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Washington State University
Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Rural Health Initiative

Rural Health Track

Program Overview

The Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (CPPS) is offering a specialized track for student pharmacists who are committed to expanding access to pharmacist care in rural communities. Students will apply for admission into this track before the end of their first year (PY1). Once admitted, students will be assigned a faculty mentor to guide them through successful completion of the track. Expectations of students in the rural health track include selecting elective courses that emphasize rural health topics, scheduling of Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE) and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotations in rural areas, and completion of a capstone project focused on improving an aspect of rural health care.

Applicants to the CPPS rural health track are student pharmacists with a commitment to practicing pharmacy in Washington state’s rural communities. Student pharmacists that are from rural communities in Washington state and hope to return to those communities are especially encouraged to apply.

Program Details

  • Access to specialized elective course work
    • Introduction to Rural Healthcare and Research Methods – 2 credits, offered fall semester
    • 3 to 6 additional credits in electives covering topics relevant to rural health – access to courses within and outside the CPPS
  • Capstone Course – 2 to 4 elective credits
    • Longitudinal special project in rural health
    • 1-2 credits awarded per semester
    • Faculty and community mentors
    • Present results at a regional or national meeting, develop a manuscript for publication
  • IPPE and APPE rotations scheduled at rural sites
    • Multiple home zones available across the state
  • Interprofessional service and learning experiences in rural communities
  • Unique mentoring program – faculty and alumni advisors with rural pharmacy experience

Benefits of Participation

  • Special preparation for a rewarding career with opportunities to positively impact health disparities and improve access to care
  • Access to additional scholarships up to $10,000 per year
  • Access to loan repayment programs upon graduation if practicing in a qualifying community or setting
  • Assistance with identifying post-graduate training opportunities in rural health
  • Distinguish yourself from your peers: special recognition at commencement, certificate of completion for your curriculum vitae

Requirements of Applicants

  • Completion of the fall semester PY1 year
  • Maintenance of good academic standing, passing all courses throughout the PharmD curriculum
  • Scholarship recipients make a commitment to practice in a rural community in Washington state for at least three years after graduation

Apply to the Rural Health Track

Application deadlines for 2023 coming soon!