An elective course on dermatological topics and cosmeceutical compounding.
OBJECTIVE
To implement and assess a pharmacy dermatology and cosmeceutical compounding elective course and its impact on graduates' careers.


METHODS
A 3-credit elective course that incorporated classroom lectures on ambulatory dermatologic diseases and cosmeceutical products with case studies, weekly quizzes, and a comprehensive business plan project was implemented in a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program in 2010.


RESULTS
Assessment instruments including weekly quizzes, a business plan project, and pre- and post-course tests were used to evaluate course content. Across 3 offerings of the course (2010, 2011, 2012), pre- and post-course test scores improved. Results of a postgraduate survey showed that 54% of respondents worked at a pharmacy offering compounding services, and 57% felt that the course played a significant or very significant role in their counseling on dermatologic conditions.


CONCLUSIONS
Assessment methods revealed student learning of course content and the course appeared moderately beneficial to graduates' early careers. A more longitudinal analysis is needed to assess the course's impact on long-term career choices, particularly those dealing with compounding of cosmeceutical products.
Mylan School of Pharmacy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Jamie L
JL
McConaha
Plextronics, Inc., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Phillip T
PT
Lunney
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002321:Career Choice; D003358:Cosmetics / Q000737:chemistry*; D003479:Curriculum; D003880:Dermatology / Q000193:education*; D004339:Drug Compounding; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000379:methods*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013339:Students, Pharmacy / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*
D003358:Cosmetics
compounding; cosmetics; dermatology; elective course