Research-related Curriculum and its Applications in US College of Pharmacy Programs

Abstract

Specific Aims: To quantify the number of PharmD programs that require completion of a research project. To describe the types of research being undertaken within PharmD programs. To compare current responses with those obtained in the last survey (2007). Methods: Collaborative effort including students and faculty at three pharmacy programs (AZ, FL and MI). Cross-sectional analysis utilizing the survey (with modifications) developed in 2007. Peer review of questions (face-validity); format included dichotomous response, multiple-choice, and open response. Qualtrics® survey distributed via email to Academic Affairs (or comparative) Dean at AACP affiliate institutions. Descriptive analyses; duplicate responses combined when possible. Project was deemed exempt by IRB. Main Results: Seventy-four programs responded (54% response rate). A total of 22 (30%) programs have a required student research project compared to 25% in 2007. Project requirements were similar among the programs requiring a project: proposal (95%), IRB application (90%), collect and analyze data (77%), prepare a written report (86%), and present findings (82%). The most common methods of collecting data were surveys (91%) and chart reviews (86%). Research related coursework was similar between programs except for research methods courses, which were 36% among programs requiring a research project, and 14% among those not requiring a project. Conclusions: The number of programs requiring student research appears to have increased since 2007. Based on the survey data, students could expect to have similar research experiences in any of the colleges requiring a research project. Most colleges provide coursework related to research.