Thinking about grad school but not sure you鈥檙e ready to spend half a decade in the classroom? There鈥檚 good news: not all healthcare graduate programs require you to put your life on pause for years. In fact, you can step into some of the most impactful roles in the field through accelerated master鈥檚 and doctoral programs in less than three years.

Whether you’re building on a healthcare background or starting fresh, you have numerous options that can lead you to a rewarding career. Keep reading to discover five healthcare graduate degrees that can help you build a successful career 鈥� without the long wait.

What Are Common Graduate Healthcare Degrees?

Medical school isn鈥檛 the only way to build a worthwhile career in healthcare. While it鈥檚 easy to picture years of studying before you can begin working, some healthcare graduate programs offer faster, more flexible avenues into patient care without compromising on quality.

If you鈥檙e exploring your next steps, some common graduate paths include programs for physician assistants, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and pharmacists. These roles let you work directly with patients while also giving you the chance to take on leadership and decision-making responsibilities.

Plus, at an accredited institution like 国产主播, you can prepare for many of these careers in less time. Take a look at some common graduate healthcare degrees:

1. Master of Physician Assistant

Want the advantages of being a medical provider without spending years in medical school? diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, perform exams, and even assist in surgeries, working closely with physicians across a range of clinical settings.

Through the Master of Physician Assistant program at WCU, you can earn your degree in as little as two years. You鈥檒l build a strong foundation through classroom learning and gain real-world experience during a full year of clinical rotations across multiple specialties.

Toward the end of the program, you鈥檒l get individualized support to confidently prepare for the .

2. Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)

allows you to help people heal physically while also supporting their emotional and social well-being. Whether you’re working with a child facing developmental delays or an adult recovering from surgery, you鈥檙e guiding patients as they regain confidence and independence.

At WCU, the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program takes less than two years to complete, with no bachelor鈥檚 degree needed. You’ll learn through a mix of classroom instruction, clinical labs, and fieldwork placements that prepare you for the exam.

Earning a master鈥檚 degree is also a key requirement for becoming a licensed occupational therapist, making this program a smart and practical next step. Learn more about what it takes to become an occupational therapist in California.

3. Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD)

If you鈥檙e ready to build on your occupational therapy background and grow into a leadership role, the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program at WCU can help you get started. Designed for working professionals, this advanced degree helps prepare you for clinical specialization, research, advocacy, and program development.

The program can be completed in as little as 32 months (less than three years) and combines on-campus with online synchronous learning for greater flexibility. Plus, from day one, you鈥檙e matched with an occupational therapy (OT) faculty mentor who can offer personalized guidance and help you explore the many settings where OTs make an impact.

4. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

You鈥檝e seen them in rehabilitation clinics, athletic facilities, or at private practices. are movement specialists who help patients through recovery from surgery, injury, or chronic conditions.

From stroke recovery to sports rehab, PTs develop personalized treatment plans and guide patients through every stage of healing, often becoming a critical part of someone鈥檚 journey back to independence.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at WCU is designed to give you hands-on experience to excel in this growing field through three full-time, end-of-program internships. You鈥檒l also complete coursework that covers topics such as biomechanics, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and ethical practice.

5. Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)

If you picture pharmacists as people who just count pills behind a counter, think again. Pharmaciststoday are patient-facing healthcare providers, and in many states, they can even administer vaccines and consult directly with physicians as part of a comprehensive care team.

奥颁鲍鈥檚 hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program can be completed in just under three years. The curriculum combines clinical rotations with a strong foundation in drug safety, therapeutics, and healthcare systems. Once you graduate, you鈥檒l be prepared to take the and step confidently into roles across hospitals, research, retail, or even public health policy.

Want to explore this career path in greater depth? Learn more about becoming a pharmacist in California.

How to Choose a Healthcare Graduate Program

Selecting the right graduate program begins with being clear about your professional goals and learning style. It鈥檚 also important to factor in any current responsibilities that might affect your ability to stay focused while enrolled.

If you鈥檙e looking for a hands-on role in clinical care or being part of a care team, paths as a physician assistant or physical therapist can give you the kind of patient interaction that many find especially rewarding. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to medication management or even research, you might feel more fulfilled as a pharmacist.

As you weigh your options, ask yourself questions such as:

• Can the program fit my current work or family schedule?
• Will the program prepare me to sit for any required licensure or certification exams?
• Are there opportunities for diverse clinical rotations?
• Is the learning format (online, hybrid, or in-person) a good match for how I learn best?

In the end, the right program supports your career goals, personal strengths, and lifestyle. If you鈥檙e not sure where to start, reaching out to the admissions team at a school you’re considering is a great first step.

Earn a Graduate Degree in Healthcare in Under 3 Years at WCU

You don鈥檛 have to spend half a decade in grad school to make a difference in healthcare. Whether you see yourself guiding patients as a physician assistant, supporting your community as a pharmacist, or helping people regain independence through occupational therapy, there are healthcare graduate programs that can get you there in less than three years.

At 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles, each accredited healthcare program is built to prepare you for real-world success with experienced faculty and industry-current simulation labs. From your first assignment to your clinical rotations, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 programs are designed for future healthcare professionals who are ready to lead with purpose.

Advance your education on your own terms 鈥� schedule an information session at WCU today to see how you can earn your graduate degree in under three years.

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Hybrid PharmD students returned to 国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies for the Spring Trimester Immersive Week 鈥� an energizing blend of academic assessments, service learning, professional development, and face-to-face connection. 

鈥淚t provides the faculty and associates the opportunity to engage face-to-face with the students and students to likewise engage with one another,鈥� WCU School of Pharmacy Dean Kurt Wargo said. 鈥淚t is an important aspect of creating and maintaining the sense of community we all feel with one another.鈥�  

Academic and Experiential Learning 

The week began with final exams, lab sessions, and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), giving students 鈥� particularly those in the second-year cohort 鈥� a chance to apply what they’ve learned in real time. 

Second-term students also explored new technology through a Virtual Reality Pharmacy simulation and engaged in Interprofessional Education (IPE) by collaborating with Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students on patient care planning. 

鈥淭hey worked on a patient care plan together, understanding how each discipline plays a crucial role in patient care,鈥� WCU-CGS Student Advisor Annie Mouradian noted. 

Community Engagement 

Students stepped beyond campus to serve the local community at the St. Francis Center, where they provided blood pressure and diabetes risk screenings, offered health education, and supported food pantry operations. 

鈥淪tudents were able to apply their knowledge in real-world settings while also making a positive impact on the local community,鈥� Mouradian shared. 

Career Development 

Fifth-year students preparing for fall Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) attended a Career and Professionalism Workshop hosted by Career Services. They also took part in an informative session with Dr. Colleen Le-Leavitt, residency program director at Walgreens. Her team shared insights into California healthcare laws, upcoming legislation, and Walgreens鈥� ongoing advocacy with the Board of Pharmacy, helping students better understand the broader landscape of pharmacy practice. 

Celebration and Reflection 

The week wrapped with the annual Honors and Awards Ceremony, recognizing student achievements and offering a moment of celebration and reflection. 

鈥淲e ended the week celebrating their achievements, reflecting on all they鈥檝e accomplished and how far they鈥檝e come in their journey,鈥� Mouradian added. 

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国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies hosted its highly anticipated California Pharmacists Association Awards recognition ceremony this March, where several individuals and organizations were honored for their outstanding contributions to the field of pharmacy. 

This year鈥檚 PharmD ceremony highlighted the incredible accomplishments of both students and faculty, with a special focus on the role of mentorship, innovation, and dedication to patient care. 

Dr. Ani Avoundjian: New Practitioner of the Year 

Among the awardees was Dr. Ani Avoundjian, an assistant professor at WCU, who received the prestigious New Practitioner of the Year award at the state level from the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA). In an emotional reflection on her achievement, Dr. Avoundjian shared, “I am beyond honored to be recognized as New Practitioner of the Year at the state level by the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA)! This award is especially meaningful as it reflects the impact of my early years in pharmacy and the passion I have for patient care, advocacy, and mentorship.” 

Dr. Avoundjian’s recognition is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of her continuous dedication to improving patient outcomes, advocating for the pharmacy profession, and fostering the next generation of pharmacists. 

鈥淪tepping into this profession has been an incredible journey, and I鈥檓 truly grateful for the mentors, colleagues, and students who have shaped me along the way,鈥� she added. 

A Recognition for the Pharmacy Community 

This award is a testament to her hard work, but Dr. Avoundjian emphasizes that the honor is not only hers. She credits the larger pharmacy community for its collective drive towards excellence, saying, 鈥淭his recognition is not just about me 鈥� it鈥檚 about the pharmacy community that continuously pushes boundaries, uplifts one another, and strives for excellence. I鈥檓 proud to be part of a profession that is making a difference every day.鈥� 

WCU and San Fernando Valley Pharmacists鈥� Association Shine 

In addition to Dr. Avoundjian鈥檚 individual success, the ceremony also celebrated notable achievements from the 国产主播 and the San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association teams. The WCU PharmD program received several awards, showcasing the strong leadership and dedication of its students and faculty. The university was awarded the Innovative Chapter of the Year and Chapter of Excellence titles. These awards were largely due to the exceptional leadership of 奥颁鲍鈥檚 student chapter president, Janna Mozannar, who has been instrumental in driving these initiatives forward. 

The Local Chapter of Excellence award was also presented to the San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association, under the leadership of Dr. Avoundjian and Dr. Anna Chaparyan. Their tireless efforts in creating meaningful local initiatives have made a significant impact on the broader pharmacy community. 

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Pharmacy 

Reflecting on the accomplishments of the WCU and San Fernando Valley Pharmacists鈥� Association teams, Dr. Avoundjian expressed immense pride in the achievements of the students and leaders involved, stating, “I couldn鈥檛 be prouder of our students and leaders for their dedication and hard work.” 

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Team-Based Learning (TBL) is:

A special form of collaborative learning using a specific sequence of individual work, group work and immediate feedback to create a motivational framework in which students increasingly hold each other accountable for coming to class prepared and contributing to discussion. -Michael Sweet

This active, collaborative learning strategy improves student attendance, engagement, progression, critical thinking, and performance. Students come to class ready to apply conceptual knowledge to significant problems and activities that promote collaborative analysis, communication, teamwork, and immediate feedback. Since its development, TBL has become a 鈥� especially in the field of healthcare.

Team-Based Learning in the Classroom

Unlike traditional lecture-based instruction, the majority of TBL class time centers on problem-solving, collaborative analysis, and discussions within and between teams explaining their reasoning and evidence. The instructor moves from a sage-on-the-stage role to a guide-on-the-side role, facilitating students to ask the right questions, defend their thinking, and elevate their analysis, closer to what an expert sees in a problem.

To help students come ready for these applications in class, the instructor prepares focused pre-class readings, videos, or short assignments to help students quickly develop a foundation for the topics planned for class. Students prepare individually with these materials and start class with a short individual readiness assurance test (IRAT) and then take it again in teams (TRAT), followed by class discussion and clarification.

What Does TBL Do for Students?

TBL offers feedback on preparation and helps to close gaps in foundational knowledge prior to engaging in higher level applications. To manage team dynamics, students often create team contracts to set shared expectations and periodically offer feedback to team members through a peer evaluation process.

TBL shifts the classroom focus from passively understanding information to dynamically engaging with one another to solve deeper problems based on what experts see in practice. Through this preparation, readiness assurance, significant applications, collaboration, facilitated discussion, and regular feedback, students elevate their learning and performance for the subject matter and become ready for lifelong learning.

Students also grow key professionalization skills that assist them in their future careers, including:

• Teamwork
• Leadership
• Communication
• Critical Thinking
• Problem-Solving
• Time Management

This approach is especially helpful for anyone starting out in fields where teamwork is key to making informed group decisions and meeting shared goals. It also shows students how diverse teams and differing viewpoints are a strength when exploring and solving complex problems, teaching us to take time to listen and explain our understanding to others.

The History of Team-Based Learning

Founded by the original creators of TBL, the is an organization of educators from around the world who encourage and support the use of team-based learning in all levels of education.

The concept of team-based learning emerged in 1979 when Dr. Larry Michaelsen, faced with the challenge of teaching a class that had tripled in size to 120 students, developed a structured, team-focused approach to learning. To ensure students were prepared and engaged, Michaelsen developed what is now known as the 鈥�4S鈥� framework, a foundational aspect of TBL that guides the design of each team activity.

The 鈥�4S鈥� framework is a test of an application鈥檚 design, ensuring that each activity had:

• A Significant Problem that the learners will want to engage and also important to the outcomes for the course.
• The Same Problem for all teams to allow for shared analysis and discussion.
• A Specific Choice so students compare options and then choose and defend the best answer as a team, elevating analysis skills.
• A Simultaneous Report so that all teams share their answers all at once, avoiding answer drift, and inviting exploration and comparison of team answers across the class.

This approach quickly gained traction as a method to improve student engagement, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, initially in Michaelsen鈥檚 own classes and eventually across many disciplines and industries and now around the world.

Today, TBL has expanded well beyond its original setting and is commonly used in fields like business, agriculture, and healthcare, where collaboration and practical application are essential. It鈥檚 also heavily implemented across universities and professional programs worldwide to help students apply their learning to real-world scenarios.

Why is Team-Based Learning Important in Healthcare?

Founded by the original creators of TBL, the is an organization of educators from around the world who encourage and support the use of team-based learning in all levels of education.

The concept of team-based learning emerged in 1979 when Dr. Larry Michaelsen, faced with the challenge of teaching a class that had tripled in size to 120 students, developed a structured, team-focused approach to learning. To ensure students were prepared and engaged, Michaelsen developed what is now known as the 鈥�4S鈥� framework, a foundational aspect of TBL that guides the design of each team activity.

The 鈥�4S鈥� framework is a test of an application鈥檚 design, ensuring that each activity had:

• A Significant Problem that the learners will want to engage and also important to the outcomes for the course.
• The Same Problem for all teams to allow for shared analysis and discussion.
• A Specific Choice so students compare options and then choose and defend the best answer as a team, elevating analysis skills.
• A Simultaneous Report so that all teams share their answers all at once, avoiding answer drift, and inviting exploration and comparison of team answers across the class.

This approach quickly gained traction as a method to improve student engagement, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, initially in Michaelsen鈥檚 own classes and eventually across many disciplines and industries and now around the world.

Today, TBL has expanded well beyond its original setting and is commonly used in fields like business, agriculture, and healthcare, where collaboration and practical application are essential. It鈥檚 also heavily implemented across universities and professional programs worldwide to help students apply their learning to real-world scenarios.

Why is Team-Based Learning Important in Healthcare?

It鈥檚 no surprise that in the field of healthcare, teamwork, effective communication, and problem-solving are essential skills that directly influence patient outcomes and quality care.

TBL offers a highly organized way for students to practice these skills in real-life clinical settings, analyzing patient cases to make informed, evidence-based decisions as a team. Through these exercises, students build trust with their peers, learn to communicate with clarity, and take on shared responsibility for learning.

Rather than simply relying on memorization and regurgitating concepts, students are given case studies and apply their knowledge as a group to decide on the best treatment plans.

Join an Innovative PharmD Program at WCU

Looking to join a program that gives you the hands-on, real-world learning you need to succeed in the pharmaceutical field? 奥颁鲍鈥檚 hybrid PharmD program integrates TBL and other active learning strategies to help prepare you for a collaborative, practice-ready essential for the multidisciplinary environment of healthcare 鈥� all in as little as 33 months!

Plus, you don鈥檛 have to sacrifice your schedule. As one of the first pharmacy schools in the nation to launch an accelerated hybrid format, the program requires only one week on campus per term (every three months) at our Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles.

Watch this video of the and schedule an info session to learn more about how the program can help you advance your pharmacy career with confidence.

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At 国产主播, innovation and collaboration are the heartbeats of our academic community. This ethos was brilliantly showcased through the diverse and impactful presentations delivered by our faculty and students at various prestigious conferences nationwide. These presentations, backed by the 国产主播 RDS Conference Presentation Grants, underscored the dedication and ingenuity that drive our institution forward. 

Occupational Therapy: Addressing Sleep Disturbances 

At the 2024 American Occupational Therapy Association Inspire Annual Conference and Expo in Orlando, Florida, Dr. Manisha Sheth, along with her dedicated students Thea A., Anne A., Chris G., and Nicole T., presented their groundbreaking study on the impact of breast cancer treatments on sleep among survivors. This mixed-methodology research highlighted the significance of sleep in the recovery and overall well-being of breast cancer survivors. Their findings emphasized the need for personalized, client-centered interventions to address sleep disturbances, promoting holistic health and quality of life. The presentation not only shed light on a critical aspect of survivorship but also reinforced the core principles of occupational therapy, showcasing its vital role in evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. 

Pharmacy: Celebrating Innovation and Safety 

Meanwhile, the School of Pharmacy made a significant mark at the APhA Annual and Exposition in Orlando, Florida. Students Janna T., Coria M., Neil A., and Tigran K. proudly represented 国产主播, earning national recognition for their exceptional work. Their innovative project, which included a captivating PharmFlix film, won the Most Inspirational award. Their efforts in promoting OTC Medication Safety earned them a Regional Award. These accolades highlighted the students’ commitment to advancing pharmacy practice through creative and impactful initiatives. The conference provided them with invaluable networking opportunities and furthered their professional development, reinforcing the university’s reputation for excellence on a national stage. 

Teaching and Learning: Exploring the Metaverse

The Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning Director Randy DeWitt also took a bold step into the future at the Southern XR Summit in Cedar City, Utah. Their presentation, “The Immersive Learning Playbook,” showcased 国产主播’s pioneering journey in integrating a WebXR metaverse within a healthcare-focused educational setting. Through engaging and immersive projects developed in the FrameVR environment, the presentation demonstrated the innovative strategies and collaborative efforts that are transforming the learning experience for students and faculty alike. This initiative exemplifies the university’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance education and foster creativity.

Occupational Therapy: Promoting Independence 

 Dr. Manisha Sheth returned to the spotlight at the AOTA Inspire Conference with another significant presentation on the effectiveness of a universal oral hygiene program in promoting independence among inpatient rehab patients. This mixed-methodology study underscored the importance of activities of daily living (ADL) and functional independence in occupational therapy. By focusing on essential self-care skills, the program highlighted the value of evidence-based practice, client-centered care, and interdisciplinary collaboration in enhancing patient outcomes and fostering holistic health. 

Pharmacy: A Unique Case Study 

Finally, at the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists Conference in Orlando, Florida, WCU faculty Parna Haghparast, with the collaboration of P4 student Matthew N., presented a fascinating case report on treatment-resistant priapism in a 61-year-old male. This rare and unusual presentation, triggered by a combination of psychiatric medications, underscored the need for vigilant monitoring of adverse effects. Their work, soon to be published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, highlighted the importance of individualized treatment approaches and thorough patient assessment in managing complex cases, contributing valuable insights to the field of psychiatric pharmacy. 

These presentations, supported by the 国产主播 RDS Conference Presentation Grants, are a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration. By addressing critical issues and pushing the boundaries of knowledge, our faculty and students continue to make a profound impact on their fields and the broader community.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How is WCU contributing to research in occupational therapy for cancer survivors?

A: WCU researchers presented a groundbreaking study at the American Occupational Therapy Association Conference on the impact of breast cancer treatments on sleep among survivors. The study emphasized the need for personalized, client-centered interventions to address sleep disturbances, promoting holistic health and quality of life for cancer survivors.

Q: What innovative approaches is WCU taking in pharmacy education?

A: WCU pharmacy students showcased their creativity at the APhA Annual and Exposition, winning awards for their PharmFlix film and OTC Medication Safety project. These initiatives demonstrate WCU’s commitment to advancing pharmacy practice through innovative and impactful educational approaches.

Q: How is WCU integrating advanced technology into healthcare education?

A: WCU is pioneering the integration of WebXR metaverse technology in healthcare education. The university’s presentation at the Southern XR Summit showcased immersive learning projects developed in the FrameVR environment, demonstrating innovative strategies to enhance the learning experience.

Q: Where can I learn more about 奥颁鲍鈥檚 occupational therapy and pharmacy programs?

A: On our website, you can find all kinds of helpful information about our PharmD, MSOT, and OTD programs. If you have any follow-up questions, attend an information session to connect with one of our knowledgeable advisors.

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Taking time to ensure patients are comfortable with their medication isn鈥檛 something Janna M. had to be taught as a 国产主播 doctor of pharmacy student. That was a lesson she learned on her own a long time ago.

As a child, her grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer while visiting from Lebanon and ended up staying with Janna’s family in California for five years. During hospital visits, Janna noticed how the pharmacist would take extra care to make sure her grandmother 鈥� who speaks only Arabic 鈥� knew precisely what was going on with her care.  

鈥淪he would really take the time to explain things that the other healthcare professionals couldn’t just because there was that language barrier,鈥� Janna said. 鈥淚 saw the compassion behind that pharmacist, and that really stuck with me, so I became a (pharmacy technician) and then was encouraged to come back to school to become a pharmacist.鈥�

Born and raised in Burbank, Janna had looked at pharmacy schools across the country before picking 国产主播, which was located just a few miles from her home. Janna said she liked how engaged the professors were in her educational journey and appreciated 奥颁鲍鈥檚 accelerated program.

鈥淲e are not only a three-year program, but we are also a hybrid as well, so we have some students that aren’t even in state and just come in one week during the semester. It really is flexible for those students, maybe some moms at home that they’ve always wanted to go back to school, but it couldn’t fit with their busy schedules,鈥� she said. 鈥淲ell, now they can do that.鈥�

Currently working as a pharmacy intern at a community clinic, Janna said the best part of her day is spending a few extra minutes with patients and seeing how grateful they are, or receiving positive feedback about how she handled a potentially tricky situation.

“That’s kind of like the gratification for the day,” she said, “and I’m like, ‘That’s why I’m here, that’s why I’m doing this.鈥�”

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The 国产主播 School of Pharmacy held its second annual open house this January to give prospective students a tour of the campus and hands-on demonstrations of some of the skills they would master as doctors of pharmacy.

鈥淚 hope that students can appreciate what we have to offer here at 国产主播, being the only accelerated hybrid program here in this part of the country,鈥� WCU Pharmacy Dean Kurt Wargo said. 鈥淚t’s a fantastic opportunity for them to see the campus, see what we have to offer, and then decide that this is the school they want to attend.鈥�

After a brief introduction, attendees were broken into groups to tour the campus, including stops to see classrooms, the campus library, the retail pharmacy lab, and the newly opened physician assistant suite, where pharmacy students undergo simulation activities to practice scenarios in a hospital setting. The tour’s highlight was the group鈥檚 visit to the compounding lab, where students combined ingredients like bee鈥檚 wax, sweet almond oil and lavender extract to produce homemade lip balm.

鈥淏eing an accelerated hybrid program, students can graduate in approximately 33 months,鈥� Wargo said.

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The WCU School of Pharmacy encourages students to participate in professional events and activities that help develop skills and enable networking. This promotes the development of future healthcare leaders, while giving students the opportunity to earn recognition.

Check out some of the events our students have participated in over the years:

AACP Walmart Scholars Program

2020 Walmart Scholar Recipient: Tiffany L. Gurley (Class of 2020); Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jessica M. Louie

Over the past 18 years, AACP and Walmart have supported individuals who aspire to join the academic field through the . Scholarship recipients participate in the AACP Annual Meeting and Seminars. Since 2005, more than 1,200 graduate students, professional (doctoral) students, residents, and fellows have been selected to participate in the program with their mentors.

APhA-ASP National Patient Counseling Competition

WCU School of Pharmacy students qualified for state and national patient counseling competitions (2020, 2021, 2023).

CVS Health and APhA-ASP sponsor the APhA-ASP National Patient Counseling Competition to support student-pharmacists in becoming better patient educators. Designed to reflect changes that are occurring in pharmacy practice, the competition promotes and encourages further professional development, reinforcing the role of the pharmacist as a healthcare provider and educator. Students first compete to be the national representative from their school and ultimately compete on the national level in preliminary and final rounds at the APhA Annual Meeting & Exposition.

APhA Award Recognition (Region 8)

The WCU APhA-ASP chapter was recognized in 2023 and 2024.

In 2023, the WCU APhA-ASP chapter submitted an innovative programming poster titled Radio Talk Shows with Pueblo y Salud. Out of the 20 schools of pharmacy in region eight, the WCU APhA-ASP chapter took first place in their category and advanced to the national level at the APhA Annual Meeting and Exposition 2023. In 2024, the WCU chapter was once again recognized.

APhA Pharm Flix Awards

Most Inspirational Award (2023)

The APhA Pharm Flix Awards was launched in 2009 as a way for student pharmacists to showcase their professionalism while expressing their creativity through short public service announcements. In 2023, the WCU team was recognized with a “Most Inspirational” award for their video.

CPhA-ASP Chapter of Excellence Recognition

CPhA Chapter of Excellence (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)

The Chapter of Excellence (COE) designation recognizes CPhA-ASP chapters that have achieved excellence in pursuing the CPhA mission and goals in promoting the health of the public through the practice of pharmacy. Criteria for the award is based on philanthropic and/or disease state related activities in which the local pharmacy association collaborates with the student chapter either as a sponsor or as volunteer participant. The WCU CPhA-ASP chapter has received this award five years in a row. 

ASHP Mid-Year Clinical Seminar Quiz Bowl Competition

Quiz Bowl winners (2021)

ASHP hosts meetings, conferences, and specialty courses each year to provide pharmacy practitioners with venues for expanding their knowledge, networking with colleagues, and learning about the latest health-system pharmacy issues, products, and technologies. The 2021 WCU School of Pharmacy ASHP/ CSHP-ASP Quiz Bowl team won the competition on the skills of Thy Pham, Emin Janaslani, and Anita Bazikyan (Class of 2022); and Maryam Ahmadi Nejad (alternate), Sepehr Afshari (alternate), Alison Rufo, Sabrine Yamauchi, and Veerpal Sandhu (Class of 2023).

ASHP Mid-Year Clinical Meeting California Clinical Skills Competition

Qualified as National Finalist, Maryam Ahmadi Nejad (Class of 2023)

Qualified as National Finalist, Sepehr Afshari (Class of 2023)

Our 2021 WCU ASHP-ASP Clinical Skills team competed against 12 teams from other schools/colleges of pharmacy in California and placed in the top six slots. Maryam and Sepehr went on to represent our school in national competition in December 2021 at ASHP mid-year meeting.

ASHP Outstanding Professional Development Award

The WCU ASHP/CSHP Chapter was recognized in 2023-2024.

In addition to being a recognized student society, the ASHP Pharmacy Student Forum recognizes outstanding professional development projects through this award. The award takes into account project content, information, creativity, resourcefulness, impact, and overall impression.

California Pharmacy Leadership Seminar

2018: Jacqueline Paz (Class of 2021), Emmanuel Olivarez (Class of 2020), and Ross Pineda (Class of 2019)

2019: Alejandro Del Rio Verduzco (Class of 2022), John-Eric Cabreza (Class of 2021), and Dorine   Akumawah (Class of 2020)

2020: Anna Boghosian (Class of 2021), Rafel Kalo (Class of 2022), and Briana Hillo (Class of 2023) (pre-empted)

2021: Emily Grigoryan and Briana Hillo (Class of 2023), and Cedric Nettey (Class of 2024)

2022: Anthony Chu and Chinazor Ezembaji (Class of 2024), and Tigran Khachatryan (Class of 2025)

2023: Jaevon Miranda, Michelle Williams, and Ani Gukasian (Class of 2025)

Each year, the School of Pharmacy nominates several students to represent us at the California Pharmacy Student Leadership Seminar, hosted at the USC School of Pharmacy. The seminar brings together pharmacy students from across the state of California, showcasing student projects and enabling students to learn from their peers who present on student-led initiatives at their respective programs.

CPhA-ASP Innovative Chapter of the Year

Most Innovative Chapter (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2024)

Among all the California pharmacy programs, and for four years in a row, the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA) recognized our WCU CPhA-ASP chapter with the Innovative Chapter Award for embodying the CPhA core values of visionary leadership, innovation, diversity of thought and opportunity, and entrepreneurship. Congratulations WCU CPhA-ASP chapter!

CPhA Rx Boot Camp

Rx Boot Camp winners included WCU students in 2016: Jade Willa (Class of 2018), and in 2021: Emily Kieu (Class of 2021).

CPhA sponsors the annual Rx Boot Camp, a leadership-training seminar developed by student-pharmacists and for student-pharmacists from all California schools. Students explore how they can use entrepreneurship, technology, and leadership to elevate the quality of care delivered to patients. They work in teams to develop innovative solutions, pitch ideas to entrepreneurs, and compete in a Shark Tank-style competition!

CPhA Western Pharmacy Exchange Quiz Bowl Competition

CPhA Quiz Bowl Competition Championship Trophy (2018, 2021, 2022)

奥颁鲍鈥檚 School of Pharmacy CPhA-ASP Quiz Bowl team successfully defended its quiz bowl champion trophy at the 2022 Western Pharmacy Exchange in Las Vegas with the help of students Lucy Telliyan, Kevin Aprelian, and Chinazor Ezembaji (Class of 2024), and Alison Rufo and Andre Dzhambazian (Class of 2023). The 2021 WCU SOP Quiz Bowl team, represented by Rojan Ghorbannejad, Dena Homayounieh, Janet Petrosyan, and Veerpal Sandhu (Class of 2022), and Alison Rufo (Class of 2023) took first place at the Western Pharmacy Exchange in Palm Springs. WCU had previously also taken first place in 2018 with a talented team that included Zarouhi Abrahamian, Talin Baronian, Yevgenia Gabriyelova, Steven Kim, and Sylvie Kengne (Class of 2019).

CSHP Student Leadership Award 

CSHP’s 2018 Student Leadership Award Recipient: Loree Karkodorian (Class of 2019)

CSHP’s 2021 Student Leadership Award Recipient: Briana Hillo (Class of 2023)

CSHP’s 2022 Student Leadership Award Recipient: Kirsten Cruz (Class of 2024)

CSHP鈥檚 2023 Student Leadership Award Recipient: Monica Kattoula (Class of 2025)

The CSHP Student Leadership Award recognizes pharmacy students鈥� involvement in and contribution to CSHP and to the profession of pharmacy, which includes, but isn鈥檛 limited to, leadership roles in the organization (i.e., student chapter officer).

United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award

2018 Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award recognition: Rayburn Mumbuna (Class of 2020)

2022 Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award recognition: Shelia Melone (Class of 2023)

2023 Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award recognition: Amal Abdelmalek (Class of 2023)

2024 Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award recognition: Michelle Williams (Class of 2025)

The pharmacists of the United States Public Health Service established the Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award in 2003 to encourage student-pharmacists to become active in public health. This annual award recognizes pharmacy students who demonstrate a commitment to public health and are active in developing innovative approaches to current public health challenges.

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Aspiring Pharmacist Need-to-Knows About Licensure Testing

The North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination庐 (狈础笔尝贰齿庐) is the national assessment test taken by graduating pharmacy students. It鈥檚 one of the final requirements you鈥檒l need to complete in order to practice. The test is administered by the , and is designed to evaluate a PharmD graduate鈥檚 readiness to join the workforce.

The test is a six-hour exam with 225 questions, and it鈥檚 graded on a pass-or-fail basis. In this post, we explore some of the most-asked questions about what鈥檚 on the test, how to prepare, and the steps required to take it, so you can sit for the exam with confidence.

Do I need to take the NAPLEX?

In order to practice as a pharmacist, yes. Passing the exam is a standard requirement for licensure. The exam assesses your knowledge and readiness by testing the competencies you need to perform complex duties in this essential healthcare role.

What鈥檚 on the NAPLEX?

The NAPLEX assesses , each allotted a specific percentage of your score. You鈥檒l be tested on the academic knowledge, practiced skills, and professional judgment needed to qualify for licensed pharmacy practice:

• Area 1 (approximately 18%): Obtaining, accessing and assessing data and patient information
• Area 2 (approximately 14%): Identifying drug characteristics
• Area 3 (approximately 35%): Developing and managing treatment plans
• Area 4 (approximately 14%): Performing calculations
• Area 5 (approximately 11%): Compounding, dispensing, administering, and delivery systems
• Area 6 (approximately 7%): Safety and quality of medical-use systems

Each of these areas will cover a range of relevant testing points. Review these areas thoroughly to help you make a game plan to focus your topics of study.

How to Prepare for the NAPLEX

Start preparing for the exam early, and take advantage of all the resources available. Here is a basic roadmap of preparation milestones for the NAPLEX:

• for NABP tips and reminders.
• Get familiar with the tested on the NAPLEX.
• so you know what format to expect on the test.
• Take the official .
• Familiarize yourself with the test day .
• Don鈥檛 forget to rest up before you test up!

Steps to Take the Exam

It鈥檚 important to get informed and stay on top of the steps and procedures you鈥檒l need to follow to get ready and register for the test. In addition to studying up, you鈥檒l want to get familiar with state-specific requirements and make sure all of your paperwork is in order. Follow the steps below to make sure you鈥檙e queued up and on schedule:

1. Check your state鈥檚 for any specific requirements.
2. Sign up for tips, updates, and information through the NABP.
3. on the NABP website.
4. to confirm your eligibility.
5. through your school registrar.
6. Once your NABP profile confirms your eligibility, purchase the exam. Consider purchasing at the time you purchase your test.
7. Wait to receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) by email.
8. Schedule your exam appointment with .
9. Receive your Pass or Fail exam results within 14 days.

What if I don鈥檛 pass?

The NAPLEX is graded Pass or Fail. In the event you fail the exam, you are permitted to retake the test up to five times.

What鈥檚 the Difference Between the NAPLEX and the MPJE?

The Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination庐 (MPJE庐) is another test usually taken by graduating PharmD students to obtain licensure. While the NAPLEX focuses on general practice knowledge, . You鈥檒l have to take the MPJE in order to get your state license or to transfer your license to an alternate state if you relocate. In most cases, you鈥檒l need to take and pass both the NAPLEX and the MPJE to begin practice.

Got Exam Anxiety?

You鈥檙e not alone. Pre-exam jitters are common, but you don鈥檛 have to let them hold you back. The best way to face your pass-or-fail fears is to face them in advance. Set yourself up for success by curating a mindful study space, learning strategies for effective note-taking and information retention, and taking care of yourself. For more on this, we invite you to browse our many study tips blog posts.

Earn Your PharmD Degree at WCU

国产主播鈥檚 PharmD program offers an accelerated curriculum with integrated NAPLEX support so you can graduate and pursue your license with confidence. Our student-centric approach includes a dynamic curriculum taught in a hybrid online/in-person format. You鈥檒l get hands-on experience in simulation labs, leadership training, and community engagement for a well-rounded education.

In addition to a rigorous course of study, you鈥檒l enjoy extensive support that includes one-on-one tutoring for the NAPLEX. And as a WCU student, you鈥檒l have access to Career Services throughout your education and beyond graduation.

Learn more about our Doctor of Pharmacy program and how to apply today!

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The latest pharmacy board exam rankings are in, and we couldn鈥檛 be prouder of our 国产主播 School of Pharmacy Class of 2022 graduates!

As the graduates of our PharmD program¹ move from school into professional practice, they need to pass challenging exams for licensure. Our grads proved themselves to be highly prepared, as WCU’鈥檚 School of Pharmacy achieved the following rankings:

• 5th in California for the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) overall pass rate²
• 3rd in California for the California Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (CPJE) pass rate²

鈥淭he Class of 2022 was able to propel WCU to number 5 in the state with a 78% overall pass rate for the NAPLEX, and they were number 6 in the state with a 79% first-time pass rate,鈥� said WCU School of Pharmacy Dean Kurt Wargo. 鈥淭his result is an amazing climb from where we were in 2018 with a 62% first-time pass rate and has put us on target with the national first-time pass rate.鈥�

鈥淭he Class of 2022 NAPLEX and CPJE pass rates are a testament to not just the hard work of our students, but also the education and support provided by the amazing faculty and staff of the WCU School of Pharmacy,鈥� Dr. Wargo added.

Congratulations to our recent graduates for this incredible achievement!

Training the Next Generation of Pharmacists

Our hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy program¹ is designed to help prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of contemporary pharmacy practice. We provide our PharmD students and graduates with NAPLEX and one-on-one tutoring so they can walk into their exam with confidence.

Our hybrid PharmD program¹ offers students the flexibility of online coursework combined with hands-on, in-person learning experiences and the support of faculty who are experts in their respective fields. With a duration of 33 months, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum within a timeline that allows for speed to completion.

Learn more about our Doctor of Pharmacy program and how to apply!

¹The 国产主播 School of Pharmacy has submitted a formal request to the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) for an accelerated hybrid program. The request is currently pending ACPE approval, and it is our hope that ACPE will take the necessary actions to enable a Fall 2023 launch of the program. If approved, the accelerated hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy program will be the only available program version being offered at WCU starting with the Fall 2023 trimesters (August 14, 2023).

²California State Board of Pharmacy, ““

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