Sam SmithSelecting the right Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program is a critical step for aspiring pharmacists. With more than 140 accredited programs in the United States, rankings can be helpful but should be viewed in context. They often reflect factors like NIH research funding, residency match rates, NAPLEX board pass rates, faculty reputation, and peer assessments. This guide synthesizes current data and reputation trends to highlight approximately 50 programs, grouped into tiers, to help future pharmacists identify schools that consistently stand out nationally and regionally.
Top 50 Pharmacy Schools In The US
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Eshelman School of Pharmacy)
UNC Eshelman is consistently ranked the nation’s top pharmacy school, known for innovation, leadership, and research excellence. With strong NIH funding, high residency match rates, and outstanding NAPLEX performance, it prepares graduates for diverse careers in clinical practice, academia, and industry. Students benefit from cutting-edge facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global health initiatives. Its emphasis on entrepreneurship and translational science makes UNC a leader in shaping the future of pharmacy education and pharmaceutical research.
2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF School of Pharmacy)
UCSF is renowned for its research intensity, clinical excellence, and leadership in advancing pharmacy practice. With one of the highest NIH funding levels, it offers students unparalleled opportunities in pharmaceutical sciences and translational research. The program emphasizes patient-centered care, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration within UCSF’s world-class medical center. Graduates consistently achieve strong NAPLEX pass rates and residency placements. UCSF’s reputation for excellence makes it a premier destination for students seeking careers in clinical, academic, or research pharmacy.
3. University of Michigan (College of Pharmacy)
The University of Michigan’s College of Pharmacy combines rigorous academics with strong clinical training and research opportunities. Known for its small class sizes and personalized mentorship, students benefit from close faculty interaction and access to Michigan Medicine’s extensive clinical network. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With strong NAPLEX outcomes and residency match rates, Michigan prepares graduates for diverse careers in pharmacy practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its reputation for excellence makes it a top-tier program.
4. University of Minnesota (College of Pharmacy)
The University of Minnesota’s College of Pharmacy is recognized for its strong clinical training, research excellence, and commitment to serving rural and underserved communities. With campuses in Minneapolis and Duluth, students gain diverse experiences across urban and rural settings. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and community engagement. Consistently ranked among the nation’s best, Minnesota produces graduates with strong NAPLEX pass rates and residency placements. Its focus on patient-centered care and public health makes it a respected leader in pharmacy education.
5. Ohio State University (College of Pharmacy)
Ohio State’s College of Pharmacy is known for its comprehensive curriculum, strong clinical training, and research excellence. Students benefit from access to Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center and extensive clinical networks. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With strong NAPLEX outcomes and residency match rates, Ohio State prepares graduates for diverse careers in pharmacy practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its reputation for excellence and commitment to advancing pharmacy education make it a top choice for aspiring pharmacists.
6. University of Texas at Austin (College of Pharmacy)
UT Austin’s College of Pharmacy is nationally recognized for its strong academics, research output, and clinical training. Students benefit from partnerships with major healthcare systems across Texas, gaining diverse patient care experiences. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With consistently strong NAPLEX pass rates and residency match success, UT Austin prepares graduates for impactful careers in pharmacy practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its reputation for excellence and affordability make it a respected choice nationwide.
7. University of Kentucky (College of Pharmacy)
The University of Kentucky’s College of Pharmacy is known for its strong clinical training, research excellence, and commitment to serving diverse communities. Students benefit from access to UK HealthCare and extensive clinical networks. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and patient-centered care. With consistently high NAPLEX pass rates and residency match success, Kentucky prepares graduates for impactful careers in pharmacy practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its supportive environment and reputation for excellence make it a respected program nationally.
8. University of Florida (College of Pharmacy)
The University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy is recognized for its strong academics, research output, and clinical training. With campuses in Gainesville, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa, students gain diverse experiences across Florida. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With strong NAPLEX outcomes and residency match rates, Florida prepares graduates for diverse careers in pharmacy practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its reputation for excellence and commitment to serving diverse populations make it a respected leader in pharmacy education.
9. University of Illinois Chicago (College of Pharmacy)
UIC’s College of Pharmacy is known for its strong clinical training, research excellence, and commitment to serving urban and underserved populations. Located in Chicago, students gain extensive patient care experiences through partnerships with major healthcare systems. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With consistently strong NAPLEX pass rates and residency match success, UIC prepares graduates for impactful careers in pharmacy practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its reputation for excellence makes it a respected program nationally.
10. University of Wisconsin-Madison (School of Pharmacy)
The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Pharmacy is recognized for its strong academics, research output, and clinical training. Students benefit from access to UW Health and extensive clinical networks. The program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and patient-centered care. With consistently strong NAPLEX pass rates and residency match success, Wisconsin prepares graduates for diverse careers in pharmacy practice, research, and healthcare leadership. Its reputation for excellence and supportive learning environment make it a respected choice for aspiring pharmacists.
Top 50 Pharmacy Schools — Table Format
| # | Pharmacy School / Program |
|---|---|
| 1 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Eshelman School of Pharmacy |
| 2 | University of California, San Francisco – UCSF School of Pharmacy |
| 3 | University of Michigan – College of Pharmacy |
| 4 | University of Minnesota – College of Pharmacy |
| 5 | Ohio State University – College of Pharmacy |
| 6 | University of Texas at Austin – College of Pharmacy |
| 7 | University of Kentucky – College of Pharmacy |
| 8 | University of Florida – College of Pharmacy |
| 9 | University of Illinois Chicago – College of Pharmacy |
| 10 | University of Wisconsin–Madison – School of Pharmacy |
| 11 | Purdue University – College of Pharmacy |
| 12 | University of Washington – School of Pharmacy |
| 13 | University of Southern California – Mann School of Pharmacy |
| 14 | University of Arizona – R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy |
| 15 | University of Utah – College of Pharmacy |
| 16 | Virginia Commonwealth University – School of Pharmacy |
| 17 | University of Maryland – School of Pharmacy |
| 18 | University of Pittsburgh – School of Pharmacy |
| 19 | University of Kansas – School of Pharmacy |
| 20 | Rutgers University – Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy |
| 21 | University of Tennessee Health Science Center – College of Pharmacy |
| 22 | University of Colorado – Skaggs School of Pharmacy |
| 23 | University of Iowa – College of Pharmacy |
| 24 | University of Nebraska Medical Center – College of Pharmacy |
| 25 | University of Oklahoma – College of Pharmacy |
| 26 | University of Georgia – College of Pharmacy |
| 27 | University of Connecticut – School of Pharmacy |
| 28 | Saint Joseph’s University – Philadelphia College of Pharmacy |
| 29 | Mercer University – College of Pharmacy |
| 30 | Northeastern University – School of Pharmacy |
| 31 | Butler University – College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences |
| 32 | Drake University – College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences |
| 33 | Creighton University – School of Pharmacy |
| 34 | University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy in St. Louis |
| 35 | University of California, San Diego – Skaggs School of Pharmacy |
| 36 | Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences |
| 37 | University of South Carolina – College of Pharmacy |
| 38 | West Virginia University – School of Pharmacy |
| 39 | Texas A&M University – Rangel College of Pharmacy |
| 40 | Auburn University – Harrison College of Pharmacy |
| 41 | University of Cincinnati – Winkle College of Pharmacy |
| 42 | University of Mississippi – School of Pharmacy |
| 43 | Xavier University of Louisiana – College of Pharmacy |
| 44 | University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences – College of Pharmacy |
| 45 | Oregon State University – College of Pharmacy |
| 46 | University of Houston – College of Pharmacy |
| 47 | University of Rhode Island – College of Pharmacy |
| 48 | University of New Mexico – College of Pharmacy |
| 49 | Washington State University – College of Pharmacy |
| 50 | Chapman University – School of Pharmacy |
Closing
Ultimately, the “best” pharmacy school is not defined by a ranking number but by how well it aligns with your personal and professional goals. Accreditation, NAPLEX pass rates, residency match success, cost, and curriculum focus are far more important than prestige alone. Use this list as a starting point, but take time to visit campuses, speak with current students, and evaluate each program’s culture and clinical network. The pharmacy profession values competence and licensure above all—your success will depend more on your performance and fit than on the name of your school.