Pre-pharmacy Sciences

In fall 2020, the Bachelor of Science in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences (CDS) program began offering a new specialization in Pre-pharmacy Sciences, which prepares students to meet the academic prerequisites necessary to be considered for admission to accredited Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) programs.

According to Dale Telgenhoff, Ph.D., associate professor and coordinator of the pre-pharmacy sciences specialization, this track provides a strong foundation for pharmacy doctorate programs through coursework, clinical labs and experiential learning opportunities.

To help students gain a deeper understanding of drug function at the cellular and molecular level, and apply these concepts to the treatment of disease, Telgenhoff has developed a new course: Pharmacology (CDS 4050). This 3-credit course reviews all aspects of the properties and effects of drugs, including the principles of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenomics.

And, a new affiliation agreement helps students seamlessly transition from OU’s School of Health Sciences to Manchester University (IN) in pursuit of graduate pharmacy degrees. Under the agreement, Manchester agrees to reserve seats in each annual cohort for qualified OU students entering its Doctor of Pharmacy, and its Master of Science in Pharmacogenomics programs. Additionally, successful completion of the first-year coursework at Manchester transfers back to complete the OU bachelor’s degree.

“The curriculum aligns with that of Manchester, allowing for a straightforward degree pathway, which saves students time and money,” describes Telgenhoff. “This agreement is another way that we are working together with other institutions for the benefit of our students. Ultimately, we are helping students achieve their professional goals after graduation.” 

Pharmacists play a valuable role in the communities in which they serve, enhancing patient care and promoting wellness by preparing and dispensing prescriptions, ensuring treatments and doses are correct, preventing harmful drug interactions, and counseling patients on the safe and appropriate use of their medications.

There is a growing need for pharmacists in a wide variety of work settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, the pharmaceutical industry, mail order pharmacy centers, managed care organizations, and government agencies. Telgenhoff adds, “The pre-pharmacy sciences track is ideal for students who want to help people live healthier, better lives, and have a strong aptitude for science.”

To learn more about the Pre-pharmacy Sciences specialization, visit oakland.edu/shs/clinical-and-diagnostic-sciences/pre-pharmacy-sciences.