(151) Fostering Innovation: A Curricular Track for Business and Entrepreneurship

Objective : To outline the process by which a curricular track was developed and share the impact that it has had on student pharmacist participants.

Methods: Started in 2013, the Kennedy Pharmacy Innovation Center Business & Entrepreneurship Program (B&E Program) provides an opportunity for student pharmacists to be exposed to core business knowledge and pharmacy-focused entrepreneurial training through the selection of appropriate electives, advanced experiential rotations, co-curricular activities, and networking opportunities. To fulfill requirements outlined in Standard 4 of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education 2016 Standards, students may opt in during their first or second professional years and have through their fourth professional year to complete the requirements. In 2021, the B&E Program underwent significant changes to better align the required activities with a set of pre-defined knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs). Students who complete the program are required to maintain a portfolio of their accomplishments. Descriptive results will be shared about the program.

Results: Beginning with the Class of 2019, 76 students have expressed interest in completing the B&E Program. Of those students, 25 began the program by completing at least one activity, with 20 students (80%) completing all activities and earning a certificate. Anecdotal evidence from participants suggests that the B&E Program develops skills similar to an MBA without the additional financial cost and time commitment, with an emphasis on innovation. An outline of the program requirements, quotes from participants, and best practices for engaging students throughout the program will be shared.

Conclusions: The B&E Program is a unique way for students to gain key business and entrepreneurship skills within the context of the pharmacy profession.