If putting on a white coat and dispensing life-saving medications appeals to you, earning the Doctor of Pharmacy degree offers a clear path to that goal. As a vital component of the healthcare system, pharmacists possess the skills and knowledge to save and enhance the lives of patients. As experts in drugs, medications, and treatments, pharmacists improve the health of patients, help cure them of disease, and assist in managing pain caused by injuries and illness. Some medications must be taken with extreme care, however. It’s up to the highly skilled pharmacist to know which drugs interact poorly with others and which ones will better suit a patient’s needs.
The rigorous PharmD program takes from two to five years to complete and requires diligent work and financial resources. To find the online PharmD program that’s right for you, ask questions including:
“Is the PharmD program worth the cost? How will I know which school is right for me? Should I pursue the program on a full-time basis? What is online learning really like in a pharmacist program?”
Get answers to these questions and others as we provide an overview of the online PharmD program experience. Get help to guide your decision with information on what to expect in an online program, a list of top-rated schools, admission tips, tuition details, and more.
Best Online PharmD Programs for 2023
Choosing the best online pharmacy school takes some attention to detail, as there are dozens of accredited programs through high-quality schools that offer a great education. Think about what matters the most to you: tuition cost, time on campus, high-quality faculty, or maybe something else? We shine a spotlight on the top overall PharmD programs for 2023 to help you see which ones stand out and why.
Howard University offers a nontraditional, cost-conscious doctorate of pharmacy (PharmD) for students who already have experience in the field. Along with traditional coursework, students complete 1,440 hours of clinical rotation, which can include hours worked at their full-time pharmacy job or hours spent in clinical rotations. A large portion of those hours comes from students' work in pharmacy and reflections on their work. To begin the degree, students complete three semesters of online, self-paced work and a three day in-person orientation. Since the courses are self-paced, they're easier to fit around a full-time work schedule. After that, the rest of the degree comes from work experience. Because the program is designed for those already working in pharmacy, it can be completed in as little as two years. Most students finish in a little over two years to almost four years.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Pharmacy
- Credits: 73
- Length: 2-4 years
- Cost: $30,842/year
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
The doctorate of pharmacy (PharmD) online from St. John Fisher College is a student-centered, four-year degree . All coursework in this program can be completed online, with many courses in the evenings or on weekends to fit around a full-time work schedule. While coursework is online, there are campus immersion programs throughout the year, with students attending about one per semester. Along with these campus visits, students must also complete 2,000 hours of clinical rotations, which are done in-person at a pharmacy near them. In total, students complete six immersions and 11 clinical rotations by the time they graduate. When applying for the program, learners need two years, or 62 hours, of pre-professional higher education courses and two letters of recommendation.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Pharmacy
- Credits: 151
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $1,233/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
The University of Colorado Denver and the Anschutz Medical Campus offer a flexible doctorate of pharmacy designed for working professionals. This degree can be completed in as little as two years, depending on an applicant's educational background, and only requires 35 credit hours for those who qualify. According to the program website, 99% of the students are employed while completing this degree. To accommodate students, courses are designed for optimal flexibility. That means it's possible to complete this degree 100% online, with virtual classes being offered at times which work for many students' schedules. However, clinical rotations must be completed in person. They can be completed anywhere in the United States, not just within the state of Colorado. If students are employed in the field of pharmacy, they can also complete clinical rotations at work.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Pharmacy
- Credits: 35-65
- Length: 2-4 years
- Cost: $979/crredit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
Auburn University offers a doctorate of pharmacy (PharmD) that can be paired with a PhD or master's of public health (MPH). On average, students in either program complete the program in four years. The curriculum consists of a mixture of traditional courses, classes with clinical components, and clinical rotations. All coursework can be completed online, or a student can decide to complete some classes fully in-person. Other classes may be completed in a blended format with lectures online and the clinical component and labs in person. While it is possible to complete all coursework online, students must complete clinical rotations in person. Students are able to complete their clinical rotations near where they live, so the program is accessible to those outside the state. For an increased layer of accessibility, out-of-state students pay the in-state tuition rate for online courses.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Pharmacy
- Credits: 42
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $5,283/semester
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio20
Students looking for a student-centered doctorate in pharmacy (PharmD) program that works with their schedule should consider the degree from Creighton University. The PharmD Distance Pathway is designed for students to get the most from their online pharmacy eduation. Over four years, students in the program take courses in pharmacy and complete clinical rotations. Not only is the program known for a high quality curriculum, it was also the first accredited distance learning program for a pharmacy doctorate. Because of this, the faculty understand what components contributed to a strong online program and have incorporated best online learning practices into each course. Creighton University offers asynchronous and synchronous distance learning courses and blended courses with some in-person components. Other than the clinical rotation component, it is possible to complete all other degree requirements fully online. The clinical rotation can be completed in person near the student, not on or near campus, for increased accessibility.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Pharmacy
- Credits: 146
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $39,128/semester
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
In Duquesne University's four-year doctorate in pharmacy program, students take courses in subjects such as pharmaceutical calculations and human physiology. After two years of foundational courses, students begin clinical rotations while also having the opportunity to take electives or concentrate in one area during their last three years of the degree. Available concentrations include acute care concentration, ambulatory care, community practice, entrepreneurial pharmacy, geriatric pharmacotherapy, and health service research and outcomes. All courses can be taken online, though students must complete clinical rotations in person. In addition to the university's accreditation, the program has accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Successful applicants often have an undergraduate degree in math or science and a strong GPA.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Pharmacy
- Credits: 142
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $1,842/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers a PharmD degree program that is divided into three phases. While not all program requirements are available online, some are. Phase one kicks off with an in-person orientation on MCPHS's Boston campus. After completing orientation requirements, students begin phase two, which includes five semesters of online lectures. In these lectures, students study subjects such as drug therapy and pharmacoepidemiology. Finally, students enter phase three, which consists of160 hours of clinical rotations. These hours take place over four weeks, and students rotate between different pharmacy workplaces, such as ambulances, health systems, and internal medicine. It is important to note this is a nontraditional program, meaning successful applicants already are licensed to practice pharmacy in the United States. Due to this fact, students can graduate in three years instead of the typical four to six years.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Pharmacy
- Credits: 43
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $1,380/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio12
Online PharmD Program Spotlight
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
The four-year program for aspiring pharmacists at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine begins with laying a firm foundation of basic courses during the first year then moving into advanced courses the second and third year. The fourth year of the online Doctor of Pharmacy program focuses on clinical practice of six rotations, six weeks each, in community and clinical settings. Courses are presented in both asynchronous and synchronous format, and students are required to attend residencies on the physical campus in Bradenton, Florida for between one and three weeks every summer during the program duration. All testing is conducted through a virtual proctoring testing service.
- This ACPE-accredited program began serving students in 2014.
- Tuition is approximately $27,765 per year, not including fees.
Benefits of Online Pharmacy School
It’s a busy world out there, and colleges and universities are well aware that students need a variety of learning options. Most students in doctorate programs need to continue working full-time while they pursue higher education. Some require the flexibility of online learning so they can attend class when it’s most convenient for them. When attending an online PharmD program, consider these benefits:
1
Saving on costs.
Though the tuition for an online program can be the same as that of an in-state resident or a flat tuition fee (in most cases), there are some real savings to be had, such as the ability to use electronic textbooks, avoid a long commute and the costs associated with it, and not have to compromise your work schedule and paycheck in order to attend classes.
2
Customizing your pace.
Many online Doctor of Pharmacy programs allow you to customize your experience by allowing you to take one course at a time, take a few courses to be considered part-time, or dive right into the full-time status. Accelerated programs can take as little as two years to complete, assuming you already hold a master’s degree; others can take as long as five or six years, allowing for maximum flexibility.
As online learning becomes more common, more PharmD programs are likely to turn to virtual learning to provide the best options for their students. However, it’s important to understand the types of online programs out there before you choose your own Doctor of Pharmacy program.
Types of Online PharmD Programs
The online Doctor of Pharmacy program offers the option of a blended or hybrid education and a fully online education. It’s important to understand what those two options mean. Keep in mind that the rigorous requirements for the PharmD program will require some in-person campus visits even if the program is billed as 100% online. There will also be a requirement to complete clinical rounds or internships, which are always completed in person. Here’s what to expect from the different types of online programs.
Fully online
In these programs, the vast majority of courses are taken entirely online, with no classroom visits required. Many programs offer a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning. Asynchronous courses allow you to complete the course at your own pace with a final deadline in place; synchronous elements require you to log onto the program website, discussion board, chat room, or Zoom meeting at scheduled times to meet with your cohort and professors.
In addition, fully online programs often require students to spend a brief amount of time on campus. Called intensives, immersive experiences, or even residencies, these short visits might span anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, and typically occur once a semester. Of course, clinical hours are expected to be completed in person, but usually at a location that is convenient to the student.
Blended or hybrid
In this type of program, many courses can be completed online, but others are expected to be completed in person. These might include courses taken on weekends or evenings to allow for the busy schedules of those enrolled. The in-person courses are often taken at the college or a satellite location, which means living within driving distance is a must. Hands-on requirements are completed in person as well, just as with the fully online programs.
Timeline: Online Pharmacy School
Though most online pharmacy school programs take four years and some might stretch to five, there are other options, such as an accelerated program that means you complete the work within two short years. How long the program might take depends on various factors including the prerequisite courses you’ve already completed or the degree you already hold. For instance, those with a master’s degree will likely finish in a shorter amount of time than those who hold a bachelor’s degree. The timeline below is an example of what a three-to-four-year program would look like.
Year
1
During this year, expect to focus on introductory studies in advanced pharmacology. If you need to finish up any prerequisites, especially if you are coming into the program with a bachelor’s degree, this will be the year you do that. Some courses might include advanced assessment, biostatistics and biotechnology, literature evaluation, and pharmaceutical laboratory work. You might have to attend the college in-person once or twice, for a few days each time, to meet professors and your cohort for in-person intensives.
Year
2
This year will introduce more in-depth topics, including courses in pathophysiology, pharmacology of infectious diseases, applied pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenomics, and more in-depth lab work. This year will probably also include more on-campus visits of short duration, as well as the potential to start clinical rotations. You will work closely with your academic advisor to make sure you’re on the right path for graduation in the appropriate timeframe.
Year
3
For some, this year will be all about clinical rotations at various clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies in areas that are suitable for the student; some schools might require this study to occur at their preferred locations. Coursework will now be all upper-level classes that drive home earlier lessons and dive deep into pharmacology in all its forms. If you’ve chosen a specialty, this is the year you’ll focus hard on that, as well as touch on the ethical, legal, and best professional practices of pharmacists. Some will graduate this year.
Year
4
If you’re still in the program, this year is likely focused on full-time clinical rotations and finishing up any final projects or collaborative efforts with your cohort. You might also begin preparing for the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE). If you are seeking to move into research or other advanced position, you’ll begin looking into the one- or two-year residency that you’ll be required to complete after graduation.
It’s important to look closely at each potential program to ensure its right for your needs. Look at the requirements, how many campus visits you must make, your professional goals, the costs, and the other crucial details to determine which program is the best option for you. Never hesitate to reach out to an admissions advisor, program faculty or department head to get further information.
Online PharmD Learning Outcomes
Though each school will set their own curriculum and approach their programs a bit differently, aspiring pharmacists all need to have the same base of knowledge and skills in order to maintain patient safety and lead a pharmacy. To that end, each school will teach you certain things across the board, with some variations for those who choose a particular specialization. By the time you graduate, you will be able to fulfill these learning outcomes as you move into your new career.
1
In-depth knowledge of medications.
The goal of a pharmacist is to understand all medications, learn about emerging treatments, and be able to provide patients with a safe experience concerning those medications.
2
Excellent communication.
Communicating clearly with colleagues and patients is a vital part of any pharmacy practice. This clear communication, especially with patients and the members of their healthcare team, can mean the difference between life and death.
3
Problem solving.
Pharmacists often encounter issues with patients who are prescribed a variety of drugs, perhaps from different prescribers, which could lead to complications or serious interactions. Figuring out to how to solve those problems, who to contact, and what solutions might exist is a key part of the job.
4
Managing medical systems.
The vast majority of pharmacy work is computerized, and each pharmacy uses a variety of systems throughout a typical day. Understanding the technology and keeping up with new developments can help you take care of patients appropriately.
5
Social and cultural awareness.
As a pharmacist, you will work with patients from all backgrounds and cultures. Understanding the different views on medications, natural healing, and the sometimes contradictory beliefs between the two is important to navigate the communication with patients and ensure they are doing all the right things to stay healthy.
Specializing with Your Pharmacy Doctorate
The Board of Pharmacy Specialties recognizes 14 specialties for pharmacists. Some of these specialties are extremely specific, such as solid organ transplantation pharmacy, while others are much broader, such as pediatric pharmacy. Choosing a specialization can allow you to tailor your education to work with specific populations or situations, which could lead to a rewarding career in a space you enjoy more than general pharmacy work. Here are some of the specialties you can choose from:
- Geriatrics. This specialty focuses on dispending the proper medications for patients of an advanced age. Since many older patients might be on many medications at once, it’s important to understand how those medications can interact and help ensure patient safety.
- Oncology. This requires work with very specialized treatments for those with various cancers. The compounding of these medications often requires special instructions, precautions, and care.
- Ambulatory. The focus of this specialty is on those who need a wide variety of medications, such as the range of patients found in clinics, hospitals, and the offices of physicians. This includes some of the most common medications prescribed.
- Critical care. Some patients require medications that keep them stable during critical care treatment. This means their medications can be extremely time sensitive and great care must be taken to ensure no negative interactions occur.
- Psychiatric. This specialization looks at the specific medications given to those who have psychiatric or psychological issues that need treatment. Pharmacists in this focus must be very careful to ensure no medication interactions that could exacerbate a patient’s condition.
Accreditation & the Online Doctor of Pharmacy
When seeking out the best online Doctor of Pharmacy degree, it’s important to look at the accreditation status of the school and program. Regional accreditation, awarded to the school as a whole, is determined by an independent accrediting body accepted by the U.S. Department of Education. These regional accrediting bodies examine and make an accreditation determination for every facet of the school including the education standards, financial viability, excellence of faculty, student services, and more. Regional accreditation is often touted on a school’s website, but if you can’t find it, double-check their status at eitherthe Council for Higher Education Accreditation, or the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
Programmatic accreditation is the examination of the program within a school. Not all programs will be accredited, but the online Doctor of Pharmacy should be. Accredited online Doctor of Pharmacy programs can be found at the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. There are currently about 130 doctor of pharmacy programs accredited throughout the United States. Keep in mind that in order to become licensed, you must graduate from an accredited program, so be certain that your chosen program is accredited before you apply.
Applying to an Online PharmD Program
When applying to a graduate program, there are certain things every school will look for, such as your GPA from previous schools, a written statement or essay, and an application that provides insight into your background. More competitive programs like the PharmD might look for more information, such as your employment experience and prerequisite courses taken to prepare you for the program. Here are some of the more unique points you might need to present when applying to the online PharmD program.
- Work experience. Those interested in programs with this requirement must show that they have some work experience in a pharmacy setting, commonly as a pharmacy technician.
- Interview. Many PharmD programs are highly competitive, and someone who looks good on paper might not be the best fit. That’s why interviews are important. The interview for an online program may take place via a virtual meeting or in person. Prepare for the possibility of an interview by working with an academic advisor on questions you might be asked.
- Pharmacy College Admission Test.This test replaces the GMAT or GRE for students going into the program. Schools place certain weight on these scores, just like they do the GPA, to help determine whether you are a good candidate for their program.
Paying for Online Pharmacy School
Though every school requires tuition and fees, online school can cut down on other costs. For instance, there’s no commute or very few visits to campus, which can result in significant savings on fuel, car maintenance, and even parking fees. On the other hand, there might be some other expenses, such as keeping a working computer and internet coverage. The bottom line for affordability, however, always begins with tuition. Let’s take a look at some of the tuition costs at schools across the country for the online PharmD program.
| School | Cost per Credit | Total Credits | Subtotal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Howard University | $1,594 | 65 | $103,610 |
| Creighton University | $1,318 | 134 | $176,612 |
| St. John Fisher College | $1,098 | 151 | $165,798 |
| Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences | $990 | 64 | $63,360 |
NOTE: Keep in mind that some schools have tuition assistance, grants, scholarships, and other methods to help PharmD students pay for their degree. There might also be internship opportunities, fellowships, employer reimbursement programs, and more. That means that the amount of tuition might be much less than what you see here or on a school’s tuition and fees page. To be sure of your options, always contact the financial aid office of the school you hope to attend and ask for specifics regarding tuition, fees, and the options for payment. In the meantime, read through our guide to scholarships and grants to see what’s available and how to apply.
Salaries for PharmD Degree Holders
Earning the PharmD degree is labor intensive and can be expensive, but is balanced out by future earnings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacists made a median annual wage of $128,090 in 2019. Those who were at the lower end of the scale made a median wage of $88,400, while pharmacists at the upper end of the pay scale had the potential to make as much as $162,900 or more. The highest pay tended to be found at general merchandise stores, followed closely by food and beverage stores, hospitals, and pharmacies and drug stores. Payscale.com provides average yearly salary amounts for specific pharmacist job titles, including:
| Job Title | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Pharmacist | $119,000 | $141,000 |
| Pharmacy Manager | $132,000 | $150,000 |
| Pharmacy Director | $147,000 | $177,000 |