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National Survey of Pharmacy Program Self Study Processes, Strategies, and Stakeholders
Jill Augustine1, Jaime Maerten-Rivera2, Robert Bechtol3
1Mercer University College of Pharmacy, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341.
American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education
|August 7, 2026
Summary
Pharmacy schools use similar strategies for Accreditation Council on Pharmacy Education (ACPE) self-study reports. Key success factors include strong leadership, organization, and clear timelines for the accreditation process.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy Education
- Accreditation Standards
- Academic Program Review
Background:
- Accreditation Council on Pharmacy Education (ACPE) site visits are crucial for US pharmacy schools.
- Preparing self-study reports is a complex and time-consuming process for academic programs.
- Limited research exists on the practical approaches and perceptions of self-study report preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe current approaches and perceptions in preparing self-study reports for ACPE site visits.
- To identify common strategies and challenges faced by US pharmacy schools during the self-study process.
- To provide insights into effective management of accreditation self-study reports.
Main Methods:
- A 28-item survey was administered to 32 US pharmacy programs that completed an ACPE site visit between Spring 2021 and Spring 2025.
- The survey assessed self-study planning, preparation, stakeholder involvement, and perceptions of the process.
- Quantitative results were reported using frequencies, and qualitative data from open-ended questions were analyzed for themes.
Main Results:
- A 51.6% response rate (32 out of 62 programs) was achieved.
- Most programs (93.8%) held kick-off meetings and provided materials; 59.4% started 12-18 months prior.
- Deans/administrators typically led the self-study (62.5%), often with new committees (68.7%), involving faculty and staff in writing and review (>80%).
Conclusions:
- Pharmacy programs, despite diverse contexts, utilize consistent structural methods for self-study management.
- Leadership, organization, and clear timelines are identified as critical success factors.
- Further research is needed to understand the impact of new accreditation requirements on these practices.
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