Appalachian College of Pharmacy

Appalachian College of Pharmacy (ACP) is a private pharmacy college located in Oakwood, Virginia, United States. Established in 2003, it is the sole pharmacy school in the Commonwealth of Virginia dedicated solely to the study of pharmacy. The college offers a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program, which is designed to prepare students for careers in the pharmacy profession. The curriculum emphasizes a patient-centered approach and the role of pharmacists in promoting health and wellness in rural and underserved communities, particularly in the Appalachian region.

History

The Appalachian College of Pharmacy was founded with the mission to improve healthcare in rural areas, focusing on the Appalachian region. Recognizing the critical shortage of healthcare providers in these areas, the college aimed to educate pharmacists who would serve in these communities. Since its inception, ACP has graduated numerous pharmacists who have gone on to work in community pharmacies, hospitals, and healthcare facilities, contributing significantly to improving access to care in underserved regions.

Campus

The ACP campus is situated in Oakwood, Virginia, providing a serene and conducive environment for learning. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and a library with extensive resources on pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences. The college also offers various student services, including counseling, career guidance, and support for community engagement and professional development activities.

Academic Programs

The primary program offered by the Appalachian College of Pharmacy is the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and is designed to be completed in three years of full-time study, which is shorter than the traditional four-year Pharm.D. programs offered by most pharmacy schools.

Curriculum

The Pharm.D. curriculum at ACP is comprehensive and integrates foundational knowledge in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences with clinical practice. It includes courses in pharmacology, pharmacy law, medication therapy management, and patient care. Students also participate in experiential education, gaining hands-on experience in various practice settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, with a focus on rural healthcare delivery.

Community Engagement

A hallmark of the Appalachian College of Pharmacy is its commitment to community service and engagement. The college encourages students to participate in health outreach programs, health screenings, and educational workshops in the local community. These activities not only provide valuable services to residents but also offer students practical experience in patient care and community health.

Admissions

Admission to the Appalachian College of Pharmacy is competitive, with applicants required to have completed prerequisite coursework in sciences and general education. Prospective students must also submit scores from the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) and participate in an interview process. The college seeks candidates who demonstrate a commitment to serving rural and underserved populations.

Accreditation

The Appalachian College of Pharmacy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), ensuring that its Pharm.D. program meets the high standards required for pharmacy education in the United States.

Conclusion

The Appalachian College of Pharmacy plays a crucial role in addressing the healthcare needs of rural and underserved communities in the Appalachian region and beyond. Through its focused curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and commitment to community service, ACP educates pharmacists who are well-prepared to improve patient care and public health in these areas.