Development of a Vertically Integrated Pharmacy Degree

Abstract

Whilst curriculum revision is commonplace, whole degree transformation is less so. In this paper we discuss the rationale, design and implementation of a unique pharmacy program by a research-intensive faculty. The new Monash pharmacy curriculum, which had its first intake in 2017, was built using a range of key innovations that aimed to produce graduates that demonstrate key conceptual understanding and all the skills required to deliver world-best patient outcomes. The key elements of the re-design are outlined and include the process and principles developed, as well as key features such as a student-centred individualised program of development arranged around specific, authentic tasks for each skill and earlier enhanced experiential placements where students become proficient in entrustable professional activities. It is hoped the dissemination of this process, as well as the lessons learnt in the process, will be useful to others looking to transform a health curriculum.

Keywords: curriculum development; faculty development; health curriculum transformation; pedagogical and instructional principles; pharmacy degree; skills development.

Figure 1

Monash University Bachelor of Pharmacy degree map. Students complete the first four years and graduate with a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), and if all courses shown in year five are completed alongside the internship, students graduate at the end of year five with a Master of Pharmacy degree. Courses shaded dark blue are of master’s level. Other colors refer to different course types (pink: professional practice, light blue: how medicines work, orange: how the body works, green: comprehensive care, grey: student experiential placements).

Figure 2

The Monash Model of Care (MMoC), a standardised process of patient care taught consistently throughout courses within the Monash Pharmacy degree.