Pharmacy

Pharmacists dispense prescription medications and provide information to patients about the drugs and their use.

Checkout KU's Pharmacy Program

Pharmacy at a Glance

Pharmacy is a blend of science, health care, direct patient contact, technology, ethics, and business. A pharmacist is a highly-skilled and trusted medication expert. They know and understand everything there is to know about drugs. Pharmacists undergo extensive education in order to understand the role that drugs play in different situations. They are familiar with the biochemical make up of drugs and how that impacts their use, side effects, interactions, and implications of effectiveness. Their role revolves around dispensing prescriptions to patients, conducting health screenings, giving immunizations, and advising on the safe use of medicine.  

Core 34 Pre-Admission Coursework: Check Sheet (PDF)

Core Pre-Admission Coursework: Check Sheet (PDF)

References: KU recommends asking pharmacists, employers and professors.  Other programs have similar recommendations. 

Shadowing Experience or Introductory Course:  KU expects that students will have an overall understanding of the profession, so shadowing pharmacist(s) is recommended.  Other programs require/recommend shadowing, as well. 

Healthcare Experience: Pharmacy and/or patient care work or volunteer experience is highly recommended for KU. 

Community Service/Leadership Experience: Recommended 

Research Experience: Not required 

Pre-Admission Standardized Tests: KU does not require the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT), but some programs do. The final PCAT testing cycle will be offered during the 2023–2024 admissions cycle. No PCAT testing dates will be offered during the 2024–2025 admissions cycle or beyond. All test-takers may continue to request Official Transcripts and Personal Score Reports through the Pearson website until February 2026. 

Student Organizations: Pre-Pharmacy Club, Industry Pharmacists Organization, Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International, Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity (co-ed), National Community Pharmacists Association, International Pre-Health Sciences Organization, Delta Epsilon Mu (co-ed healthcare fraternity), University of Kansas Women in Medicine, Future Leaders in Healthcare 

Application Window: August 1-June 1 

Resume Required: No 

Centralized Application Service: Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS) 

Early Decision Option: No 

Interview Required: Yes 

Rolling Admissions: Yes