The Drake University PharmD Class of 2021 graduates continue a tradition of success in the ASHP Residency Match. Out of 53 participants in 2021, 43 PharmD graduates matched with a residency. Drake’s overall 81.13 percent match rate far exceeds the national average of 64.95 percent, placing the University 1st among all Midwest private programs and 3rd among all pharmacy programs in the Midwest. Nationally, we are placed 3rd among private programs and 12th among all 142 programs.
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 18 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, several 2021 graduates are pursuing fellowships at various companies including the Iowa Pharmacy Association (IPA), Eli Lilly and Company, Novartis, and the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) Foundation, and one graduate is attending podiatric medical school. While still early in the process of obtaining positions, Drake’s pharmacy program can already boast that over half of the PharmD Class of 2021 are pursuing post-graduate education.