KU School of Pharmacy moves into U.S. News top 20

Brad Stauffer, Ed.D.

The University of Kansas School of Pharmacy has returned to the top 20 in the U.S. News & World Report ranking of “Best Pharmacy Schools.” In the most recent ranking released this month, KU’s Doctor of Pharmacy program (Pharm.D.) was ranked in a tie for 19th, up five spots, out of 141 accredited schools. The ranking is done every four years and reflects peer assessments of academic quality, plus other considerations including location, environment, strength of different fields, cost after tuition and financial aid, and job placement.

“This forward momentum is one indication of our growing strength,” said Dean Ronald Ragan. “I’m encouraged by several quality factors that start with outstanding faculty and researchers, impressive student performance and alumni and supporters who have built upon our reputation of excellence.”

Ragan noted additional evidence of the school’s trajectory:

  • Application numbers for next fall are on the rise compared to the same time last year.
  • First-time pass rates for the NAPLEX and MPJE licensure exams have both risen to 91%, well above national averages.
  • The combined NAPLEX and MPJE scores place KU Pharmacy at No. 5 nationally.
  • KU Pharmacy ranks No. 12 nationally in total research dollars awarded to schools of pharmacy in 2022.
  • The school recently received a full eight-year accreditation with all standards fully compliant for the first time.
  • Earlier this year, the school announced its non-resident four-year tuition would be reduced nearly $50,000, designed to attract top out of state students to the Pharm.D. program and increase enrollment.

Full results of the U.S. News & World Report pharmacy school rankings may be found at https://rockcha.lk/USNewsRx.