The success of Drake University PharmD graduates in the first round of the ASHP Residency Match has continued through the second and final match phase. Out of 56 participants, 49 PharmD Class of 2019 graduates have matched with a residency. Drake’s overall 87.5 percent match rate far exceeds the national average of 64.38% percent, placing the University 3rd out of 142 pharmacy programs in the U.S. and 1st among pharmacy programs located in the Midwest.
This residency placement success reflects the commitment in Drake’s pharmacy program to provide professional development experiences that result in graduates gaining a competitive edge for career placement. As a result, these students will be placed in a variety of settings including hospitals, community pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and more, opening the door to additional career opportunities. They will be spread out across the country in sixteen states.
Renae Chesnut, professor and dean of CPHS, extends her congratulations to all those who matched and those who are furthering their education. She credits the outstanding students as well as the vast career resources and guidance provided to them by the college’s faculty, staff, and preceptors. CPHS creates an environment to foster the professional development of its students.
“Drake students continue to far outperform the national average, which is particularly noteworthy as residencies have become more competitive,” Chesnut said. “Our faculty and staff provide a great deal of support for all of our students as they explore their numerous career options and fulfill our college’s vision of leading the way to a healthier world.”
In addition to ASHP residencies, seven P4 students are pursuing fellowships, one will begin a PhD program, one is entering law school, and one will be completing a non-ASHP accredited residency. While still early in the position obtainment stage, Drake’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (CPHS) can already boast that nearly 60 P4 students are pursuing post-graduate education.