Aspiring pharmacists who are students at Middle Georgia State University (MGA) will be eligible to earn doctoral degrees a year early based on an articulation agreement recently signed by MGA and PCOM South Georgia.
 
"The PharmD Early Assurance Program offers MGA students an exciting opportunity to earn their baccalaureate degree from Middle Georgia State University and the degree of Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine," said Dr. Dawn Sherry, chair of the Natural Sciences department at MGA.
 
According to Dr. Shawn Spencer, dean of the PCOM Georgia School of Pharmacy in Suwanee, Ga., the agreement will allow eligible students in their freshman year at MGA to have a seat reserved three years in advance at the pharmacy school located in Gwinnett County so they may enter after completing their junior year of college. Students who meet the pharmacy school requirements may matriculate into professional school before graduating from MGA, he said, and will have the opportunity to earn a combined BS-PharmD while at PCOM Georgia.
 
Following their second year of pharmacy school, Spencer explained, these students will be eligible to receive their bachelor’s degree from MGA having earned the required credits during their first two years of pharmacy school. A win-win arrangement for all, this newly signed agreement allows students to begin their careers early while saving tuition dollars.
 
“Our agreement with Middle Georgia State University is another example of how PCOM is committed to adding value for our students," Spencer said. "We’re thankful to MGA for partnering with us in our mission of supporting Georgia residents entering the healthcare workforce in the region.”
 
Students enrolled in the doctoral program at PCOM Georgia have the option to enhance their credentials by pursuing concentrations in three pharmacy practice areas including acute, ambulatory and managed care. In addition, PharmD students have the opportunity to pursue one of three graduate business programs offered in partnership with Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, Pa.
 
PCOM President and CEO, Jay S. Feldstein, said, “Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine is working hard to make an impact on all regions of Georgia. By partnering with Middle Georgia State University, we will save our students both time and money in hopes that they will return to Middle Georgia to practice pharmacy.”