Dual Degree Program

Are you a highly motivated and qualified pharmacy student, interested in research in the Pharmaceutical Sciences or who wants to obtain additional business, public health or gerontology experience?

The Dual Degree program takes advantage of efficiencies in both the professional and graduate programs while maintaining sufficient rigor, scope, and depth.

Currently, the following dual degrees are offered jointly with the VCU School of Business, VCU College of Health Professions and VCU School of Population Health:

Pharm.D./Ph.D

This program combines the highest degrees available in pharmacy and research education. Graduates attain strong research and analysis capabilities in addition to their clinical skills.

Completion Time:

2-3 years in addition to the 4-year Pharm.D. degree (6 - 7 years total)

Career Opportunities:

Prepares individuals for opportunities as a scientist and clinician. Many of the highest level officials in government, academia, consulting, and industry have Ph.D’s. The skills associated with this degree are highly sought by employers. Career opportunities are global.

Learn more about the Pharm.D./Ph.D. program, then contact Dr. Phillip Gerk if you have further questions.

Pharm.D./M.B.A.

This program combines the PharmD with the Masters in Business Administration.   Graduates receive training in finance, accounting, marketing, management, and other fields of business. View the Pharm.D./M.B.A bulletin to see more up to date information.

Completion Time:

1 -2 years in addition to the 4-year Pharm.D. degree (5 - 6 years total)

Career Opportunities:

Prepares individuals for managerial positions in any business including pharmacy and health care. Careers include director of pharmacy, health system management, corporate chain pharmacy management, entrepreneurial business opportunities, pharmaceutical industry management, and governmental positions.

Contact Dr. David Holdford to learn more or read more about Pharm.D./M.B.A.

Pharm.D./M.P.H.

This program combines the Pharm.D. with the Master's in Public Health.  Graduates attain additional skills in population health care and data analytics. View the Pharm.D./M.P.H. bulletin to see more up to date information.

Completion Time:

1 year in addition to the 4-year Pharm.D. degree (5 Years total)

Career Opportunities:

Prepares individuals for pharmacy careers with a population health focus and for leadership roles at the local, state and national levels.  Graduates gain expertise in conducting research in hospital- and community-based settings.

Contact Dr. Pramit Nadpara to learn more or read more about Pharm.D./M.P.H.

Pharm.D./Certificate in Aging Studies

This program combines the Pharm.D. with the graduate certificate in Aging Studies in the Department of Gerontology.  Graduates receive education in social, cultural, psychological, cognitive, and biological aspects of aging in an interdisciplinary environment. View the Pharm.D./Certificate in Aging Studies bulletin to see more up to date information.

Completion Time:

No additional time to the 4-year Pharm.D. degree (4 years total)

Career Opportunities:

Prepares individuals to better care for an aging population in all healthcare settings. Diverse careers are available for those with a passion to serve the elder generation.

Contact Dr. Krista Donohoe to learn more or read more about Pharm.D./Certificate of Aging Studies [PDF].