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The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program is committed to provide a distinctive undergraduate educational experience that prepares PharmD students during their undergraduate studies for clinical and non-clinical pharmacy practices, and postgraduate studies and specialisation. The PharmD program is a comprehensive type of study that encompasses both scientific and humanistic aspects of pharmacy. This program provides a strong foundation for continuous professional development in the field of pharmacy.
The curriculum is interdisciplinary, thematic, and horizontally and vertically integrated, incorporating four themes within semester-long units of various general requirement, basic socio-behavioural, pharmaceutical clinical and advanced clinical courses.
The curriculum is designed to reflect recent changes in healthcare provider roles in Saudi Arabia and to prepare students to meet the increasing demand for pharmaceutical expertise. Over the course of six years, students will build their professional competencies, develop self-direction, and enjoy academic excellence. The program aims to produce future leaders in pharmacy practice by emphasizing excellence in education, research, and community service. As medical sciences continue to evolve rapidly, it is imperative that the workforce possess the requisite skills and proficiency to fulfil the roles required. The PharmD program therefore provides a rigorous and specialized education that prepares students for a successful career in pharmacy.
The PharmD program is structured as an integrated curriculum according to the National Qualification Framework for Higher Education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia including curricular and extra-curricular activities. Its learning strategies include interactive lectures, case-based learning, Team-Based Learning (TBL), Problem-Based Leaning (PBL), tutorial sessions, assignments, flipped classrooms, research activities, together with student presentations and small-group learning supported by appropriate practical and clinical experience. Such learning activities employ various delivery strategies at both hospitals and community-based facilities to achieve the program learning outcomes in direct and indirect ways.
The assessments are constructive and recognize the development of key attributes and qualities rather than reward short-term superficial learning. Assessment is done through direct and indirect assessment methods. The direct assessment method includes written exams with different question types such as multiple choice (MCQs), extended matching (EMQs) and short and long essays. Individual and group assessment activities are evaluated via an approved rubric. These activities are assignments, student prepared presentation, poster presentation, team-based learning, problem-based learning, case-based learning, clinical portfolio, reflection, research activities, and community services activities. Laboratory reports are used to evaluate daily practical learning. Objective structured practical and clinical exams (OSPE and OSCE) are used to evaluate practical and clinical learning. On the other hand, the indirect assessment methods include various course surveys. The surveys including learning outcomes achievement, course evaluation, assessment satisfaction and OSPE/OSCE satisfaction.
Upon successful completion of the requirements for the Bachelor of Doctor of Pharmacy Program, the graduates can apply for “Pharmacy Specialist” license from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialist (SCFHS). Pharmacy Specialist may work in hospitals, clinics, community pharmacies, pharmaceutical industry, pharmaceutical companies, health insurance, Saudi Food and Drug Association, academia, MOH and drug registration. In addition, graduates may seek specializations to advance their careers through Postgraduates Studies. Also, graduates would have the knowledge, skills, and values to be eligible to apply for an academic position such “Clinical Instructor” or “Lab Supervisor”.
The current state of employment for PharmD graduates is highly promising, as the role of a pharmacy specialist is critical across a diverse range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, community pharmacies, and medical clinics. The primary duty of a pharmacy specialist is to prepare medications, ensuring that each patient receives an accurate dosage and is fully informed of the possible side effects and proper usage of the prescribed drugs. Moreover, pharmacy specialists often provide counseling to patients on the appropriate use and storage of their medications, along with managing inventory and ensuring that medications are appropriately stored and that accurate records are maintained. Beyond these fundamental duties, pharmacy specialists can also work in the pharmaceutical industry, with the option to pursue a career in scientific research. Within the Research and Development Department of the Pharmaceutical Industry or separate research institutes, pharmacy specialists may contribute their expertise as scientists or researchers. In addition, they can work in academia as part of their job. In any case, the health insurance industry, drug registrations, and Saudi FDA offer further job prospects for pharmacy specialists. Overall, the role of a pharmacy specialist is critical and multifaceted, requiring a diverse range of skills and expertise. As such, the continued growth of the role within the healthcare industry presents a vast array of promising employment opportunities for those with a PharmD degree.
It is essential that all students take advantage of the opportunity to meet with the career counselors assigned by the Student Career and Alumni Unit (SCAU) on a regular basis. Student career counseling is a critical process that enables students to gain crucial insights into their skills, abilities, and interests, as they relate to the workplace. This enables them to make informed decisions concerning their future career path. The process is highly interactive and collaborative, with a faculty staff member working closely with the student to ensure that their needs and goals are met.
