Insights into Decreasing Applicants to Schools and Colleges of Pharmacy in the United States


  • Abstract

    This study sought to explore recent declines in pharmacy school applications by describing factors that influence undergraduate students’ decision to study pharmacy at selected research universities in the United States (US) with schools and colleges of pharmacy. Key findings include:

    • Factors that positively influence undergraduate students’ decision to study pharmacy include the prestige of a doctorate degree, job security/stability, salary, job availability, the ability to improve people’s health and wellbeing, the opportunity to work in healthcare, and the range of possible careers within pharmacy.
    • Family members, pharmacists, pre-pharmacy or pharmacy students, a college teacher or advisor, and pre-pharmacy clubs were more frequently reported as a positive factor in undergraduate students’ decision to apply or have an intent to apply to pharmacy compared to students who were still undecided.
    • High tuition for pharmacy school negatively influences undergraduate students’ decision to study pharmacy.

    These factors can help schools and colleges of pharmacy and professional organizations develop impactful practices and policies for promoting and recruiting individuals into the pharmacy profession.


  • Authors:

    Bacci JL, Oster NV, Skillman SM

  • Journal/Publisher:

    Center for Health Workforce Studies, University of Washington

  • Edition:

    Aug 2024.

  • Funder:

    HRSA: HWRC Allied Health

  • Documents:

    Full Report

  • Citation:

    Bacci JL, Oster NV, Skillman SM. Insights into Decreasing Applicants to Schools and Colleges of Pharmacy in the United States. Center for Health Workforce Studies, University of Washington. Aug 2024

  • Related Studies:

    What is Driving the Enrollment Crisis at Schools and Colleges of Pharmacy