmacy and physician assistant programs. In 2020, he became the dean of the Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy in Clinton, SC.
Dr. Wargo is board-certified in pharmacotherapy, and in 2016, he was elected as a Fellow of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters during his career.
“I especially enjoyed the patient case simulation experiences. It allowed us to have very hands-on, practical experiences in real-life clinical settings.”
– Jessie S., PharmD ’18
A Campus Made for Hands-On Learning
You’ll complete in-person portions of the program at our Center for Graduate Studies, located in vibrant Los Angeles. Adjacent to the famous Hollywood sign, the campus provides simulation labs and industry-current technology so that you can practice real-life pharmacy skills.
The Center for Graduate Studies is home to several graduate healthcare programs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, and mental health counseling, giving you the opportunity to connect with future professionals in a variety of healthcare fields.
FAQs
How long does it take to complete the PharmD program at WCU?
WCU’s accelerated hybrid PharmD program takes 33 months, or less than 3 years, to complete.
What’s the difference between PharmD and a pharmacist?
A pharmacist refers to the occupation of someone who practices in the field of pharmacy. PharmD is an abbreviation for Doctor of Pharmacy degree, which a pharmacist must obtain before being allowed to practice. State licensure is also a requirement of practice.
Can I transfer credits from previous coursework into the program?
If you were enrolled in a Doctor of Pharmacy program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), you may request advanced standing transfer into our program. Each transfer request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Only coursework that received grades of C (73%) or better can be considered for transfer.’
Acceptance of transfer credit does not guarantee that you will enter the same academic year as the Pharmacy School from which you are transferring. More information about our transfer requirements for the program can be found in our PharmD catalog page.
How does WCU School of Pharmacy support students preparing for the NAPLEX exam?
We provide our PharmD students with study resources and one-on-one tutoring during their program to help ensure they feel prepared to take the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX).
How can I learn more about the PharmD program at WCU?
Fill out the form at the bottom of this page and a representative will reach out to you and answer any questions you have about our Doctor of Pharmacy program. You can also sign up for an information session.
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Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
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