Doctoral Graduate Programs in the Pharmaceutical Sciences: An International Survey

This publication represents the first to report global information on characteristics and requirements of doctoral programs in the pharmaceutical sciences in schools/colleges of Pharmacy. Survey responses (140 responses) were received from doctoral programs in 23 countries, with the greatest number of responses obtained from Japan, followed by India and the United States. Program characteristics and requirements, and student and faculty information, including graduate placement, in programs in Asia, North America, Europe, Africa and Australia were compared. Survey responses indicated differences in entrance requirements for doctoral programs with minimum requirements being a bachelor's degree, pharmacy degree or master's degree, including a M.Phil. degree. Programs differed widely in size in all geographical areas, but there was a similar emphasis on core educational learning outcomes (core competencies) and Ph.D. graduation requirements including qualifying examinations, thesis defense with internal and external reviewers and requirements for peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, three-quarters of programs indicated that there was external review of their programs every 2-4 or 5-7 years. Female students and female faculty mentors represented about 50% of students/faculty in programs in most geographical areas. Placement of students after graduation indicated that the highest percentage went into the pharmaceutical industry in Asia (predominantly India) and North America, with a lower percentage in Europe, Africa and Australia.