New Program Provides Path to Pharmaceutical Education

May 24, 2026 - 03:41

Keck Graduate Institute and Glendale Community College have launched a joint initiative aimed at making pharmacy education more accessible. The program, called the CC to PharmD pathway, creates a streamlined route for community college students to enter the pharmaceutical field.

Under the partnership, students at Glendale Community College can complete prerequisite coursework and then transition directly into KGI's Doctor of Pharmacy program. This eliminates some of the traditional barriers that often prevent community college graduates from pursuing advanced degrees in healthcare. The pathway is designed to reduce both the time and cost associated with earning a PharmD, while also providing academic support and mentorship along the way.

Officials from both institutions emphasized the need for more diverse professionals in pharmacy. By tapping into the community college system, the program aims to recruit students from a wider range of backgrounds, including those who might not have considered a career in pharmaceuticals. The first cohort of students is expected to begin the pathway in the upcoming academic year.

This collaboration reflects a broader trend in higher education where universities and community colleges work together to create clear pipelines into specialized fields. For students in the Glendale area, it offers a practical and affordable option for entering a growing profession.