Dual Degree Program Between Viterbo University and the Medical College of Wisconsin School of Pharmacy

Early Assured Direct Admission and Reverse Transfer 3+3 Agreements

These agreements are a unique partnership between the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) and Viterbo University that provides a direct route for full-time Viterbo students to gain direct admission into the Doctor of Pharmacy program at MCW.

The 3+3 agreement allows students to obtain both a bachelor of science (BS) degree in biology or biochemistry from Viterbo and a doctor of pharmacy degree from MCW in six years (3+3). This is accomplished through “reverse transfer” of MCW coursework to fulfill some requirements for the B.S. degree at Viterbo. See sample four-year academic plans.

About Pharmacy

From the Viterbo University Pre-Health Advising handbook:

Pharmacists are an integral part of the primary health care system. They educate patients about different medications and serve to ensure safe administration of drugs. Pharmacists also advise other health care providers about drug treatment plans, monitor drug therapy, and they may do research and clinical studies.

A doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) completes a three- or four-year program. A majority of graduates work in community pharmacy or in large retail pharmacy. However, pharmacists may also choose from many specialized fields and/or perform clinical research. Most pharmacy schools require the PCAT for admission. Typical admissions averages for pharmacy range greater by school than others and data on GPA and the PCAT can be found at AACP. However, typical admissions averages for high-quality programs in the Midwest include an average overall GPA of 3.4–3.5 and percentile scores on the PCAT of greater than 75%. Other (often newer) programs may allow lower GPAs and PCAT scores.

The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that the profession will grow by 6% from 2016–2026. Updated job outlook data can be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) provides information on application requirements, descriptions of careers, and programs in the U.S.

Requirements for the MCW Articulation Agreements

General requirements for 3+3 and early admission

• Major in biology or biochemistry
• Earn a cumulative GPA of 3.5 in all courses taken at Viterbo
• Successfully complete specific science and math courses as defined in the agreement
• Apply for early acceptance in the spring of the first year at Viterbo with assistance from the Viterbo pre-health committee

General requirements for early admission

• Complete any major at Viterbo University while also successfully completing all pre-requisites as defined in the agreement
• Earn a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all courses taken at Viterbo
• Apply for early acceptance in the spring of the second year at Viterbo with assistance from the Viterbo pre-health committee