Hey all,
I am currently an MPH student and I am just wondering why there is a lack of pharmacists with MPH degrees compared to other professional degrees. But then, it led me to ask these few questions:

How beneficial is an MPH degree to a pharmacist? Are the fields of prevention and community health a part of the pharmD curriculum? What can you do with a PharmD and MPH?

As a student, I am thinking of which ways I can complement my MPH degree with a professional degree. I just want to hear how PharmD students think about getting MPH on top of their pharmD.

Some PharmD/MPH graduates have careers as full-time clinical pharmacists. Others combine clinical work with research and/or involvement in public health programs and policy at local, state, national, or international levels. Many pharmacists pursue an MPH to prepare them for academic careers in which they will use their knowledge of epidemiology to conduct research in a range of clinical or public health areas, or to design and evaluate community-based health programs

Hey all,
I am currently an MPH student and I am just wondering why there is a lack of pharmacists with MPH degrees compared to other professional degrees. But then, it led me to ask these few questions:

How beneficial is an MPH degree to a pharmacist? Are the fields of prevention and community health a part of the pharmD curriculum? What can you do with a PharmD and MPH?

As a student, I am thinking of which ways I can complement my MPH degree with a professional degree. I just want to hear how PharmD students think about getting MPH on top of their pharmD.

Best thing to do with an MPH degree + PHarm D is to be a pharmacy co-ordinator or a manager. You are basically setting yourself up for a managerial type position.

Best thing to do with an MPH degree + PHarm D is to be a pharmacy co-ordinator or a manager. You are basically setting yourself up for a managerial type position.


I thought that would be a PharmD+ mba?

an MPH in admin & policy (or whatever similar category title the school uses) is designed for administration/managerial type positions.

UF has both PharmD + MBA and PharmD + MPH programs depending on what type of management you wish to go into. You can read about them on their website www.cop.ufl.edu

Most of the Pharm.D./MPH's I know either went to industry in marketing or modeling or joined Ph.D. program tracks. Quite a number a faculty have the BS or Pharm.D./MPh and Ph.D. as qualifiers.

It's a good experience for administrative pharmacy or pharmacoepi, but not really necessary for normal line work. The MPH also isn't a sufficient qualifer for research.

What is MPH?

What is MPH?

Master of Public Health

one reason people may not have an MPH is there is actually a public health residency available.

What can you do with a MPH anyway? I really want to combine my PharmD with another type of degree, but I'm unsure of what I want. I am tossing around the idea of either a MBA or MPH.

Thanks!

What can you do with a MPH anyway? I really want to combine my PharmD with another type of degree, but I'm unsure of what I want. I am tossing around the idea of either a MBA or MPH.

Thanks!

How about a Pharm D/MD!!! or pharm D/DJD. There is some attractive options. Here is an interesting one too. How about Pharm D/DDS? Think about it.

Most of the Pharm.D./MPH's I know either went to industry in marketing or modeling...

Modeling? :thumbup: I know there's a huge demand for sexy PharmD/MPH's!

I definitely don't want to attend medical school after I complete my PharmD. I definitely want to get another degree, but unsure of what I want to do. I want to do something in conjunction with my PharmD, which I know that my MPH or MBA can be done along w/my PharmD. However, those options are something to consider. Thanks!

I definitely don't want to attend medical school after I complete my PharmD. I definitely want to get another degree, but unsure of what I want to do. I want to do something in conjunction with my PharmD, which I know that my MPH or MBA can be done along w/my PharmD. However, those options are something to consider. Thanks!

As discussed above, it all depends what you want to do in the future. An MBA has always been looked upon as a managerial type degree where the MPH focuses more on public health and healthcare needs of a population. Both degrees serve their purpose, yet differ in their backgrounds.

I chose to pursue the PharmD/MBA since I've always had an interest in business. Pharmacy has begun shifting more toward a more business-focus, and why not be prepared for the changes in pharmacy? Most people assume that if you're getting a PharmD/MBA, you'll want to open your own pharmacy, but that's not my case. Pharmacy is a growing practice, yet still has a foundation in the traditional aspects.

The best thing you can do regarding if an MPH or MBA is best for you is to research. Email different schools and see what getting a MPH or MBA has to offer for you. Will it complement your future goals?

Anyone doin' one o' dees?

I'm looking into the aformementioned program at U of Iowa, and I am wondering if anyone on the forum is currently in this degree option, or is considering it.

Any response would be greatly appreciated!

Sincerely,

-skp

I have considered it several different times..... I still haven't made up my mind as now it will be a matter of going back to get it.

don't forget there are residencies in public health that are also available.

I am actually finishing up my MPH with a concentration in EPI in May, then Ill be going to pharm. school. Im interested in Pharmacoepi, planning to do some sort of research or maybe something with clinical trials. Others who have done the same, took the MPH- Health Policy and Management part to work with HMOs or become pharmacy managers. Im actively searching other options with the combined degree myself.

(shameless resurrection of my old thread...)

bbmuffin or sector,

i've contacted U. of Iowa several times concerning their joint PharmD/MPH but haven't got any (clear) responses to this type of questioning:

What fields/jobs do people with this degree end up working in?

I see mentioned a few above - pharmacopeia, pharmacy managment, epi, hmo, clinical trials, etc.

Any other input?? I don't really know the roles one would undertake in the above postitions either... :confused: :o

Tx,
-skp

I'm not really sure about the MPH/PharmD but... I know (well, pretty sure he's president) that the AL dept of Public Health main person is a pharmacist.
Also we have a couple of pharmacists on staff who work at the health departments (i'm not sure what they do b/c i didn't get a rotation with them :( ) And you can do a residency here in bham in public health.

the guy at the state dept of public health is incharge of immunization projects and he also is incharge of the vaccination supplies for alabama (and back up for GA). he has formulated plans for disasters (small pox outbreaks) and decides who gets how many vaccines.
i'm sure he does other stuff but that is what i spoke with him about.

i also like the management side of things....
with a MPH i think i would feel extremely qualified to start and corridinate local health related projects and actually have some positive PR when it comes to chains. ( i know wal-mart is doing a big HTN screening thing down here) yes you could do this as a pharmacist but it may take a little longer to work your way up.

Perhaps you would be more likely to be a DM???

I have also thought about working for a hosptial and work on alternative methods. in my public health classes in college we reviewed several alternative therapies (visualization, aromatherapy, massage, yoga, etc). i think it would be neat to incorporate different aspects into hosptial care and have a holisitc experience. (who wouldn't want a massage in the hospital)

i don't know that this is exactly the scope of the two degrees... just what i would like to do with the two.

I'm not really sure about the MPH/PharmD but... I know (well, pretty sure he's president) that the AL dept of Public Health main person is a pharmacist.
Also we have a couple of pharmacists on staff who work at the health departments (i'm not sure what they do b/c i didn't get a rotation with them :( ) And you can do a residency here in bham in public health.

the guy at the state dept of public health is incharge of immunization projects and he also is incharge of the vaccination supplies for alabama (and back up for GA). he has formulated plans for disasters (small pox outbreaks) and decides who gets how many vaccines.
i'm sure he does other stuff but that is what i spoke with him about.

i also like the management side of things....
with a MPH i think i would feel extremely qualified to start and corridinate local health related projects and actually have some positive PR when it comes to chains. ( i know wal-mart is doing a big HTN screening thing down here) yes you could do this as a pharmacist but it may take a little longer to work your way up.

Perhaps you would be more likely to be a DM???

I have also thought about working for a hosptial and work on alternative methods. in my public health classes in college we reviewed several alternative therapies (visualization, aromatherapy, massage, yoga, etc). i think it would be neat to incorporate different aspects into hosptial care and have a holisitc experience. (who wouldn't want a massage in the hospital)

i don't know that this is exactly the scope of the two degrees... just what i would like to do with the two.


thanks for the reply
DM=district manager?? i don't know what this means.
all you said sounds pretty interesting...i'm interested in administrative/educational opportunities so maybe this would be a good choice...I just don't know, guess I'll just have to keep researching it.

thanks for the reply
DM=district manager?? i don't know what this means.
all you said sounds pretty interesting...i'm interested in administrative/educational opportunities so maybe this would be a good choice...I just don't know, guess I'll just have to keep researching it.
yeah district manager...
sorry about that one...

i will probably end up going back to do one if i do decide i want a MPH

:( more school sucks!!!

yeah district manager...
sorry about that one...

i will probably end up going back to do one if i do decide i want a MPH

:( more school sucks!!!

agreed.

one other thing...
it has been my experience that if you attend a pharmacy school who does not currently have a program you want (do this during your 1st year) talk to them about it.

I spoke with some school officials last year about the MPH option (not currently offered) and they were very open to the idea and trying to set up an agreement with another university in town (assuming somewhere already has a program).
had i pursued it i may have been stuck in school for another year but i think they would have established it.

UF has both PharmD + MBA and PharmD + MPH programs depending on what type of management you wish to go into. You can read about them on their website www.cop.ufl.edu
I'm considering the UF PharmD/MBA program. I was curious to see what percentage of a PharmD class will pursue the joint MBA program, and how difficult it is to be accepted into the MBA portion. Thanks.

2 threads merged per user request

- Anna :)

I know at least one student who is doing the PharmD/MPH at Iowa. PM if you'd like her contact info...

I know at least one student who is doing the PharmD/MPH at Iowa. PM if you'd like her contact info...
done :thumbup:

Do anyone know the benefits of doing mph/pharmD? How much of an salary income with the mph degree? What kind of job would want a mph/pharmD duel degree? Thanks

That was my goal, unfortunately I didn't get into a school that offers this dual degree. Pfizer guide have a good overwiew of what a public Health pharmacist does. I will leave you another note later !

I too would like to hear more about benefits and opportunities with this degree combination. I would really like to pursue the PharmD/MPH, because I'm very interested in public health. I am interested in epidemiology and health behavior and promotion and how both relate to mental disorders. I want to get this degree for my own knowledge base and to satisfy my own curiosities, but it would be nice to know what kind of doors this combination may open up for me.

hey everyone, Ive got a few questions...

In order to get an MPH, which takes about a year full-time, will I need a bachelor's degree? or will it take longer if I don't have a bachelors?

What kind of career opportunities are there for pharmacists in epidemiology and public health, where I can utilize the PharmD/MPH combination?

Thanks..

hey everyone, Ive got a few questions...

In order to get an MPH, which takes about a year full-time, will I need a bachelor's degree? or will it take longer if I don't have a bachelors?

What kind of career opportunities are there for pharmacists in epidemiology and public health, where I can utilize the PharmD/MPH combination?

Thanks..

MPH is a master's program.... therefore you need a bachelor's degree and GRE score.... Also, if MPH is not part of a dual degree program, i think it requires 2 years of study unless you already have a professional degree

Have you checked out the MPH forum? They probably have more information than we do.

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/forumdisplay.php?f=94

MPH is a master's program.... therefore you need a bachelor's degree and GRE score.... Also, if MPH is not part of a dual degree program, i think it requires 2 years of study unless you already have a professional degree


UCSF has a joint MPH program with UC Berkeley, which I plan on attending, and it's only for 1 year after obtaining a PharmD. You can find more info at

http://pharmacy.ucsf.edu

^ Im kind of curious.... what do you want to do after graduation with both degrees?

^ Im kind of curious.... what do you want to do after graduation with both degrees?


Well my passion right now is personalized medicine and the whole prescription drug cost issue. I guess, I am thinking of working for the government (state or federal), or with insurance or pharma companies, and try to work on policy addressing any type of prescription issue. Also, I am interested in working to show the benefits of pharmacogenomics via lowering overall medical cost and adverse drug events.

These are my interests, but I am very much open to others. I feel an MPH will give me focus in this area along with my health policy pathway that we have here at UCSF. My emphasis here at UCSF and an MPH will give me the opportunity and leverage to work in these areas from what I have learned from others and from my own research. Adds some credibility, not much in comparison to a PhD but more than a PharmD alone and my health policy project.

Right now, I am working on a small study addressing personalized medicine somewhat indirectly, just on dosing methologies for various chemo drugs, trying to show how genetic tests, liver, kidney tests are more cost efficient than Body Surface Area as a guide for dosing. Its a great start I feel.

With more experience here at school along with networking, I hope to find other ways to apply this knowledge. That's plan for now. Anything can change.

^ very, very interesting..

Was it harder to get into the PharmD MPH program than just the regular pharmD program? What qualfied you?

Hi,
Wondering if anyone can tell me or lead me to find out what kinds of jobs/career choices that a pharmD with an MPH in health management can do?

esca007

MPH is a master's program.... therefore you need a bachelor's degree and GRE score.... Also, if MPH is not part of a dual degree program, i think it requires 2 years of study unless you already have a professional degree

Sorry but minor corrections...The PharmD would satisfy the need for a previous degree when applying for a MPH program (assuming the PharmD and MPH are being completed at different times). Some schools (I know Hopkins does this) also are willing to waive the GREs in place of the PCATs in the similar manner for med students (i.e. waiving GREs for MCATs).

hey everyone, Ive got a few questions...

In order to get an MPH, which takes about a year full-time, will I need a bachelor's degree? or will it take longer if I don't have a bachelors?

What kind of career opportunities are there for pharmacists in epidemiology and public health, where I can utilize the PharmD/MPH combination?

Thanks..

PharmD/MPH is an interesting combination and its application will depend largely on your interests. Unlike the PharmD/MBA combo, the PharmD/MPH combo isn't as likely to guarantee an increase in income after completing the degree.

Possible career options w/ the PharmD/MPH...

Applying statistical/epidemiology knowledge in any of the following fields:
Working for a dept of mental health, government/VA hospitals, helping w/ clinical trial data monitoring/collection in industry or at university/academic medical center setting, and CDC

Observational epi knowledge (i.e. WHO policies (influenza breakouts)), FDA monitoring drug Phase IV data, or even outcome data for industry (i.e. pharmacoeconomics/pharmacoepidemiology)

Or some w/ the combo just do clinical pharmacy or academia

PharmD/MPH in management may potentially be better suited getting MHA or MBA if management is the ultimate focus; however the focus on management would still lead the individual into an administrative capacity in the federal sector.


Possibly helpful links
www.apha.com (American Public Health Association)
www.aphanet.org
www.pharmacoepi.org (International Society of Pharmacoepidemiology)
www.ispor.org (International Society for Patient Outcomes Research)

Here is another site that provides information on opportuntities in public health pharmacy:

US Public Health Service (USPHS)
http://www.hhs.gov/pharmacy/main.html

I think that opportunities for pharmacists in public health will continue to grow but it seems to be a somewhat slow process from what I have read. In the past, many pharmacists doing "public health" work have not had formal training in public health (i.e., MPH degree) so I believe that the PharmD/MPH would be quite marketable. I have been a member of the American Public Health Association (APHA) for many years and last year I attended a few sessions at their annual meeting that dealt with public health issues related to the pharmacy profession, including pharmacists rights of refusal and building greater "cultural competency" among pharmacists and other health care professionals.

I am exploring many different options once I receive my PharmD and I hope to build on the years of work experience that I have had in public health. Like someone mentioned above, it doesn't really seem like the PharmD/MPH combination will give you much leverage for a higher pay grade over people with just a PharmD but the knowledge that you will obtain by getting your MPH will undoubtedly help you in your pharmacy career. I think that part of the reason why I was accepted into both schools that I applied to was that my public health degree and past experience really helped me to stand out.

What would you think about a combined PharmD/MPH (Master of Public Health) degree? Thanks.

What would you think about a combined PharmD/MPH (Master of Public Health) degree? Thanks.

Please see the following link where this issue was discussed previously. Links to various websites are also listed within the discussion:

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=224724

The new search engine really is great w/ finding previously discussed topics. :D

Hello Folks,
Touro University in Calfornia is set to offer a dual degree program and I would like to poll the audience for their opinons. What can be done and what would you do with a PharmD/MPH??

That is a geat question. I would also like to know what others think because I am about to complete my MPH and hopefully start pharmacy school next fall. I would love to be able to incorporate both degrees in my future career.

Hospital administration

At University of MD, you can go into different MPH concentrations such as world health, epidemiology, or public health. There are many government and international organizations that look for pharmacists.

This link has some good information in my opinion:

http://www.hhs.gov/pharmacy/phpharm/contents.html

Thought I'd revive this thread with the same question (which was never answered originally).

What kind of jobs would a dual degree in MPH/PharmD open up? Anyone know of any Pharm students who are pursuing this dual degree?

I googled Pfizer's guides, but only found dead links. Anybody have a link to a good source about the dual degree?

The University of Maryland School of Pharmacy has a working link to the Pfizer career guide:

http://www.pharmacy.umaryland.edu/studentorg/amcp/career%20information.htm

Here is another link to the U.S. Public Health Service that outlines various opportunities in public health pharmacy:

http://www.hhs.gov/pharmacy/phpharm/contents.html

Thought I'd revive this thread with the same question (which was never answered originally).

What kind of jobs would a dual degree in MPH/PharmD open up? Anyone know of any Pharm students who are pursuing this dual degree?

I googled Pfizer's guides, but only found dead links. Anybody have a link to a good source about the dual degree?

I would say what the MPH gives you would be the opportunity to move up in hospitals, health departments and teaching. I personally found public health dry, but I've seen enough professors or pharmacists that got kick-ass jobs to recognize the strength of an MPH.

http://www.pharmacy.umaryland.edu/studentorg/amcp/career%20information.htm.....



I would say what the MPH gives you would be the opportunity to move up in.....

Thanks to both of you.

i'm interested in pursuing a pharmd/mph. i was wondering if anyone could give me some information about it and what careers are available. i was thinking of just pursuing a mph alone but after reading the other forums it seems that the majority have that along with another degree.

I know at least one student who is doing the PharmD/MPH at Iowa. PM if you'd like her contact info...

Hi Dantay,

I saw your post re: PharmD/MPH. I am in the PharmD program and considering the MPH also. Is it okay if I can have the contact information of your friend who did PharmD and MPH?

Thanks.

Beachsaki101

Is the MPH degree useful in getting a good job? It seems to be useful for career advancement of physicians and nurses but I'm not too sure about pharmacists.

What kinds of ways might you be able to utilize such a degree combined with a PharmD?

I think masters of public health deals with how you can approach health issues on a large scale, both at the national and international level. I guess your primary focus would be drug/medication distribution. Perhaps you can research and explore how the unavailability of certain drugs can be of a disadvantage to a third world country. Or maybe you can work with a team of physicians, nurses, etc. and help treat patients overseas.

Although I am very far from a pharmacist and don't know if it is what I really want to do, I've been looking at some dual-degrees/ and comments about them. Some people say dual-degrees are useless, but if you ask me, I think it's creative when people try to think outside of the box and combine the disciples of their career with another field. I was thinking if there was such a thing like forensic pharmacy, hahaha, I don't know. Pharmacy and/or medicine with economics might also be interesting.

I think masters of public health deals with how you can approach health issues on a large scale, both at the national and international level. I guess your primary focus would be drug/medication distribution. Perhaps you can research and explore how the unavailability of certain drugs can be of a disadvantage to a third world country. Or maybe you can work with a team of physicians, nurses, etc. and help treat patients overseas.

Although I am very far from a pharmacist and don't know if it is what I really want to do, I've been looking at some dual-degrees/ and comments about them. Some people say dual-degrees are useless, but if you ask me, I think it's creative when people try to think outside of the box and combine the disciples of their career with another field. I was thinking if there was such a thing like forensic pharmacy, hahaha, I don't know. Pharmacy and/or medicine with economics might also be interesting.

Kentucky has a PharmD/MS Econ

I'm actually looking for feedback from pharmacists or current Pharmacy students..

they might have a good idea about marketability, career development strategies, etc.

i'm curious as to how some specific ways i might be able to combine a pharmd/mph........i.e. where would one work, and doing what, etc.?

Thanks!!!!

Pharmacists are under-utilized in public health, which tends to be run by doctors and nurses.

I'll demonstrate by way of example: a woman on methadone for drug addiction treatment developed active TB. I spoke to a nurse at Public Health, who pays for all TB drugs where I live, and I said, if you give her rifampin, it will increase the metabolism of her methadone. She will feel withdrawal symptoms and possibly relapse into drug use (she had been compliant, clean urines, for some time). I said, can you give her rifabutin instead? The nurse said, the patient's methadone dr was cognizant of the TB tx and would increase the methadone dosage prn.

Long story-short: they gave her rifampin, and the patient ended up relapsing into street drug use. But Public Health won't pay for rifabutin.

That same interaction with rifampin would apply to some HIV drugs.

Anyhow, this situation, and others I've run into through the years have convinced me that there's a role for pharmacists here.

i'm curious as to how some specific ways i might be able to combine a pharmd/mph........i.e. where would one work, and doing what, etc.?

Thanks!!!!

I will give you one sweet example of a door that an MPH could open:

Have you ever heard of the Epidemic Intelligence Service? I hadn't either, but it intrigued the **** out of me. I think it would be cool as **** to have the title "Disease Detective." Jobs similar to this become more realistic with a PharmD/MPH (eg, FDA, CDC, NIH, etc.)

http://www.cdc.gov/eis/about/hayslett.htm

Have you ever heard of the Epidemic Intelligence Service? I hadn't either, but it intrigued the **** out of me. I think it would be cool as **** to have the title "Disease Detective." Jobs similar to this become more realistic with a PharmD/MPH (eg, FDA, CDC, NIH, etc.)

Right. Just another excuse for you to keep on going to school and not enter the real world!

Right. Just another excuse for you to keep on going to school and not enter the real world!

Not sure of the reason for the random irrelevant shot, but I know how to play along. I say it is a very sad life for anyone who considers Walgreens their "real world." Just sayin'....

I say it is a very sad life for anyone who considers Walgreens their "real world." Just sayin'....

I agree. That's why I dont work for Walgreens...just saying.

Pharmavixen's post is intriguing. Speaking of combined degrees, I've always wondered why there aren't more pharmacists doing biological research in fields like microbiology/immunology, virology, etc.

pharmd/mph is a sweet combo...here is some more examples

http://www.pharmacy.unc.edu/faculty-research/faculty-spotlight/mick-murray/faculty-spotlight-mick-murray-pharmd-m-p-h

http://www.usc.edu/schools/pharmacy/faculty_directory/detail.php?

http://www.jmob.com/JMOB.COM/Welcome_to_JMOB.COM%21.html

http://www.mad-id.com/rybakbio.htm

I will give you one sweet example of a door that an MPH could open:

Have you ever heard of the Epidemic Intelligence Service? I hadn't either, but it intrigued the **** out of me. I think it would be cool as **** to have the title "Disease Detective." Jobs similar to this become more realistic with a PharmD/MPH (eg, FDA, CDC, NIH, etc.)

http://www.cdc.gov/eis/about/hayslett.htm

Wow! That is really sick! Are you a pharmD candidate? I had never heard of this before, though I was wondering how forensics could combine with medicine and/or pharmacy.

Kentucky has a PharmD/MS Econ

I'm actually looking for feedback from pharmacists or current Pharmacy students..

they might have a good idea about marketability, career development strategies, etc.

i'm curious as to how some specific ways i might be able to combine a pharmd/mph........i.e. where would one work, and doing what, etc.?

Thanks!!!!

Is that straight Econ or PharmacoEcon?
http://www.usc.edu/schools/pharmacy/clinicalpharmpep/pep/

The USC at 2008 ISPOR link (on the web page linked above) has some of the titles for poster presentations to get an idea what their research topics are.

I think combined degrees give you a significant edge over the competition in pretty much any field. I have an MBA with a healthcare mgmt specialization, and this is very desirable where I work. The combo PharmD/MBA or MHA, ect, will help push you to a senior level position in any pharmacy discipline that you choose. You really can't go wrong with a combined clinical / business degree, it's useful anywhere. With more and more schools offering the combined program in pharm school (ie. UK), you will begin to see a significant trend in the workforce in the future.

Best thing about getting an MBA though, most programs allow you to work full time while working on this degree :D (if you do it separate from the pharmD program). I was extremely happy about my program offering the healthcare specialization. After finishing your PharmD, an MBA will be a piece of cake.

I think combined degrees give you a significant edge over the competition in pretty much any field. I have an MBA with a healthcare mgmt specialization, and this is very desirable where I work. The combo PharmD/MBA or MHA, ect, will help push you to a senior level position in any pharmacy discipline that you choose. You really can't go wrong with a combined clinical / business degree, it's useful anywhere. With more and more schools offering the combined program in pharm school (ie. UK), you will begin to see a significant trend in the workforce in the future.

Best thing about getting an MBA though, most programs allow you to work full time while working on this degree :D (if you do it separate from the pharmD program). I was extremely happy about my program offering the healthcare specialization. After finishing your PharmD, an MBA will be a piece of cake.

It's really not even that bad to do the two programs simultaneously. I'm doing PharmD/MBA right now and both programs are very good about working with students to make it tolerable.

Does anyone know of anyone who has a mph and pharmd... if so what do they do? what field opportunities are available...

sorry if this is reposted.. when i searched I saw only MPH and MD and other stuff

I take it no one is a MPH/Pharmd

I take it no one is a MPH/Pharmd

I know someone who is a PharmD/MPH. She bores and aggravates 75 students twice a week by asking questions so vague that The Riddler would wet himself with joy if he came across her lesson plan, misspelling the President's last name, and mixing up HMO's and MCO's constantly.

I know of a few at the FDA...

I used to intern at a place where they had a pharmacy director who was an MPH/Pharm.D. He got laid off 3 months after that...Nothing really special with MPH or MBA.

I know of a few at the FDA...

Ditto. FDA paid for those MPH degrees though.

If your MPH focused on biostats/epidemiology I would opine that you'd have more opportunities in managed care and pharmacoeconomics type positions. Skills in data mining/number crunching and pharmacy are a good match. If it focused on the warm and cudly aspects of public health, not sure youll get much out of it.

I used to intern at a place where they had a pharmacy director who was an MPH/Pharm.D. He got laid off 3 months after that...Nothing really special with MPH or MBA.

yes, since you're using such a large sample size to make that claim..

yes, since you're using such a large sample size to make that claim..
I think it would be suprising how small that population that have pharmd/mph. Hell there's only 6k pharmd/bcsp

I think if you have an interest in working in the Public Health sector, it would do you well. If you are wanting to stay retail, probably not so much.

yes, since you're using such a large sample size to make that claim..

rxforlife2004 likes to make extreme generalizations from limited experience. You can see it in almost every single post he has ever made!:meanie:

rxforlife2004 likes to make extreme generalizations from limited experience. You can see it in almost every single post he has ever made!:meanie:
Anecdotes > Statistics...duH! :laugh:

im just wondering what types of jobs you would do or apply for? I do not know of anyone with a MPH/PharmD but I have seen some schools offer it.

MPH= useless. but that is my thoughts.

Does anyone know of anyone who has a mph and pharmd... if so what do they do? what field opportunities are available...

sorry if this is reposted.. when i searched I saw only MPH and MD and other stuff

It's primarily an academic degree which gives you training in drug information, health policy, and some epidemiology if I'm not mistaken. I know of two Pharm.D/MPH who do academia. Thinking of research?

i know a pharmd/mph, she works for ashp

It's primarily an academic degree which gives you training in drug information, health policy, and some epidemiology if I'm not mistaken. I know of two Pharm.D/MPH who do academia. Thinking of research?

As with any degree, its what you do with it that counts. Every MPH program out there is different but generally you can focus your studies on useful things like Health Management, Biostatistics, Epidemiology as well as some of the less useful warm and fuzzy topics like "health promotion." Just like with an MBA, after you graduate its up to you to sell yourself and the skills you gained. If you are interested in working for an HMO, biostats and health management knowledge will give you a leg up. If DOP is your thing then a management track MPH will serve you well. That said, I would never pay for one unless I have a clear goal in mind eg. Im looking at a particular career opportunity and the MPH degree would be directly relavent to it.

I'm actually looking to complete PharmD/MPH when in Pharmacy school. I think it would be useful for me as I'm looking to work with international health organizations like WHO, UN and others which will allow me to contribute my clinical knowledge with various aspects of public health.

Hello,

I am really flirting with thoughts of pursuing the PharmD/MPH track. Are there any prospective students out there, or if you're currently doing so at Iowa or Kentucky for ex., please share your thoughts and experience and how feasible this joint program is!! Are you simply over worked each semester (more than the average pharm school student) in trying to meet the requirements? Thanks for opining.

cheers

Don't some of these programs basically make you take a year off between P2 and P3 year to complete your MPH? It seems like it's a way more convenient way to do things than just getting your MPH after getting your PharmD.

Don't some of these programs basically make you take a year off between P2 and P3 year to complete your MPH? It seems like it's a way more convenient way to do things than just getting your MPH after getting your PharmD.

Yes, that is essentially what they do. For example, take a look at UF's PharmD/MBA curriculum (starting on page 5): http://www.cop.ufl.edu/studaff/mba.pdf

I'm highly considering it.

At Iowa, you don't take a year off. You take classes concurrently with your pharmacy classes, as well as over the summer, if you choose. Some take one or two classes over the summer and the rest with their pharmacy classes. Others take the majority of their mph classes over the summer and only pharmacy classes during the year. It's really up to you, as you plan your own personal mph schedule. There is a lot of freedom to get it done how you want to. Personally, I've found that taking 1 additional class, on top of the pharmacy classes, each semester isn't bad. I don't feel overworked and still have time to participate in student orgs and work as an intern. Everyone is different though. You can always try it out and if you don't like it, you can drop it. You're not losing out on any money (unless you take a summer class).

What's the role of a pharmacist in public health?

How can studying epidemiology and biostatistics aide the pharmacist in his practice?

Once disease spread, etc is understood what can a pharmacist, not being a diagnostician or able to provide treatment, do about it?

Serious questions here. No put downs.

I thought (as previously discussed in another post) that an MPH better prepared a clinical pharmacist to assume a wider role in a hospital environment (department head, administrator, etc).

I thought (as previously discussed in another post) that an MPH better prepared a clinical pharmacist to assume a wider role in a hospital environment (department head, administrator, etc).

I would think an MHA or even MBA would lend themselves better to an administrator role. There are a few admin-type classes in MPH curriculums, but why not choose a master's program relating solely to administration if admin is the sought after career path.

I think it's the difference between advancement at a retail pharmacy and at a hospital. You're more directly involved in healthcare at the hospital, and I thought the MPH lent itself nicely to improving your skillset in that area. While a hospital is a business, I think that the MBA is not the degree I would choose if I could only pick one (MBA or MPH).

I will admit I'm not familiar with the MHA. I'll have to look more into that.

I was looking at UW Madison and they offer a Masters in public health (MPH) program while you are working on your Pharm D and I was just wondering if there was any advantage to this ? because it didn't give a lot of useful/applicable information on their site

Also does anyone go to Madison. how do you like it ?

As discussed above, it all depends what you want to do in the future. An MBA has always been looked upon as a managerial type degree where the MPH focuses more on public health and healthcare needs of a population. Both degrees serve their purpose, yet differ in their backgrounds.

I chose to pursue the PharmD/MBA since I've always had an interest in business. Pharmacy has begun shifting more toward a more business-focus, and why not be prepared for the changes in pharmacy? Most people assume that if you're getting a PharmD/MBA, you'll want to open your own pharmacy, but that's not my case. Pharmacy is a growing practice, yet still has a foundation in the traditional aspects.

The best thing you can do regarding if an MPH or MBA is best for you is to research. Email different schools and see what getting a MPH or MBA has to offer for you. Will it complement your future goals?

Would an MBA and an MS in Pharmacy Administration serve similar purposes?

What's the role of a pharmacist in public health?

How can studying epidemiology and biostatistics aide the pharmacist in his practice?

Once disease spread, etc is understood what can a pharmacist, not being a diagnostician or able to provide treatment, do about it?

Serious questions here. No put downs.


This is kind of a dumb question. Getting an MPH background would assist you in doing outcomes research in your area of interest by yourself. For example, in ID, looking at trends in KPCs within your hospital and correlating it with antibiotic use. In transplant, looking at incidence in CMV among different populations and deciding how long to prophylax and with what agent. The list of examples is endless. And if you are good at what you do maybe you become the director of clinical outcomes for a department or hospital etc.

This is kind of a dumb question. Getting an MPH background would assist you in doing outcomes research in your area of interest by yourself. For example, in ID, looking at trends in KPCs within your hospital and correlating it with antibiotic use. In transplant, looking at incidence in CMV among different populations and deciding how long to prophylax and with what agent. The list of examples is endless. And if you are good at what you do maybe you become the director of clinical outcomes for a department or hospital etc.

You are going to be one damn fine optometrist....:laugh:

Does anyone know of anyone who has a mph and pharmd... if so what do they do? what field opportunities are available...

http://images.icanhascheezburger.com/completestore/2008/8/13/whoisyourdadd128630949095778931.jpg

As one earns more degrees the job market opens up a lot more. I am also going for a MPH after the PharmD and in talking with professors and others there seems to be a lot more you can do. Personally drug outcomes is interesting along with the field of pharmacoepidemiology. One professor had a previous career in industry and biostatistians and epidemiologist are in demand.

There is also the public health service, FDA, CDC, VA, among other agencies where a MPH would come in handy. I also think a community pharmacist with an MPH could be beneficial with MTM services, setting policies, data collection, and so forth.

simple

MPH - government role, business
MBA - business

if you have a professional doctorate already, why not go for the DrPH instead of MPH? you can get a DrPH in 3 years, MPH in 2. UNC has a 3 year DrPH program. It requires a dissertation but year 3 is mainly reserved for that.

Do any of you have any experience (or know anything about) doing an MPH while in pharmacy school but NOT as part of a dual program? My school has a new MPH program (with different concentrations) and I am highly interested. I was thinking (and I don't know how much this is true) that since there is a cap on resident tuition, if I completed an MPH while in pharmacy school, it would essentially be free. The MPH program offers some evening courses and some online so I am thinking it would be possible to do it during the regular semesters and the summers. It is a 42 credit program. Or...maybe I am just nuts? And if so, should I not bother with an MPH or wait until I get my PharmD and then try to do an MPH while I am working somewhere? The latter scenario would obviously be more expensive and perhaps useless, but I am hoping that an MPH will give me some mobility into other competitive sectors (some of which are mentioned in this thread- like the CDC). Furthermore, I know one of the faculty members in the Public Health programs/department and she said some PharmD students take some electives that are part of the MPH core curriculum. I wonder if they would count as dual credit... ??

EDIT: I am also not opposed to working in academia and I would enjoy research if that is where I should end up.

simple

MPH - government role, business
MBA - business

Actually a MPA would be the "government" equivalent of a MBA. A MPH is completely different.

UF has both PharmD + MBA and PharmD + MPH programs depending on what type of management you wish to go into. You can read about them on their website www.cop.ufl.edu (http://www.cop.ufl.edu)

that univ of florida is ridiculous. they offer pharmd;s from satelite campuses where you show up and watch video of lectures, then i see them advertise on websites with their distance/online pharmd. what a joke

that univ of florida is ridiculous. they offer pharmd;s from satelite campuses where you show up and watch video of lectures, then i see them advertise on websites with their distance/online pharmd. what a joke

I don't know if I would call it a "joke." But yes, it's worrisome to say the least!

if you have a professional doctorate already, why not go for the DrPH instead of MPH? you can get a DrPH in 3 years, MPH in 2. UNC has a 3 year DrPH program. It requires a dissertation but year 3 is mainly reserved for that.

why waste time and money on something that wont change where you will be?

it is like getting an Rph vs a pharmd . it had NO BENEFIT

Do any of you have any experience (or know anything about) doing an MPH while in pharmacy school but NOT as part of a dual program? My school has a new MPH program (with different concentrations) and I am highly interested. I was thinking (and I don't know how much this is true) that since there is a cap on resident tuition, if I completed an MPH while in pharmacy school, it would essentially be free. The MPH program offers some evening courses and some online so I am thinking it would be possible to do it during the regular semesters and the summers. It is a 42 credit program. Or...maybe I am just nuts? And if so, should I not bother with an MPH or wait until I get my PharmD and then try to do an MPH while I am working somewhere? The latter scenario would obviously be more expensive and perhaps useless, but I am hoping that an MPH will give me some mobility into other competitive sectors (some of which are mentioned in this thread- like the CDC). Furthermore, I know one of the faculty members in the Public Health programs/department and she said some PharmD students take some electives that are part of the MPH core curriculum. I wonder if they would count as dual credit... ??

EDIT: I am also not opposed to working in academia and I would enjoy research if that is where I should end up.

My situation is very similar. The Pharmacy and MPH programs are separate. I am taking online classes and trying to complete the "core" MPH classes while in pharmacy school, they count toward elective credits for pharmacy. I still have to apply to the MPH program however. After pharmacy school it is just another year of course work for the MPH not too bad. The only hang up might be the practicum course, but that is still a few years away.

that univ of florida is ridiculous. they offer pharmd;s from satelite campuses where you show up and watch video of lectures, then i see them advertise on websites with their distance/online pharmd. what a joke

That is not what we do, I assure you. I hate those distance/online PharmD ads also. They are for practising pharmacists though, so they are not quite as bad as they first appear. But I still hate them. I also hate how many students they take, far to many. Of course I am a complete hypocrite, seeing as how I am directly benefiting from the expanded admissions.