Reduced Doctor of Pharmacy tuition for non‑resident students

To remedy the acute pharmacist shortage in the state, Washington State University has permanently reduced non-resident tuition for the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. Effective fall semester of 2023, all students living outside of Washington state will receive a 30% discount on annual tuition, translating to a $12,044 savings. The discounted tuition aims to attract out-of-state students to pursue a career in pharmacy in Washington, where there is currently an ongoing shortage of pharmacists. The COVID‑19 pandemic resulted in many pharmacists choosing to retire. The reduced cost makes pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at WSU the most affordable option on the West Coast.

The reduced cost makes pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at Washington State University the most affordable option on the West Coast.

“We want to attract the best and brightest students in the country and ensure our world-class education is affordable and accessible for everyone,” said College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Dean Mark Leid. “The discounted tuition will give students the opportunity to pursue their dreams of a career in health care and pharmacy practice while ensuring we continue to provide Washington state with quality pharmacists. It’s a win-win situation for all.”

According to a 2022 American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy report, Washington state ranks fourth in the country for the highest demand for pharmacists, and the job growth rate is expected to outpace the number of graduates entering the field. 

The state is one of the most progressive in the country for pharmacy practice, with pharmacists able to diagnose and prescribe for minor ailments and conditions. The PharmD program prepares students to become licensed pharmacists who can practice in a variety of settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.

Out-of-state students who are interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy practice can take advantage of the new tuition immediately. June 1 is the final application deadline to start fall 2023.