Introduction

The Pharmacy Study Program at the Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, is dedicated to producing competent pharmacists who contribute significantly to healthcare systems in Indonesia and globally. Established with a commitment to excellence in pharmaceutical education, research, and service, the program provides comprehensive training in pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacy practice, and healthcare delivery.

Program Overview and Objectives

The Pharmacy Study Program at Brawijaya University is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to excel in various pharmaceutical settings. The program aims to:

  • Develop students' understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, including pharmacology, pharmacotherapy, pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, and pharmacokinetics.
  • Cultivate practical skills necessary for medication therapy management, pharmaceutical care, and drug information services.
  • Foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and ethical decision-making in pharmaceutical practice.
  • Prepare graduates to work effectively in healthcare teams, contributing to patient care and public health.
  • Encourage research engagement and scholarly activities to advance pharmaceutical knowledge and practice.

Curriculum Structure

The Pharmacy Study Program typically follows a semester-based curriculum spanning 8 semesters (4 years) for the undergraduate program, followed by 1-2 years of professional pharmacy education. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with national standards and international best practices in pharmaceutical education.

The core courses include:

  1. Foundation Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Pathology.
  2. Pharmaceutical Sciences: Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacotherapy, Biopharmaceutics, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics.
  3. Pharmacy Practice: Pharmacotherapeutics, Clinical Pharmacy, Community Pharmacy, Hospital Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Care, and Drug Information Services.
  4. Specialized Courses: Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Management, Regulatory Affairs, Pharmaceutical Technology, and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology.
  5. Electives: Students may choose from specialized courses based on their interests and career goals.
  6. Research Project: Final year students undertake a research project under faculty supervision.
  7. Clinical/Industrial Training: Practical training in hospitals, community pharmacies, pharmaceutical industries, and research institutions.

Academic Policies and Requirements

Admission to the Pharmacy Study Program at Brawijaya University is competitive, based on academic performance in the national entrance examination and specific eligibility criteria. The main academic policies include:

  • Attendance: Students are required to maintain minimum attendance requirements for lectures, laboratory sessions, and clinical rotations.
  • Assessment: Continuous evaluation through quizzes, assignments, mid-semester examinations, and final examinations.
  • Grade Requirements: Students must maintain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) to progress through the program.
  • Credit Requirements: Completion of all required courses and credits as specified in the curriculum.
  • Code of Conduct: Students must adhere to professional ethics, academic integrity, and university regulations.
  • Graduation Requirements: Successful completion of all program requirements, including courses, research project, and professional placement.

Student Support Services

The Pharmacy Study Program provides various support services to facilitate students' academic success and personal development:

  • Academic Advising: Faculty members provide guidance on course selection, academic progress, and career planning.
  • Library Access: Comprehensive collection of pharmaceutical textbooks, journals, and electronic resources.
  • Laboratory Facilities: Well-equipped laboratories for pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutics, and pharmacognosy.
  • Tutoring Services: Peer tutoring and faculty consultation for challenging subjects.
  • Counseling Services: Mental health support and counseling for personal and academic challenges.
  • Career Counseling: Guidance on career paths, job opportunities, and further education.
  • Student Organizations: Pharmacy student associations for professional development and networking.

Research Opportunities

The Pharmacy Study Program at Brawijaya University emphasizes research as an integral component of pharmaceutical education. Students have opportunities to engage in various research activities:

  • Undergraduate Research Projects: Final year students conduct research under faculty supervision, contributing to pharmaceutical knowledge.
  • Faculty Research: Students may participate in ongoing faculty research projects.
  • Collaborative Research: Partnerships with other universities, research institutions, and pharmaceutical industries.
  • Research Grants: Opportunities for research funding through university and external grants.
  • Publications and Presentations: Encouragement to publish research findings in academic journals and present at conferences.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Pharmacy Study Program at Brawijaya University have diverse career opportunities in various sectors:

  • Community Pharmacy: Providing medication therapy management and health services in community pharmacies.
  • Hospital Pharmacy: Working in hospitals, managing drug therapy, and providing clinical pharmacy services.
  • Pharmaceutical Industry: Employment in drug manufacturing, quality control, regulatory affairs, research and development, and marketing.
  • Government Agencies: Roles in drug regulation, public health programs, and policy development.
  • Academic Institutions: Teaching and research positions in universities and colleges.
  • Research Organizations: Conducting pharmaceutical and biomedical research.
  • Clinical Research: Participating in clinical trials and research projects.