The Dual Degree Program enables students to complete both degrees in an integrated pathway.
Years 1-3
Phase 1: PharmD Curriculum (Years 1–2)
Students complete the didactic curriculum and foundational experiential education requirements while exploring research opportunities and identifying potential PhD mentors. Key activities include:
• Core PharmD coursework
• Introductory pharmacy practice experiences (IPPEs)
• Research exploration and laboratory rotations (as applicable)
• Selection of PhD program and faculty mentor
• Development of a doctoral research plan
Phase 2: PhD Training (Years 3-5+)
Students temporarily pause progression to advanced pharmacy practice experiences. During this time, students will complete their doctoral research training in the PhD Degree Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacogenomics. Key activities include: • Graduate coursework • Qualifying examinations • Dissertation research • Scientific presentations and publications • Grant and fellowship development • Teaching and mentorship opportunities
PhD training duration varies by discipline and research project but typically requires 3–5 years.
Students may pursue doctoral training across a broad range of disciplines, including:
• Pharmacogenomics and functional genomics • Quantitative and systems pharmacology • Computational genomics • Molecular pharmacology • Drug development sciences • Therapeutic bioengineering
Phase 3: Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (Final Year)
Following successful completion of doctoral requirements, students return to complete the PharmD advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs). Experiences include: • Acute care pharmacy • Ambulatory care pharmacy • Health system pharmacy • Elective clinical rotations
Graduation
Students receive: • Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD degree will be awarded as soon as all PSPG coursework has been successfully completed and thesis has been approved. PharmD degree will be awarded at the successful completion of all PharmD coursework, including APPEs.
PhD students graduate in the specific quarter in which their dissertation is approved. UCSF holds one graduate program commencement ceremony each year in May and students choose in which ceremony to walk (can be before or after they finish the program). Individual timelines may vary depending on research discipline and progress toward dissertation completion.
