2026 Best Online Pharmacy Schools
Find out which are the best online pharmacy schools that receive the strongest feedback from student reviewers.
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Pharmacy doctoral programs online combine advanced study in medications, patient care, and clinical decision-making with flexible coursework. Student feedback can help you compare how each online pharmacy school handles the demands of professional pharmacy training.
Key Takeaways:
- Creighton University is #1 among students, who rate its pharmacy doctorate a 4.36 out of 5 rating. It also reports the second-highest salary among graduates.
- Among the best pharmacy schools online, median salaries span ~$134,500 to $144,000, and that's only five years after graduating.
Following the list, we share guidance from Dr. Orum-Alexander (PharmD), Dean of Pharmacy at Marshall B. Ketchum University.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team verifies that only institutionally accredited schools offering at least one fully online doctoral in pharmacy degree make the cut. On top of that, schools must also have at least five verified student reviews and an aggregate rating of 2.5+ on a five-point scale. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize the most relevant student feedback by starting with reviews tied to the exact program and degree level. If too few doctoral in pharmacy qualify, we gradually expand the review pool to include related programs or other degree levels, while preserving the most program-specific results at the top of the list. This process continues until all eligible review data has been considered.
2026 Best Online Pharmacy Schools
| Rank | School | Review Rating | Recommendation | 100% | $46,021 | $142,708 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duquesne University | 4.03 / 5 | 75% | $70,822 | $134,511 | ||
| Shenandoah University | 3.69 / 5 | 87% | $12,417 | $138,662 | ||
| Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine | 3.57 / 5 | 91% | $30,950 | $139,597 | ||
| Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences | 3.46 / 5 | 79% | $20,898 | $144,001 | ||
| The University of Findlay | 3.38 / 5 | 80% | $42,740 | $134,928 | ||
| St. John Fisher University | 2.92 / 5 | 100% | $52,774 | $137,872 |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Students rated this the #1 online pharmacy doctorate program in the country.
- Creighton says it launched the first accredited web-based distance PharmD pathway in the United States in 2001, giving its online pharmacy program a notably long operating history.
- Distance students complete the same core curriculum and clinical expectations as campus students while making only five required campus visits during the four-year program.
4 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Pharmacy Degrees
Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions has had an extremely positive impact on my future. The faculty members and guest lecturers are all teaching because they have a passion for it and want to prepare the next generation of health... Read More
It's a great school with a diverse student population. It's known in Hawaii for its dental, medical and pharmacy schools.
The online pharmD program is extremely challenging but opens a door to many that would otherwise be impossible. The cost and annual trips to Omaha for labs are a negative. The quality of the education is outstanding.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Creighton University are overwhelmingly favorable, driven by high ratings and repeated praise for accessible professors, small classes, and a close-knit culture that feels personal rather than anonymous. Many say the academic experience is rigorous, confidence-building, and especially strong at preparing them for graduate study, clinical work, or research, with several noting lasting relationships with faculty and classmates. Online learners also describe unusually responsive support and flexibility. Criticism centers on steep tuition, limited funding, uneven diversity, and a few sharply negative accounts of rigid grading policies, unsupportive administration, and weak work-life balance in certain programs.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 1,265 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $46,021
- Out-of-State Tuition: $46,021
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $142,708
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 83%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Duquesne offers both a standard four-year option and a six-year extended pathway for its online PharmD program.
- The online PharmD follows a structured synchronous schedule with one live class day each week.
- Students complete limited campus residencies, including a three-day visit during the first year and a weeklong May session, with summer sessions emphasizing hands-on clinical training.
1 Student Review for Doctoral in Pharmacy Degrees
I was in one of the first online pathways at Duquesne for pharmacy, so they were still working out the program logistics. Overall, I feel like I received a quality education, I was accepted into a major academic hospital for a PGY1 Acute Care residency... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Duquesne as a university with clear strengths in close faculty access, small classes, and a campus setting that feels connected to Pittsburgh without being overwhelming. Many students valued professors who knew them by name, offered practical guidance, and created strong research, networking, study-abroad, or career-preparation opportunities. Several also praised updated facilities, supportive advising, and a welcoming community. The sharpest criticism centers on some health-related graduate experiences, where reviewers describe disorganization, inconsistent standards, limited support securing clinical placements, and too much self-teaching. Cost is another recurring concern, along with limited diversity, parking frustrations, and uneven technology or administrative support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 542 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $70,822
- Out-of-State Tuition: $70,822
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $134,511
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Shenandoah’s Nontraditional Doctor of Pharmacy pathway is designed for U.S.-licensed, practicing pharmacists who want to earn a PharmD while remaining employed full time.
- Online PharmD students complete most coursework asynchronously within a cohort model, with recorded lectures, team-based learning activities, and other online content.
- The program requires only one on-site visit: a capstone clinical skills assessment near the end of the didactic sequence.
6 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Pharmacy Degrees
There are students from all over the U.S. and international students here. The pharmacy program is small enough to get to know instructors and they will help you with anything you are struggling with. The curriculum incorporates physical assessment skills... Read More
Shenandoah University School of Pharmacy is accredited. The faculties are extremely helpful. The cons of pharmacy program is high cost of tuition since Shenandoah is a private school. However, Virginia Tuition Grant helps a part of tuition.
Shenandoah University has very friendly and accessible professors that always welcome you to ask any questions. The only issue is that some classes are broadcasted from its sister campus. It is difficult to focus in the classroom with other peers when... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Shenandoah University as a place where close faculty access, small classes, and demanding coursework often translate into strong career preparation. Many reviewers say professors are unusually available, supportive, and invested, and they value practical training, real-world scenarios, and a collaborative atmosphere that builds confidence and independence. Flexibility in hybrid or distance formats also appeals to working adults. Still, praise is tempered by recurring complaints about disorganization, limited housing, sparse transportation, and high tuition with thin financial aid. The sharpest criticism centers on some nursing experiences, where reviewers report poor support, inconsistent teaching, and, in a few cases, hostile treatment.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 646 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $12,417
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,417
- Program Length: 42 months
- Median Earnings: $138,662
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 67%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- LECOM’s Distance Education Pathway is a four-year online PharmD designed for U.S. citizens and permanent residents, with students required to remain in the United States while completing the program.
- The curriculum introduces pharmacotherapeutics and clinical exposure in the first year through a system-based sequence.
- LECOM states that its PharmD pathways, including the distance option, meet the educational requirements for pharmacist licensure in all U.S. states (although graduates must still complete state-specific licensing steps).
4 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Pharmacy Degrees
I attend LECOM's Bradenton campus, located in Bradenton, FL. I am very pleased with my decision of attending LECOM's pharmacy program. In my opinion, the academic staff that is employed there are beyond great. The professors are knowledgeable in their... Read More
I think the professors all do a very good job at being available to explain concepts more if needed. There are also student tutors to help. The workload can be very strenuous but pharmacy school is supposed to be challenging. The cost of living near school... Read More
My graduate program offers a lot of interaction with the community and being involved in what is going on in other programs as well. I enjoy knowing that the Med students and Dental students are doing and working along side them to offer the most efficient... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine are largely favorable, with many describing a demanding but worthwhile experience shaped by supportive professors, approachable staff, and small-campus access that makes it easier to get help. Several reviewers praise flexible or problem-based formats for building independence, time management, and clinical reasoning rather than passive memorization. Affordability appears in two different ways: some value comparatively low tuition and reasonable living costs, while others note that certain Florida-area housing can be expensive. Complaints focus on inconsistent administration, strict professionalism rules, limited entertainment nearby, and one severe outlier alleging hostile faculty culture and inadequate support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 148 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $30,950
- Out-of-State Tuition: $30,950
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $139,597
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- MCPHS’s Non-Traditional PharmD is designed for U.S.-licensed pharmacists, so the curriculum builds on existing professional practice.
- This doctoral pharmacy program is part time and 99% online, with only one required visit to the Boston campus while students continue working as pharmacists.
- All School of Pharmacy students are automatically enrolled in the Leadership in Pharmacy Education (LiPhE) Institute, which provides leadership development.
7 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Pharmacy Degrees
My time at MCPHS was informative and engaging. I feel like the school really prepares you for your future career. Although they don鈥檛 really help you once you鈥檝e graduated in transitioning, I felt prepared for life after graduating. The labs and rotations... Read More
I think the school had a lot to offer. It was in a great location right in the city of Boston, which was great for experiencing a college like feel. The classes were challenging, but the professors were there to help. I also liked that they found my rotations... Read More
MCPHS is a specific kind of institution. The staff is by far the most caring, personable group. Its difficult but its worth it. I have yet to graduate but Im looking forward to it. If you love healthcare so much that your'e willing to study as much as... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences skew positive, with many praising supportive professors, approachable advisors, strong clinical and rotation placements, and a rigorous education that feels career-focused and worthwhile. Flexible online options are valued for fitting around work and family, while small-campus settings often feel close-knit despite urban locations. Several reviews also highlight responsive faculty, mentorship, and access to technology or outside resources. Criticism centers on inconsistency: some describe large classes, disorganized administration, high staff turnover, expensive living or tuition, and poorly structured curricula. The harshest accounts portray uncaring faculty, unsafe surroundings, and admissions or grading practices that feel unfair.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 646 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $20,898
- Out-of-State Tuition: $20,898
- Program Length: 30 months
- Median Earnings: $144,001
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 62%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray The University of Findlay as a place where many students feel known personally rather than lost in the crowd. Supportive professors, small classes, quick communication, and strong advising appear repeatedly, along with hands-on learning, internships, and practical preparation that some say translated into career success. Several reviewers also valued flexible scheduling and accelerated paths that let them keep working or finish faster. The main complaints center on price, uneven value, and limited institutional resources compared with larger universities. A smaller number of reviews raise sharper concerns about weak treatment-focused instruction, inexperienced faculty in some areas, and, in isolated cases, poor administrative fairness and support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.3 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Pharmacy Degrees
The University of Findlay has provided me with a truly nurturing environment to pursue my Pharm D degree. All of my professors are more than willing to help with study tips, homework assignments or even life or career advice. I have been able to excel... Read More
This program is fantastic! It is very thorough and professional. The only real con is the cost due to the university being a private institution.
Pros of the pharmacy program at the University of Findlay are the hands-on experience you gain, the benefit of it being a 0-6 program where it is only 6 years to graduate with your PharmD degree, and also the quality of education you receive. A con of... Read More
- Online Enrollment: 257 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $42,740
- Out-of-State Tuition: $42,740
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $134,928
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 58%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray St. John Fisher University as a small, relationship-driven campus where professors are unusually accessible and invested in long-term success. Many describe rigorous coursework that feels worthwhile because it translates directly into practice through labs, rotations, technology, and applied learning. That close-knit atmosphere is a major draw, with several reviewers saying they felt known personally rather than treated like a number. Critiques center less on academics than on cost, limited diversity, transportation challenges, and a suburban setting some found isolating or overpriced. A few also mention scheduling constraints, heavy workloads, and occasional technology issues during high-stakes exams.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.4 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Pharmacy Degrees
Fisher had really great teachers who were dedicated to my learning. I had great advisors along the way who helped me get to where I am today in my career. The class sizes were appropriate for the program, not too big where the teachers don't know you... Read More
St. John Fisher College is a beautiful private school in the suburbs of Rochester, NY. Being a Fisher Cardinal is an amazing experience. The school is small, but there is always something to do. There are many intramural sports leagues all year long where... Read More
Overall, the pharmacy program at St. John Fisher College is a wonderful, intimate environment. The courses are challenging and the teachers utilize the most up-to-date technology available. The faculty truly care about individual student success.
- Online Enrollment: 714 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $52,774
- Out-of-State Tuition: $52,774
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $137,872
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Compare the Best Online Pharmacy Schools
The graph above shows that median earnings are fairly tightly clustered across these seven pharmacy schools. For PharmD students, the bigger question is what type of training supports the pharmacy career they want to build. Practice setting, geography, specialization, and postgraduate training can all shape future earnings, while program structure determines how students reach that point.
A relatively small earnings difference may matter less than clinical rotation opportunities, licensure preparation, or whether a pathway is intended for new pharmacy students versus already licensed pharmacists. Use earnings as one outcome signal, then weigh the educational path behind it.
Recommendation rate and review rating answer related but different questions. A student may recommend a demanding PharmD program because the overall experience helped them reach their professional goals even if they were less enthusiastic about particular parts of the school overall, which is why the two measures do not always move together. That distinction is especially useful in online pharmacy education, where campus visits, live-class schedules, clinical requirements, and compatibility with full-time work can substantially affect the student experience.
The graph above is therefore most useful as a signal of whether verified reviewers felt the overall trade-offs were worthwhile, while the five-point rating in the main list above adds another layer of detail about how positively they viewed the experience itself.
Standout Features of the Best Online PharmD Programs: An Editorial Analysis
Clinical Placements Closer to Home
The University of Findlay
Findlay takes a more active role in one of the hardest logistical pieces of an online PharmD: securing experiential placements. Its placement team helps students identify rotation sites and preceptors within driving distance of their home. This level of personalized support is important because the online PharmD curriculum includes 300 hours of Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences and 1,440 hours of Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences.
2,000 Hours in Pharmacy Practice
St. John Fisher University
St. John Fisher places heavy emphasis on experiential pharmacy training for a distance-accessible PharmD. Students complete 42 weeks of clinical rotations totaling about 2,000 hours across IPPE and APPE experiences, while the online pathway allows those rotations to take place at sites near their own communities.
A PharmD That Builds on Years Already Spent in Practice
Shenandoah University
Shenandoah鈥檚 Nontraditional PharmD makes prior pharmacy practice part of the degree structure. The program is restricted to U.S.-licensed practicing pharmacists, and eligible students can document previous professional experience through prior-life portfolios to satisfy up to two of the three required clinical experiences.
What Students Should Know Before Choosing an Online Pharm.D. Program 鈥� Advice From Dr. Orum-Alexander, Dean of Pharmacy
Dean, College of Pharmacy
How are online PharmD programs adapting to changes in healthcare delivery, such as telepharmacy and remote patient monitoring?
"Online and remote PharmD programs have been emerging across the country to provide greater accessibility to pharmacy education. Pharmacy programs leverage videoconferencing, learning management systems, and other technology to promote student engagement in synchronous or asynchronous settings. Other technological tools such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence can be used to simulate laboratory and clinical settings.
Of course, hands-on or face-to-face interactions are still required, but the use of technology in the pharmacy school setting helps prepare students for the use of technology in remote pharmacy employment opportunities. The use of telepharmacy and remote patient monitoring are becoming more common, particularly in the ambulatory care pharmacy setting."
Online and remote PharmD programs have been emerging across the country to provide greater accessibility to pharmacy education.
What professional competencies set successful pharmacy graduates apart?
"Communication is the non-negotiable professional competency that every pharmacist must possess. Pharmacy schools, regardless of program type, must prepare future pharmacists for pharmacy practice, which requires that pharmacists communicate not only with patients and other pharmacy professionals but also with other members of the healthcare team. In some settings, pharmacy administrators communicate with healthcare professionals and other executives.
Another vital competency is critical thinking. Access to information through technological systems is readily available. However, the effective pharmacist must exercise judgment in determining the value of the information, as well as understanding how to apply information in a given setting or situation."
What kinds of digital tools or lab simulations are effectively teaching compounding, dosage calculations, and drug interactions?
"Although there are computer software programs that can simulate pharmacy labs, pharmacy faculty often employ the use of videos for demonstration. Students can also provide evidence of their level of competency by submitting videos as assignments. Virtual reality provides a more immersive simulated experience."
What guidance would you offer students preparing for the NAPLEX or state licensure after completing an online pharmacy program?
"The guidance is the same regardless of the type of PharmD program a student pursues. To be successful on the NAPLEX and other licensure exams, students must study. Preparation for licensure exams should begin when students enter the program. Throughout the program, students must study for retention in order to be prepared. Licensure exams cover a great deal of material, so the best advice is to study effectively."
EXPERT TIP
"Students entering pharmacy should take the time to explore all of the options the career has to offer. As the profession of pharmacy continues to evolve, there will be even more opportunities for pharmacists. Exploring career opportunities early increases engagement in the profession, fostering a sense of enthusiasm and pride in the field."
FAQs About Choosing the Best Online Doctor of Pharmacy Program
Can You Really Get Your Doctorate in Pharmacy Online?
Yes, it is definitely possible to attend an online pharmacy school in order to earn your PharmD. Several pharmacy graduate programs at accredited colleges and universities have created online pharmacy schools. Students complete coursework online, and with the help of program coordinators, they can find opportunities to complete their clinical practice hours at facilities near their home.
Some programs offer nonclinical pharmacy classes online, some require students to attend brief workshops on campus, and others are considered hybrid, meaning coursework is delivered through a combination of online and on-campus learning activities. Students should research this aspect of each program thoroughly before selecting the best one to suit their needs.
What Should You Know Before Choosing an Online Doctor of Pharmacy Program?
In order to become a licensed pharmacist, students must complete a PharmD program, which is considered a professional doctorate program on the same level as those for medical doctors and dentists.
The advanced coursework in this type of doctoral program is designed to prepare students to pass the licensing exam. Topics include biochemistry, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmacokinetics, pathology, immunology, and more. PharmD students are also required to complete a specified number of clinical practice hours.
How Long Are Online PharmD Programs?
Although many online PharmD programs are designed to be completed in four years of part-time study, some students require up to six years to complete all graduation requirements. Most of these doctorate programs are geared toward students who are working full time, so there are often only two classes per term. Also, some students opt for additional one- or two-year residencies after completing graduate school if they want to specialize in a particular subfield of pharmacology, such as geriatrics, cardiology, or infectious diseases. However, some online pharmacy degree programs allow enrollees to take full-time course loads and graduate in two to three years.
Programs typically require the completion of 60-70 credit hours in total. The first half of these credits are completed in the program's first two years. They are typically online "didactic" classes, meaning coursework involves reading texts and materials, viewing or reading lectures, and participating in online activities with classmates. The other half of the credits are devoted to experiential clinical practice conducted at pharmacies or other relevant healthcare facilities, and students often need two or more years to fulfill the required number of pharmacy practice hours.
Should You Choose a PharmD or a PhD in Pharmacology?
A PharmD is distinctly different from a PhD in pharmacology. While both are doctoral degrees, they prepare students for different career paths. The PharmD degree is the right choice for students who want to become licensed, practicing pharmacists. The PhD in pharmacology is the best choice for students who want to enter the field of pharmacological research and pharmaceutical development. While there are some similarities in the topics covered in the coursework for each online pharmacology degree, a pharmacology PhD program is more focused on research and requires a dissertation.
What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Pharmacy?
Becoming a licensed pharmacist is just one of several career options for individuals interested in the pharmaceutical industry. The following are some of the career paths students can choose from, along with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics ():
- prepare prescriptions and advise patients concerning any potential side effects or drug interactions they may experience while taking medication. They also supervise pharmacy technicians and interns, and they may have inventory management duties for the pharmacy in which they work. Pharmacists must have a professional, post-graduate doctoral degree and a professional state license in order to practice.
- The BLS classifies PhD-level , and they are involved in the development of new medications. They may conduct clinical trials and testing of new medications on animals and humans. Researchers may also work to improve the drug manufacturing process. The minimum educational requirement for pharmaceutical researchers is a bachelor's degree in either pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, or another related field. Many researchers go on to complete a master's or PhD in pharmacology for advancement in their careers.
- Professors, or , working in four-year colleges and universities typically need a PharmD and several years of work experience as a pharmacist in order to train future pharmacists. At this level, educators usually begin as assistant professors, and then they advance to associate professors and finally full professors.
Which Type of Pharmacist Career Is Right for You?
Aside from pharmacy professors and researchers, there are four :
- The most common occupation is a community pharmacist. These are the individuals working in your local drug store that dispense medication. They may provide customers with information about over-the-counter medication, address concerns about side effects, and 鈥� in some cases 鈥� they may administer vaccines or flu shots.
- Behind the scenes, you'll find the pharmaceutical industry pharmacists who work for the drug companies. This role includes conducting drug trials through research and development while maintaining quality assurance and adhering to safety regulations.
- If you desire to work in a health care setting, like a hospital, clinical pharmacists recommend medication directly to patients. They also keep track of doses and medication schedules.
- Similarly, consultant pharmacists work with hospital administrators to recommend medications and provide services that may improve their pharmacy services.
What Licensure Requirements Should You Consider Before Choosing a PharmD Program?
All 50 US states require pharmacists to have licenses in order to practice. Upon completing an online PharmD program, graduates must take and pass two exams to obtain a license to practice in the state where they reside.
The required exams are the (NAPLEX), which tests prospective pharmacists on the skills and knowledge required for the career, and the (MPJE), which tests prospective pharmacists on the pharmacy laws specific to the state in which they are seeking licensing.
Some pharmacists may also choose to obtain certification in advanced areas of specialization. Certification in such areas as oncology, nutrition, pediatric pharmacy, nuclear pharmacy, and others are offered through the .
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Doctorate in Pharmacy?
Competition for enrollment in the best PharmD programs is high. from the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education indicate that approximately 15,000 new students have entered doctorate pharmacy programs in each of the most recent academic years, and approximately 14,000 of those have earned PharmD degrees. This same report, compiled from data contributed by the 144 US schools offering pharmacy degrees, shows that these schools received about 50,000 applications for PharmD programs.
The admission requirements for most online pharmacy programs stipulate that applicants must have earned a pre-pharmacy bachelor's degree or something similar from an accredited, four-year college or university. Many programs also require applicants to have taken a number of prerequisite courses before enrolling in the PharmD program. Some of the more common prerequisites are biology, chemistry, physics, organic chemistry, statistics, and calculus. Additionally, students must have earned a GPA of 2.0 or better in these courses to qualify.
When applying for an online doctor of pharmacy program, applicants must submit an application form. The following items may also be requested:
- Official transcripts from all previous colleges attended
- Test scores from standardized tests, such as the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- One or more letters of recommendation
- A personal statement outlining the student's goals and motivation for enrolling in the program
- A resume or curriculum vitae
What Accreditation Should You Look for in an Online Pharmacy Program?
Prior to enrolling in an online pharmacist program, prospective students should confirm that the program has been accredited by the (ACPE).
A PharmD program must undergo an extensive, multi-year evaluation to become accredited. Accreditation ensures consistency across all programs by documenting that each curriculum, faculty, and learning outcomes meet the same national standards.
Choosing an ACPE-accredited program is important for several reasons. Not only does it assure students they're enrolled in a credible degree program that meets high academic standards, it is a requirement for obtaining pharmacist licensure. For a list of accredited online pharmacy programs, students can visit the or the .
How Can You Decide if an Online PharmD Degree Is Worth It?
While obtaining a PharmD degree is a requirement for a career as a licensed pharmacist, students may consider multiple factors when deciding whether to pursue this degree online. Students should weigh the various advantages and disadvantages of online PharmD programs in light of their own circumstances, resources, and goals.
Potential Benefits
- Pharmacists often earn six-figure incomes. Once they've obtained a license to practice, pharmacists can expect a median annual salary of $140,910. However, according to the , it's important to note that while the highest 10% of earners bring home about $174,230, the lowest 10% earn approximately $99,290.
- This degree may allow for flexibility when deciding on a career path. Those who've earned PharmD degrees have several career options, from working in ambulatory care as a licensed pharmacist to being an unlicensed medical writer in the pharmaceutical industry. In the growing field of online health care, pharmacists may even be able to work at home via .
- Going to school online gives students more choices. Pursuing a pharmacy degree online allows full-time, working students to choose from a broader selection of schools without having to relocate and find a new job.
Potential Drawbacks
- Completing the educational requirements to become a pharmacist is a fairly long and expensive process. Licensed pharmacists may spend about eight years earning a bachelor's and PharmD degree. For students interested in the field, there are careers that don't require an advanced degree or the time commitment that goes with it. For example, pharmacy technicians and pharmaceutical sales reps may hold certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor's degrees.
- Working as a pharmacist can be demanding. Some may find that the need for critical attention to detail is stressful, especially considering the responsibilities that range from ensuring a patient's safety and well-being to properly fulfilling corporate mandates.
Our list of online pharmacy schools each host an online doctorate pharmacy program to advance your expertise in the pharmaceutical field. These programs blend advanced pharmacology, clinical practice, and patient-centered care to equip you with the skills needed for impactful careers in healthcare. Graduates of an online pharmacy school can find opportunities in leadership, research, and specialized practice areas.
Student Reviews of Online Pharmacy Programs
D鈥橸ouville University Pharmacy Program 鈥� A Warning to Future Students
As a former student in D鈥橸ouville鈥檚 PharmD program, I feel compelled to speak out so others can make informed decisions before enrolling. What I experienced over the course of my time in this program was not just disappointing; it was disheartening, inequitable, and at times, deeply unethical.
Despite promising equal support for all students, the school consistently treated its online students as second-class citizens. Our lectures... Read More
Accommodations for disabilities were ignored when it mattered most. I was granted extra time on exams due to a documented medical diagnosis, yet this was flat-out denied during critical in-person testing. When I raised this issue, it was brushed aside with no explanation, no apology, and no alternative, a direct violation of my legal rights and a personal betrayal of trust.
Worse, the school failed to secure clinical rotation sites, something they promised when we enrolled. When placements fell through, we were told we鈥檇 simply be delayed an entire year in graduating (as if that was some "minor" inconvenience). This threat hung over our heads while we scrambled to fix a problem that wasn鈥檛 ours to solve.
But the most devastating moment came when I was falsely accused of cheating, based on a single letter from a student I had previously refused to help cheat. No evidence was ever provided. None of the other students named were even questioned. I was dismissed, and when I appealed, I was judged by a biased panel that included faculty with personal conflicts of interest. I was never given a fair chance to defend myself.
This program does not protect its students. It does not listen. It does not lead with integrity. And it does not deserve the trust of students who give everything to pursue a career in pharmacy.
If you are considering D鈥橸ouville, ask the hard questions. Demand transparency. Speak to current students in all learning tracks, not just the ones hand-picked for tours. You deserve an education built on respect, support, and fairness. I sincerely hope future students never have to endure what I did.
Review Date: 6/13/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Incoming pharmacy year 1 student originally from Texas. Xavier university of Louisiana feels like home. So many welcoming people at this university that are always willing to help. The university offers a great amount of diversity and culture. Cannot be happier with my decision of choosing this university to enter my future career.
Review Date: 9/16/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
There are many pros and cons to the distance pathway PharmD program at Creighton University. The obvious pro is that you don't have to move to attend classes on campus, which is perfect for those students who have families and/or jobs and are unable to move. Another pro is that the distance cohort becomes a tight knit group, even though we are spread out all over the US. Additionally, the school has many supports in place for distance students. The cons consist of missing out on campus activities,... Read More
Review Date: 10/20/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Awesome opportunity provided by UCdenver for me to complete a lifelong desire of post graduate education as a working adult. This program has highly qualified instructors. Tremendous improvements in technology used to deliver online lectures last couple of years. provides accommodation for clinical rotation sites a well as placement in and around Denver.; for any student willing to come to Colorado CONS As a distant online student, I feel I would have benefited from annual program review/advise before... Read More
Review Date: 11/20/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The online pharmD program is extremely challenging but opens a door to many that would otherwise be impossible. The cost and annual trips to Omaha for labs are a negative. The quality of the education is outstanding.
Review Date: 4/2/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
UF was a great school! Love the camaraderie and academics are top notch.
Review Date: 8/19/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
It's a great school with a diverse student population. It's known in Hawaii for its dental, medical and pharmacy schools.
Review Date: 1/3/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great learning environment with supportive faculty and hands-on experiences. Strong emphasis on practical skills and research opportunities. Challenging but rewarding, preparing students well for pharmacy careers. Friendly community and modern facilities.
Review Date: 12/6/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
I was in one of the first online pathways at Duquesne for pharmacy, so they were still working out the program logistics. Overall, I feel like I received a quality education, I was accepted into a major academic hospital for a PGY1 Acute Care residency and have been offered multiple positions in my field. I do think more care could have gone into ensuring on-site clinical labs aligned with the BMT classes we were currently taking- I was rather hard to do a cardiology lab when we had not yet had that... Read More
Review Date: 5/15/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My school was very good in terms of creating a plan for the courses and requirements needed to graduate from this major. At the beginning of my college year, the school had resources for my program; however, especially during COVID times, a lot of resources were cut out.
Review Date: 5/7/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My school was very good in terms of creating a plan for the courses and requirements needed to graduate from this major. At the beginning of my college year, the school had resources for my program; however, especially during COVID times, a lot of resources were cut out.
Review Date: 5/7/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall, the program for pharmacists was very well developed. It set us up for our careers in terms of the courses that we had to learn as they have gone through an accrediation process to ensure that we develop into knowledgeable professionals as we enter into the field. Faculty was knowledgeable and ensured that we learned the proper content and offered an aboundant amount of help. Rotations had lots of variety to cater to students' interests.
Review Date: 5/6/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Wingate University is a great place to further your education. The staff and professors are highly experienced and knowledgeable, they do their best to help students as much as possible. After viewing various colleges, I knew that Wingate University was the school for me with small classroom sizes, which allow for more professor and student interactions.
Review Date: 6/24/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am blessed to be admitted into UMKC School of Pharmacy class of 2019. It is going o be a hard program, i am station at the satellite site in Columbia, Mo so the learning experience will be a whole new ball game. Pros- the teachers care, small class size and alot of opportunities to practice material. Cons- out of state, new area, video teaching instead of classroom-based teaching
Review Date: 8/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Attending the University of South Carolina for pharmaceutical studies was some of the best but also most stressful years of my life. Being surrounded by friends either in the same degree as me or seeking out different education paths kept me grounded and engaged in both life and academics. I was able to attend classes, eat at the cafeteria, attend numerous events and sports games, and party, all steps away from my apartment. The professors were approachable and educated. All together, a terrific... Read More
Review Date: 5/6/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Ferris State University is a great school to pursue a degree in pharmacy. The faculty is personable and genuinely cares about the success of every student. The pharmacy curriculum spans four years and can seem overwhelming at times. However, many of the staff members understand exactly what the students are going through and will dedicate their spare time to helping students cope with the stresses. Ferris State also offers the dual enrollment Pharma/MBA which I am currently enrolled in. The program... Read More
Review Date: 6/24/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Cedarville University has great graduate programs and helps students find jobs in whatever areas they are interested in.
Review Date: 12/15/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of South Florida College of Pharmacy is overall a great program and I am honored to be part of this school!
Review Date: 8/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I absolutely love the school of pharmacy at USF. I think the curriculum and professors are amazing. Everyone wants to see you excel and do your best. The faculty and staff are always available to assist you when needed. The only complaint I have is regarding the surrounding neighborhood, however, that is outside of the university's control. The university actually warns new students about certain areas when shopping for apartments, which I found extremely helpful since I was completely relocating... Read More
Review Date: 1/1/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
A very expensive program, but in my case, so worth the effort. The job satisfaction I expect will be worth it all.
Review Date: 7/7/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No