Status of Pharmacy Administration Education in China: A Survey of Undergraduate Curriculum and Faculty

Background: Pharmacy Administration (Ph.A) became a formal part of undergraduate curriculum in China in 1987. Despite recent growth and diversification, Ph.A curricula remain relatively understudied. Aims: To describe and analyze the status of undergraduate Ph.A education in China. Methods: Survey of pharmacy schools conducted through interviews over the telephone or in person. Results: Among 201 eligible schools, 111 (55%) had a Ph.A curriculum offering a total of 399 courses. Core courses were offered in administration (53%), marketing (15%), jurisprudence (6.5%), systems and regulations (4.8%), and pharmacoeconomics (4.8%). Curricula varied in credit hours and content. A total of 276 staff members were involved in teaching (49% female, 47% part - time) with 79% holding a Master’s degree or less. Sixty - three (57%) schools only utilized part - time faculty. Conclusion: Course structure and content are variable and entry qualifications for teaching staff are lower than for other divisions. Establishing curriculum guidelines and allocating resources to support and attract qualified faculty are recommended.