(354) Evaluation of Specialty Concentrations/Tracks in PharmD Training and Post-Graduate Career Trends

Objective : To determine the number, types, and structure of specialty tracks or concentrations offered within PharmD programs and emerging career trends. The findings of this study can aid PharmD schools in successfully incorporating specialized tracks to prepare future graduates for the expanding pharmacy profession.

Methods: U.S.-based schools of pharmacy websites were obtained from the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) website, and analyzed to identify specific concentrations or tracks offered within PharmD programs (area of focus, prerequisites, starting year, and curricular structure). Graduating PharmD student surveys provided by the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) of years 2016 to 2022 were analyzed. Trends observed in post-graduation career areas were documented.

Results: Among 140 pharmacy schools with candidate or full status ACPE accreditation, 69 schools (49.3%) offer specialized concentrations or tracks. In total, there are 218 specialized offerings, categorized into 9 major categories (clinical, research, administration & leadership, area-specific, entrepreneurship & business, age-specific, industry, setting, others). Clinical and research are the most prevalent. From 2016-2023, the percentage of graduating students intending to work at chain or independent pharmacy decreased from 47.3% in 2016 to 33.9% in 2023, while the percentage of graduates planning to pursue careers in consultant, Academia, Associate management, Pharmaceutical Industry, Managed Care, Government, or regulatory agency increased from 14.2% to 20.3%.

Conclusions: A significant number of pharmacy schools are incorporating specialized concentrations or tracks into their PharmD programs. The trend of shifting interests among pharmacy graduates highlights the necessity for more tailored trainings to align with the evolving career preferences.