Frequently Asked Questions
What is a prepharmacy program?
A prepharmacy program is an undergraduate pathway that prepares students for admission to a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. At Samford, students complete foundational science and general education coursework in about two years, building the academic skills needed to successfully transition into pharmacy school.
Are there prerequisite courses to declare the major?
No.
Do I need a minimum GPA to enter the program?
No, unless admitted through the Early Assurance Program.
Are internships or field experiences required?
No, internships and field experiences are not required until the student begins the Doctor of Pharmacy program. Pharmacy Practice Experiences (PPE) are a fundamental part of the Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum.
Why do I have to apply to Samford and this school separately?
A separate Samford University application is required for high school students applying to the prepharmacy program, the Early Assurance Program or the traditional admissions process.
Non-Samford PharmD applicants only apply through PharmCAS, the national centralized application service used by pharmacy schools to review academic history, prerequisite completion and supporting materials.
Non-Samford PharmD applicants only apply through PharmCAS, the national centralized application service used by pharmacy schools to review academic history, prerequisite completion and supporting materials.
Are research opportunities available for undergraduates?
No. However, once students begin the Doctor of Pharmacy program, students have access to robust research opportunities.
Does Samford guarantee admission to the PharmD program?
Samford offers the Early Assurance Program that can guarantee admission to the PharmD program for qualified students. Those admitted as freshmen and who meet all academic and progression requirements during the two-year pre pharmacy curriculum are assured a seat in the PharmD program.
How long does prepharmacy take?
Samford’s pre pharmacy program is designed to be completed in two years. After finishing this coursework, students transition into the four-year Doctor of Pharmacy program, creating a streamlined path that allows students to earn both degrees in approximately six years total.
Can I major in something other than pharmacy?
Yes, students can choose different undergraduate majors while completing pharmacy prerequisites. However, Samford’s structured pre pharmacy pathway is specifically designed to align required coursework and advising, helping students stay on track for PharmD admission without extending their timeline.
Is this program available to transfer students?
The Early Assurance Program has been expanded to allow both incoming freshmen and transfer students from any accredited two or four-year school (if accepted into the EAP program as a high school senior or college freshman). Transfer students can still complete prerequisite coursework and apply to the PharmD program through the traditional admissions pathway. Admission is competitive and based on academic performance, completed prerequisites and overall readiness for pharmacy school.
Can I still get the BS without completing the PharmD?
Students in Samford’s Early Assurance Program earn a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy Studies after completing the second year of the PharmD program. This means the bachelor’s degree is awarded along the way, rather than as a standalone degree before entering pharmacy school.
