Skip to main contentSkip to main navigationSkip to footer content

Pre-Pharmacy Pathway

Dickinson State University + North Dakota State University

Your path to a Doctor of Pharmacy—starting in western North Dakota

Dickinson State University has partnered with North Dakota State University to create two streamlined pathways into NDSU’s Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. This agreement connects students in western North Dakota to the state’s only pharmacy school while allowing them to begin their journey close to home.

Through this partnership, DSU students can complete their pre-pharmacy coursework in Dickinson and transition directly into the PharmD program at NDSU.

Why Choose the DSU–NDSU PharmD Pathway?

  • Start close to home in western North Dakota
  • Two flexible pathway options to fit your academic goals
  • HyFlex and online course options for select pharmacy coursework
  • Direct connection to North Dakota’s only PharmD program
  • Strong workforce demand for pharmacists, especially in rural communities

Pharmacists across the state recognize the need for locally trained professionals. With numerous open positions, many in western North Dakota, this pathway prepares students for high-demand careers serving their communities.

Two Pathways to the PharmD

Traditional Pre-Pharmacy Pathway (3 Years at DSU)

  1. Complete required pre-pharmacy coursework at Dickinson State University.
  2. Apply to NDSU’s Doctor of Pharmacy program.
  3. Upon acceptance, transition to NDSU to complete the PharmD.

Ideal for students who want a traditional undergraduate experience before pharmacy school.

Early Assurance Pathway (2 Years at DSU)

  1. Complete designated prerequisite courses at DSU; including select NDSU courses via distance education technology.
  2. Meet academic benchmarks for early assurance.
  3. Transition into the NDSU PharmD program after two years.

Ideal for high-achieving students ready to accelerate their path to a pharmacy career.

Flexible Learning Options

Select pharmacy courses from NDSU may be offered in HyFlex or online formats, allowing DSU students to access specialized instruction while remaining in Dickinson.

Career Outlook

Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas. Across North Dakota, there is strong demand for pharmacists, with many open positions located in the western part of the state.

Graduates of the PharmD program can pursue careers in:

  • Community pharmacy
  • Hospital and clinical settings
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Specialty and compounding pharmacies
  • Public health and research
  • Pharmaceutical industry
  • and more...

How to Get Started

  1. Apply to Dickinson State University’s Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.
  2. Choose a pre-pharmacy track with your academic advisor.
  3. Complete required coursework and meet admission criteria.
  4. Apply to the NDSU PharmD program according to your chosen pathway.

For more information:

  • Dr. Elizabeth Freedman, Elizabeth.freedman@dickinsonstate.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

Students in the traditional pathway may complete a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry before or during their entry into their chosen PharmD program option. Early Assurance Pathway students may transition after two years of prerequisite coursework and receive an associate degree in Biology.

Admission requirements are set by NDSU. Students must meet the academic benchmarks and prerequisite coursework requirements to be eligible to apply.

Students complete their pre-pharmacy coursework at DSU. The professional PharmD program is based at NDSU.

High-achieving students may be considered for early assurance once they meet the designated coursework and academic criteria. Your DSU and NDSU advisors will guide you through the process.

Students typically select a pre-pharmacy-aligned major such as biology or chemistry. Your advisor will help you choose the best academic plan.

Yes. DSU and NDSU both offer financial aid, scholarships, and other funding opportunities for eligible students.