Considerations for Offering an Extended Online Doctor of Pharmacy Program.

An extended, online Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD-XO) pathway with immersion experiences for laboratory skills and experiential learning was launched to address existing and emerging challenges in pharmacy education and practice. This pathway is responsive to the changing demographics of students pursuing higher education with an increased focus on adult learners who are balancing life and school responsibilities. This pathway is also responsive to enrollment and workforce shortages by engaging a different population of pharmacy student prospects and providing an option for them to continue living and working in their communities while pursuing a PharmD degree. Significant trends in pharmacy education and practice, along with key advantages and disadvantages of the PharmD-XO pathway, are summarized and warrant consideration as pharmacy programs align with workforce needs and consumer demand to maintain relevance and growth.