SWOSU Pharmacy Launches Pharm.D./MSHIM Dual-Degree Program

Left to right: Teri Stubbs (Instructor in HIM), Paige Robinette, Sarah Lane, Campbell Coffey, Zoe Van Etten, Iris Gonzales, Megan Presley, Madilyn Lee, Dana Lloyd (Director of HIM), Dr. Hardeep Saluja (Chair of Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences), and Dr. Les Ramos (Dean of the College of Pharmacy).

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is proud to introduce the Pharm.D./Master of Science in Health Information Management (MSHIM) dual-degree program, which combines the Doctor of Pharmacy and master's degree in health information management. This program represents a significant advancement in healthcare education, integrating clinical expertise with health data management. In Spring 2024, SWOSU welcomes its inaugural class, with seven Doctor of Pharmacy students admitted to this dual-track program:

• Campbell Coffey from Prague, Okla.;

• Iris Gonzales from Sulphur, Okla.;

• Madilyn Lee from Yukon, Okla.;

• Sarah Lane from Jones, Okla.;

• Megan Presley from Shawnee, Okla.;

• Paige Robinette from Waukomis, Okla.;

• Zoe Van Etten from Fair Play, Mo.

The collaboration between the SWOSU College of Pharmacy and the College of Nursing and Health Professionals has been pivotal in establishing this program. Together, these faculties seek to advance healthcare education, launching a program at the forefront of the industry.

The integration of clinical and informatics education provides students with valuable skills. Graduates will be well-prepared for various roles, with SWOSU being the second institution nationwide to offer this unique program. Additionally, the MSHIM program at SWOSU is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Information and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), making SWOSU one of the 12 programs in the nation with this accreditation. This allows students to pursue Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) credentials upon completion.

The new MSHIM program at SWOSU is entirely online, ensuring flexibility for students and making it possible for them to study from anywhere. The program's curriculum implements clinical pharmacy practices with modern health data management techniques. Students in the program will learn about various aspects of healthcare, including drug development, patient care, health data analytics, and digital health strategies. Graduates will have diverse career opportunities in clinical, research, technology, and management roles.

Detailed guidelines on eligibility, application procedures, and program specifics will be available on the SWOSU website. Prospective students, especially those enrolled in the SWOSU College of Pharmacy, are encouraged to explore this dual-degree pathway. For more information, contact Dr. Hardeep Saluja, Chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at [email protected].

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Since 1901, Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has proudly stood on the hilltop in Weatherford, Oklahoma. Offering over 100 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon, SWOSU provides a diverse range of academic opportunities with high-quality education to its students. The university boasts a vibrant community of nearly 5,000 scholars and over 200 dedicated faculty and staff. With strong academic programs and a commitment to excellence, SWOSU continues to be a top choice for students seeking a quality education.