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Combined BSPS and PharmD Degree

Open the door to a fulfilling career in pharmacy and enter the workforce sooner with a combined BSPS/PharmD degree from Ohio State.

The combined degree program offers streamlined course efficiencies between the BSPS and PharmD curricula to provide a seamless experience to committed undergraduate students. The BSPS/PharmD Combined Degree program has been designed in such a way that students can complete the BSPS degree faster, and in their fourth-year matriculate in the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD program). 

Students will receive their bachelor's degree at the end of their P1 year (first year of PharmD). Most students will complete both degrees, but students may choose to complete this pathway in more or less time. 

Key benefits of combined BSPS/PharmD program

  • Graduate sooner
    Follow the BSPS/PharmD Combined Degree pathway and graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science and Doctor of Pharmacy degree more efficiently.
  • Tuition savings
    Combined degree students save an average of $11,500 for in-state and $33,500 for out-of-state students.
  • Want to guarantee your admission into the PharmD? 
    Apply to the Early Assurance Program (EAP) and secure your seat in the PharmD program.*

Admissions

Students who are interested in the combined degree pathway will need to declare a major in Pharmaceutical Science.

Students do not have to decide between the combined degree or traditional BSPS degree option until their third year in the program, however, it is imperative that you work closely with your Academic Advisor to discuss your options and create a plan. 

The combined degree pathway is meant only to serve as an option and not limit a student’s educational experience in any way. BSPS students must decide that they want to opt-in to the combined degree program by October 1st of the Autumn term they are taking PHR 3200 (Biochemistry for the Pharmaceutical Sciences). This is typically the Autumn term of the third year of study, but could vary depending on the plan you created with your Academic Advsior.

It is highly recommended that any student interested in the combined degree pathway apply for the Early Assurance Program (EAP). Non-EAP combined degree students will be required to apply to the PharmD program through the PharmCAS and go through the traditional admission process, and admission is not guaranteed. EAP students are guaranteed a seat in the PharmD program (when all matriculation criteria are met), so joining EAP secures your seat in the PharmD. 

If you have questions about the BSPS, Combined Degree or EAP program, we recommend that you schedule a virtual or in-person meeting with our BSPS Recruiter.

 

Schedule a meeting

Lyann Trinh in white coat
elizabeth brown posing beside a brick wall in front of the college
ashley swisshelm in front of brick wall

  • Choosing Ohio State for my PharmD was a natural decision with its seamless transition from the BSPS program. The strong community, academic support and diverse clinical connections have shaped my career, allowing me to explore various pharmacy fields and develop my passion for serving underserved communities in Columbus. It's been a rewarding journey of growth and impact.

    Lyann Trinh Doctor of Pharmacy candidate, Class of 2026

  • Choosing to continue at Ohio State for my PharmD after finishing my BSPS was an incredibly easy decision! Transitioning into pharmacy school is a big life change and I love that I was able to do so on a campus I was familiar with, in a city I’d grown to love and with amazing peers and faculty that had prepared me for that change. All of this, in combination with the fact that Ohio State has a fantastic pharmacy school, made my decision so easy.

    ​Elizabeth Brown Doctor of Pharmacy candidate, Class of 2026

  • I chose to stay at Ohio State to get my PharmD because it became a place I called home throughout my undergraduate career. I built such strong relationships with our faculty and staff that I would not get right off the bat in another program. Continuing at Ohio State also spared me from completing additional testing and applications required for other programs. I am so excited to say that I am a Buckeye for life!

    Ashley Swisshelm Doctor of Pharmacy candidate, Class of 2027