New pharmacy school opens in Denver

Key Points

The new program will offer an entry-level doctor of pharmacy degree to students training to become practicing pharmacists. This program will become the second professional doctoral degree program to be offered at Regis University. The university's first such program offers a doctor of physical therapy degree.

"We are excited to start our pioneer class this fall," said Lane J. Brunner, dean of the School of Pharmacy, who holds a professional pharmacy degree from the University of Washington and a PhD in pharmacy from the University of Georgia. "Through our innovative curriculum and teaching model, we believe that Regis University graduates will become pharmacy leaders who will shape the future of the profession."

The School of Pharmacy curriculum will include courses intended to help graduates improve patient outcomes by counseling patients on medication use, advocating patient safety, and striving to minimize disparities in healthcare access, especially for marginalized populations.

"Regis University has a strong reputation for preparing excellent professionals in nursing, physical therapy, health information management, and other health fields," said Patricia Ladewig, academic dean of RHCHP. "Establishing a school of pharmacy is a logical next step for Regis in advancing our commitment to serve the healthcare needs of the people of Colorado and beyond."