The VCU School of Pharmacy began as part of the Medical College of Virginia (MCV). In 1913, it merged with the University College of Medicine, also in Richmond. Initially, the curriculum focused on preparing drugs, botany and basic health skills. At that time, the program was just two years long, and a high school diploma was not required for admission. As the only pharmacy school in Virginia, it attracted professors from across the state and quickly established itself as a cornerstone of pharmaceutical education.

Over the decades, the VCU School of Pharmacy has expanded its curriculum and facilities to meet the evolving demands of the field. Much has changed since the school’s founding over 125 years ago. Where once the student body was exclusively white men, the institution now more clearly reflects Virginia’s diverse population. The majority of pharmacy students at VCU are women, reflecting a nationwide shift in the profession, and the school actively recruits underrepresented minorities. This commitment to diversity enriches the learning environment and prepares students to serve a wide range of communities.

The VCU School of Pharmacy has produced many trailblazers who have significantly impacted the profession. Hilda Saunders Lewter became the first woman to earn a pharmacist license in Virginia in 1920, paving the way for future generations of women in pharmacy. William S. Cooper, the first Black graduate in 1957, made lasting contributions to his community as "the people's pharmacist." These pioneers broke barriers and set high standards for excellence and community service, inspiring current and future students.

Today, the VCU School of Pharmacy continues to lead in education, research and community health initiatives. Students are involved in groundbreaking research, such as epigenetics and drug metabolism, and participate in experiential learning that has a real-world impact. The school played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, administering thousands of vaccinations and training health care providers. This hands-on experience equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to address contemporary health challenges.

New programs and initiatives aim to prepare students for diverse roles in health care and research. Emphasizing flexibility and adaptability, the curriculum allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. The VCU School of Pharmacy remains committed to its mission of improving health and serving the community, building on its legacy of excellence as it looks forward to the future.