Prerequisites are courses that are required for entry into the PharmD program; students may choose any major, though it is common to choose a science major that overlaps heavily with the prerequisites. A bachelor's degree is preferred, but not required. Prerequisites must be completed before beginning the PharmD program; they can be planned or in progress while applying to the program, but applicants are expected to take no more than two prerequisites in the summer immediately prior to entering the program. Prerequisite courses must be complete by August 1 of the year in which you begin the program; for example, for Fall 2026 admission, courses must be complete by August 1, 2026.
Applicants are responsible for ensuring that they are on track to fulfill prerequisites by using the guides of preapproved courses below, or confirming with admissions staff by obtaining a prerequisite evaluation.
General Biology
Microbiology
Anatomy and Physiology (human or comparative)
Requirement: A full anatomy and physiology (A&P) sequence covering all systems of the body; human-focused courses and courses including labs are recommended if availble
Calculus
Requirement: One course; must be college-level calculus
Statistics
Requirement: One course; must be college-level statistics
General chemistry
Requirement: Full general chemistry sequence; generally, two courses and at least one lab
Organic chemistry
Requirement: Full organic chemistry sequence; generally, two courses and at least one lab
Social & behavioral sciences OR Humanities
Requirement: Two courses or completion of MN Transfer Curriculum, US associate’s degree, or US bachelor’s degree
Introductory composition
Requirement: One course or completion of MN Transfer Curriculum, US associate’s degree, or US bachelor’s degree;