Pre-Pharmacy
Gain the science foundation for success in pharmacy school
The Pre-Pharmacy program at Kentucky Wesleyan College prepares students for admission to pharmacy school through rigorous coursework in biology, chemistry, and health sciences. With faculty mentorship, laboratory experience, and pre-professional advising, graduates are equipped for rewarding careers in pharmaceutical and healthcare fields.
Pre-Pharmacy Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Pre-Pharmacy track provides the academic and experiential preparation needed to excel in pharmacy school. Students complete coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology while strengthening analytical and problem-solving skills. Faculty mentors and pre-professional advisors work closely with students to align coursework with pharmacy school prerequisites and prepare for the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT), where required. Engaged learning includes advanced labs, research projects, and service opportunities that connect science learning to patient care. Shadowing pharmacists and interning in healthcare or retail pharmacy settings provide valuable professional experience and networking. With this comprehensive preparation, KWC graduates enter pharmacy school with confidence and a strong scientific foundation.
3+4 PharmD Partnership
Kentucky Wesleyan College partners with the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy to offer a 3+4 Pharmacy program, allowing students to complete three years at KWC before transferring to pharmacy school to begin the Doctor of Pharmacy program. This accelerated pathway helps students save time and tuition while still receiving the personalized, strong liberal arts and science foundation students expect at KWC. Courses in biology, chemistry, and health sciences provide rigorous preparation for pharmacy school requirements, while faculty advisors guide students through the admission process. This program is ideal for students seeking a focused, efficient path to a career in pharmacy
Career Paths
Pharmacist – Pharmacists dispense medications, counsel patients on proper use, and ensure safe, effective treatment. They are critical members of healthcare teams in hospitals, retail settings, and clinics.
Clinical Pharmacist Specialist – Clinical pharmacists work directly with physicians and patients in hospitals or healthcare systems, tailoring medication therapies for complex medical conditions.
Pharmaceutical Research Scientist – Research scientists in the pharmaceutical field develop new drugs, test treatments, and improve therapies. They often work in labs for universities, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative – Sales representatives educate healthcare providers about medications and therapies. They combine communication skills with scientific knowledge to promote pharmaceutical products.
Public Health Pharmacist – Public health pharmacists design and implement programs that improve medication access and education for communities, often working in government or nonprofit settings.
Pharmacy Administrator – Administrators manage operations in hospitals or retail pharmacy chains, overseeing staff, budgets, and compliance to ensure efficient and safe delivery of services.
Pre-Pharmacy Program Requirements
Pre-Pharmacy is a pre-professional track that integrates with majors such as Biology or Chemistry. Students complete prerequisite coursework for pharmacy school, including General Biology I & II, General Chemistry I & II, Organic Chemistry I & II, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and Calculus. Additional electives such as Biochemistry and Genetics are strongly recommended. Laboratory courses emphasize technical skill development and scientific analysis. A pre-professional advisor helps students plan coursework, secure pharmacy-related experiences, and prepare for the PCAT or pharmacy school applications. With rigorous academics and practical exposure, this track provides the foundation for success in pharmacy school and the pharmaceutical profession.