WNEU PharmD Class of 2020 Earns High Marks on NAPLEX

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University’s (WNEU) doctor of pharmacy class of 2020 achieved a pass rate of 93.22% on the NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination), marking the third consecutive year the program has exceeded the national average pass rate. The pharmacy program at Western New England University is one of only three schools in the northeast with a NAPLEX pass rate greater than 90% in each of the last three years.

The NAPLEX was developed by the National Assoc. of Boards of Pharmacy for use by the state boards of pharmacy as part of their criteria for assessing candidates’ competence to practice pharmacy. The exam is taken by recent pharmacy graduates shortly after they receive their degree and is designed to evaluate general-practice knowledge.

“We are thrilled about the success of our class of 2020 graduates on their NAPLEX exams,” said Beth Welch, associate dean for Academic Affairs and professor of Pharmacy Practice. “This marker demonstrates the strength of our students, our curriculum, and our faculty. Western New England University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences continues to be a leader in preparing excellent pharmacists in the state and the entire Northeast.”

The College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences educates the leaders of tomorrow in the health and wellness fields through innovative doctoral programs. The PharmD program integrates science, communication, ethics, management, and practical learning in an interprofessional approach. Each student is trained in the theoretical and practical aspects of pharmacy and has the tools to become a well-rounded healthcare professional, able to effectively dispense medicine, knowledge, and advice to patients.

“This result demonstrates that the college is offering a top-quality pharmacy program,” said Dr. John Pezzuto, professor and dean of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. “Graduates who can pass the NAPLEX on their first attempt are valued by employers. I am very pleased that the efforts of our students and our outstanding faculty have resulted in excellent exam pass rates for the third consecutive year.”