Pharmacy Practice Lab Renovations

This past summer, the Pharmacy Practice Laboratory, located in the basement of the Pharmacy building, was completely gutted and rebuilt. The new facility is completely up-to-date and noticeably larger than the last one, as the lab was expanded to include the offices on either side.

Early concept drawing of the new lab facility

The old Pharmacy Practice lab was designed and built when the BS (Pharmacy) was the required degree for the profession. Since then, the six year Pharm.D. program has become the required degree. The Pharm.D., with its emphasis on clinical education, requires different laboratory and classroom spaces for optimal learning. Because of its design, the old Pharmacy Practice lab did not provide the optimal learning environment.

By renovating the laboratory space, the School of Pharmacy addressed the needs of our students as well as their future employers and patients. The renovation allows more flexibility in using the space and provides the latest technology found in pharmacy practice. For example, patient counseling and communications is an essential component of pharmacy practice. The renovation has four counseling rooms for the students to practice their skills (see the plans). Video technology was also incorporated so that instructors can effectively assess students and easily provide them feedback to improve their skills.

Demolition of the old facility began during Finals Week in the Spring 2006 semester, as soon as classes were over. The new lab was dedicated on October 26, 2006. You can read the University News Service article about the dedication or view photos of the dedication ceremony.