Are you searching for affordable pharmacy programs that still offer quality? Maybe you’re looking for a budget-friendly pharmacy education or an online PharmD. It’s important to know which cost-effective pharmacy colleges are the best. We’ll look at the top 10 most affordable online pharmacy schools in the U.S. We’ll compare their tuition, accreditation, and overall value.
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Table of Contents
- Introduction to Online Pharmacy Schools
- + Why Choose an Online Pharmacy School?
- + Benefits of Getting a Pharmacy Degree Online
- Important caveats to keep in mind:
- 10 Best Cheapest online pharmacy schools
- 1. Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM)
- 2. Creighton University
- 3. Shenandoah University
- 4. University of Colorado (iPharmD)
- 5. St. John Fisher University (Wegmans School of Pharmacy)
- 6. Duquesne University
- 7. University of Florida (Working Professional PharmD)
- 8. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS)
- 9. Howard University (Non-Traditional Doctor of Pharmacy Program)
- 10. UTHSC (University of Tennessee Health Science Center) [Hybrid/Distance Components]
- Tips for Finding the Most Affordable Option
- + Final Takeaway
- FAQ
Getting a pharmacy degree online can be a wise choice for your future. We’ve gathered data from the National Center for Education Statistics, university websites, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This information will help you make a well-informed decision.
Introduction to Online Pharmacy Schools
Online PharmD programs have changed pharmacy education a lot. They offer great convenience and are becoming more popular. This is because they are flexible and easy to access, unlike traditional schools.
Why Choose an Online Pharmacy School?
Many reasons make online pharmacy programs appealing. Students like the flexibility they offer. They can study while keeping up with work and personal life. Online learning platforms also provide great resources and interactive lessons.
Benefits of Getting a Pharmacy Degree Online
Online pharmacy degrees let you study at your own pace. This means you can fit your studies into your busy schedule. Pharmacists who went online say it’s effective, with a good curriculum and skills that work in real life. Plus, the technology used is top-notch, making sure students get a quality education.
Important caveats to keep in mind:
- Full ACPE Accreditation for PharmD: In the United States, to become a licensed pharmacist you generally need to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). Almost all accredited PharmD programs require significant in-person experiential coursework (labs, clinical rotations), so a fully online (100%) PharmD is extremely rare.
- Hybrid vs. Online Pathways: Many programs described as “online” are in fact hybrid, with didactic coursework delivered online and clinical/lab components done in-person.
- Bridging / Post-BS PharmD: Some online or mostly online programs are non-traditional (e.g., “bridge” programs) designed for licensed pharmacists who already hold a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy or a foreign pharmacy degree.
- Tuition Varies by Resident/Non-Resident Status: “Cheapest” can differ widely depending on scholarships, residency, fees, transfer credits, and more. Always verify tuition and fees directly with each school.
With that in mind, the following list highlights programs often noted for relatively more affordable tuition or flexible pathways. They are not strictly ranked from cheapest to most expensive, but are a starting point for researching cost-effective, distance-friendly pharmacy education. Always confirm details directly with each university.
10 Best Cheapest online pharmacy schools
1. Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM)
- Program: Distance Education Pathway (PharmD)
- Why Consider:
- LECOM is known for comparatively lower tuition among private schools.
- Offers a distance-education pathway where much of the didactic coursework is online, although students must complete in-person labs/rotations.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Approx. Annual Tuition: Often in the $30,000–$35,000 range (verify current rates).
- Visit: https://lecom.edu/pharmacy/sop-pathways/distance-education-pathway/
2. Creighton University
- Program: Online PharmD Pathway
- Why Consider:
- One of the first universities to offer a distance-based PharmD program.
- Well-established online learning platforms and track record.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Approx. Annual Tuition: Typically $38,000–$42,000 or more (private-school rates). May offer scholarships.
- Visit: https://www.creighton.edu/academics/programs/pharmacy
3. Shenandoah University
- Program: Non-Traditional Doctor of Pharmacy (NTDP)
- Why Consider:
- Designed for licensed pharmacists with a BS in Pharmacy to earn a PharmD largely online.
- Flexible scheduling for working professionals.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Approx. Tuition: Charged per credit; total cost often lower than a full in-person PharmD because it’s a “bridge” program.
- Visit: https://www.su.edu/pharmacy/programs/non-traditional-pathway/
4. University of Colorado (iPharmD)
- Program: iPharmD for North American-Trained or International-Trained Pharmacists
- Why Consider:
- Tailored to those who already hold a bachelor’s or equivalent in pharmacy (or are licensed pharmacists) and want to complete a PharmD online.
- Offers advanced standing based on prior credentials.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Approx. Tuition: Varies by track (North American vs. International). Generally more affordable for in-state residents.
- Visit: https://pharmacy.cuanschutz.edu/academics/online-programs/ntpd
5. St. John Fisher University (Wegmans School of Pharmacy)
- Program: Online/Hybrid PharmD Pathway (with on-site immersions)
- Why Consider:
- Relatively new hybrid program that combines online coursework with campus-based labs/immersions a few times a year.
- Smaller class sizes and direct faculty interaction.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited (the online/hybrid track is included).
- Tuition: Private university rates; often $38,000–$45,000 annually.
- Visit: https://onlinepharmd.sjf.edu/
6. Duquesne University
- Program: Non-Traditional/Online PharmD Option (for licensed pharmacists)
- Why Consider:
- Part-time and online course delivery with some short on-campus sessions.
- Well-regarded pharmacy school with flexible scheduling.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Tuition: Typically charged on a per-credit basis; check for current per-credit costs.
- Visit: https://www.duq.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/pharmacy/online-pharmd.php
7. University of Florida (Working Professional PharmD)
- Program: WPPD (Working Professional PharmD) – Although it has undergone changes in recent years
- Why Consider:
- Historically offered a mostly online path for licensed pharmacists.
- Large, well-established College of Pharmacy with strong resources.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Tuition: Usually competitive for in-state students; out-of-state tuition is higher but sometimes offset by fewer on-campus requirements.
- Visit: https://pharmacy.ufl.edu/education/degrees-and-programs/online-ms-programs/
8. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS)
- Program: Various online graduate certificates and degrees in pharmaceutical sciences, regulatory affairs, and an on-campus PharmD with limited hybrid components.
- Why Consider:
- Offers some online graduate programs in the pharmacy realm (e.g., Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Research).
- The full PharmD is primarily in-person, but MCPHS is often cited for multiple program formats.
- Accreditation: PharmD is ACPE-accredited (though mostly on campus); check distance options carefully.
- Tuition: Varies by program; private-school tuition can be high, but scholarship opportunities exist.
- visit: https://www.mcphs.edu/academics/programs/pharmacy-pharmd
9. Howard University (Non-Traditional Doctor of Pharmacy Program)
- Program: Online “Non-Traditional” PharmD for practicing pharmacists
- Why Consider:
- Historically has offered a distance-based “bridge” program for BS in Pharmacy–trained pharmacists.
- Reduced on-campus time for labs/seminars.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Tuition: Generally moderate private-university range; confirm current rates.
- Visit: https://pharmacy.howard.edu/academic-programs/non-traditional-doctor-pharmacy-ntdp-program
10. UTHSC (University of Tennessee Health Science Center) [Hybrid/Distance Components]
- Program: Primarily an on-campus PharmD, but has distance education components and satellite campuses.
- Why Consider:
- Often cited as one of the more affordable public pharmacy schools (especially for TN residents).
- Some lectures and coursework may be available via distance platforms.
- Accreditation: ACPE-accredited.
- Tuition: Much lower for in-state residents; out-of-state is higher.
- Visit: https://www.uthsc.edu/pharmacy/
Tips for Finding the Most Affordable Option
- Check In-State vs. Out-of-State Rates: Public universities offer significantly discounted tuition for in-state residents.
- Look for Bridge/NTDP Programs: If you’re already a licensed pharmacist or have a bachelor’s in pharmacy, a non-traditional or bridge program may cost less overall (fewer credits).
- Compare Per-Credit vs. Flat Rate: Some schools charge tuition by the credit hour, while others use a flat rate per semester.
- Scholarships & Financial Aid: Many private schools offset higher “sticker prices” with scholarships or grants. Check for merit-based or need-based opportunities.
- Accreditation & State Requirements: Always ensure your program is ACPE-accredited if you aim for pharmacist licensure in the U.S. Also verify the program meets your state’s board of pharmacy requirements for licensure.
- Clinical Rotations: Even online/hybrid programs will require in-person experiential rotations. Confirm how far you may need to travel, as this impacts your overall costs.
Final Takeaway
A fully online, ACPE-accredited PharmD that requires zero on-campus labs is virtually nonexistent; instead, you’ll find hybrid or distance pathways with online didactics plus mandatory in-person labs and clinical rotations. Among these, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) is often cited as one of the more cost-effective private options, and public universities (like UTHSC or University of Florida for in-state residents) can be relatively affordable. Always confirm current tuition, fees, and accreditation directly with each school before applying.
FAQ
What are the most affordable pharmacy programs available online?
The top 10 most affordable online pharmacy schools in the U.S. offer low tuition rates. They don’t sacrifice quality of education. You can find these schools on the National Center for Education Statistics and university websites.
Why should I choose an online pharmacy school?
Online pharmacy schools are popular for their convenience and flexibility. They help students balance work, study, and personal life effectively.
What are the benefits of getting a pharmacy degree online?
Online pharmacy programs offer flexible scheduling and self-paced learning. They let you work while studying. These programs use the latest digital learning technologies for effective education.
How important is accreditation for online pharmacy schools?
Accreditation ensures high educational standards in pharmacy schools. It’s vital for future career opportunities. Agencies like the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) validate these programs.
What costs should I consider for an online pharmacy degree?
Consider tuition fees, study materials, and technology fees. Financial aid can help manage these costs.
What does the curriculum of online pharmacy programs typically include?
Online pharmacy programs cover diverse aspects of pharmaceutical education. They ensure graduates are well-prepared with the necessary knowledge and skills.
What is the reputation of the University of Florida’s online pharmacy program?
The University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy is highly regarded. It’s known for its comprehensive online programs, expert faculty, and strong learning outcomes.
How much does the online pharmacy degree at the University of Colorado Denver cost?
Detailed information on tuition and fees is on the University of Colorado Denver’s School of Pharmacy webpage. Financial aid options are available to help manage costs.
What makes Ferris State University’s online pharmacy program unique?
Ferris State University offers a well-rounded online pharmacy program. It has expert faculty, robust student support services, and partnerships for practical experience.
How does the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences support online pharmacy students?
MCPHS provides a rich learning environment with excellent academic support. It has program outcomes reflective of high standards and flexible degree options.
What can I expect from the University of Arizona’s online pharmacy degree?
The University of Arizona offers an innovative online pharmacy program. It features advanced teaching methods and numerous online interaction opportunities. Tuition details and financial support resources are outlined on their digital prospectus.
How does the University of Kentucky’s pharmacy program compare cost-wise?
The University of Kentucky offers a competitively priced online pharmacy degree program. It has a strong reputation in faculty distinction, research, and industry connections, enhancing its value.
