JWU, USJ Partner to Offer Expedited Pathway to Pharm.D. Degree

JWU has partnered with the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) to launch a new 3+3 program that creates a pathway for qualified JWU students to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology and a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree in 6 years. The program, which is now available to students, maximizes the time and investment of students by providing a path to complete their studies a year ahead of schedule — saving up to a year’s tuition in the process.

As part of the articulation agreement between JWU and USJ, priority admission will be granted to eligible applicants from JWU to USJ’s School of Pharmacy and Physician Assistant Studies’ Pharm.D. program located in Hartford, Connecticut. Students who enroll in JWU’s Biology program and meet admissions requirements will spend their first three years at JWU before matriculating directly into the USJ School of Pharmacy and Physician Assistant Studies to begin the Pharm.D. program. Students who have completed their biology degree requirements will receive their bachelor’s degree in biology from JWU during their first year enrolled in USJ’s Pharm.D. program.

“As JWU evolves into a more comprehensive university and continues to expand its footprint in the health arena, USJ became a natural partner in this endeavor,” said Michael Fein, Ph.D., dean in JWU’s John Hazen White College of Arts & Sciences. “This accelerated pharmacy program provides students the best of both worlds: a strong academic foundation and a cost-effective, fast track to professional success. It also reaffirms JWU and USJ’s commitment to the applied liberal arts. With this agreement, our Biology students now have another pathway to enter the health professions.”

“USJ looks forward to welcoming qualified Biology students from JWU to our Pharm.D. program in the future. The agreement facilitates a seamless transition for qualified students from JWU into the USJ Pharm.D. program. Graduates will join the health care team in a variety of settings, including hospitals, ambulatory care clinics and retail pharmacies,” said University of Saint Joseph Provost Michelle Kalis, Ph.D.