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Derivation and Characterization of a Transgene-free Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Line and Conversion into Defined Clinical-grade Conditions

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PharmD Degree: A Case for STEM Designation.

Chau Phan¹, Diyaben Patel¹, Kathryn F Dilworth²

¹Purdue University College of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, IN, USA.

American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education

|December 13, 2025

Summary

International students on F-1 visas can gain work experience through Optional Practical Training (OPT). Graduates in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields qualify for extended OPT, but pharmacy degrees face exclusion.

Keywords:

International OPT PharmD degree Pharmacy STEM

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Area of Science:

Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Immigration Policy
Higher Education

Background:

International students in the U.S. require an F-1 visa for academic studies.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows graduates to gain post-graduation work experience in their field.
STEM graduates are eligible for a 2-year OPT extension, while non-STEM graduates receive a 1-year OPT.

Purpose of the Study:

To highlight the discrepancy in OPT eligibility for Doctor of Pharmacy graduates.
To explore potential solutions for extending OPT for international pharmacy students.
To advocate for policy changes benefiting pharmacy graduates.

Main Methods:

Analysis of Department of Education STEM designations.
Review of Department of Homeland Security OPT extension criteria.
Examination of implications for Doctor of Pharmacy programs.

Main Results:

Pharmaceutical sciences programs are STEM-designated, but the Doctor of Pharmacy degree is not.
This exclusion negatively impacts both domestic and international pharmacy graduates regarding OPT extensions.
Current policies create barriers for pharmacy graduates seeking extended practical training.

Conclusions:

The exclusion of the Doctor of Pharmacy degree from STEM-qualified fields for OPT extensions requires urgent attention.
Policy advocacy and academic leadership are crucial to address these implications.
Revising designations could enhance opportunities for pharmacy graduates in the U.S. workforce.