Pre-Pharmacy

As a regional leader in health care education, USD offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs that provide students with an education alongside other future health care professionals. With the state's only comprehensive health sciences school and medical school, USD creates a unique learning environment mirroring the health care industry, where students from various disciplines collaborate in coordinated teams. This collaborative approach enriches education and fosters connections among future colleagues. 

USD's commitment to supporting undergraduate research ensures that pre-pharmacy students gain valuable experiences early on, with opportunities to engage in research teams, earn mini-grants, present at national conferences and conduct research within the health care field.

The university also emphasizes a comprehensive liberal arts degree, placing humanity at the center of health care education. USD focuses on developing communication, emotional intelligence and teamwork skills to prepare students not only as experts in their field but also as capable leaders who serve with confidence, empathy and compassion. The university's commitment to producing practice-ready professionals equipped for the evolving health care landscape positions graduates to lead and serve their communities effectively.

USD's pre-pharmacy program is designed to align with recommended coursework, considering pharmacists' role as health care professionals with a focus on medication management and patient care. There is no preferred major to accommodate diverse interests but students are encouraged to obtain a Bachelor's degree. Advisors assist students in navigating specific admission requirements for individual pharmacy schools.

Undergraduate Program Finder

Initiate a conversation with your advisor when registering for classes, expressing your interest in pre-pharmacy studies. Your advisor will guide you through course selections aligning with the pre-pharmacy track and connect you with a dedicated pre-pharmacy advisor for ongoing support. Engage in coursework spanning anatomy, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, mathematics, physics, psychology and statistics to meet pharmacy school prerequisites. Beyond the classroom, explore opportunities like undergraduate research and involvement in student organizations to enrich your academic experience. After three years of coursework, allocate time for the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) preparation and examination before applying to pharmacy school.

A USD education equips you for diverse career options. As a liberal arts university, we provide a well-rounded education, imparting versatile skills for success in various fields. Whether applying to other medical-related programs, entering the workforce or pursuing graduate programs in different fields, your USD education prepares you for a fulfilling and successful future.