New, online PharmD program opens access to education at UH-Hilo

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is accepting applications for a new program that brings the Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy online.

The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy is offering a new online pathway to break educational barriers for working Hawaiʻi residents with its Extended, Online Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree program beginning January 2026.

This innovative 5 1/2-year program enables working adults and caregivers to pursue their Doctor of Pharmacy degree through online coursework—with annual two- to four-week on-campus immersions for hands-on training during the first 4 1/2 years—followed by a final year of full-time clinical rotations at pharmacy practice sites.

“This is a much-needed resource for our island state, which will allow aspiring pharmacists to continue living and working in their communities while pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree,” said Dr. Rae Matsumoto, dean of the Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy.

The Extended, Online Doctor of Pharmacy is the only online PharmD program that guarantees all clinical rotations can be completed in Hawaiʻi, offering unparalleled networking opportunities for students hoping to practice in the islands.

Pharmacists can fill critical healthcare gaps as physician shortages intensify. With 20% of Americans living in rural areas, but only 10% of physicians practicing there, pharmacists are uniquely positioned to expand access to care.

“As we address the physician shortage affecting rural communities nationwide, pharmacists trained to practice at the full scope of their license can provide vital healthcare services where they’re needed most,” says Dean Matsumoto.

Nearly 90% of Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy, making pharmacists the most accessible healthcare providers.

For more information on the new program, visit the Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy website, email pharmacy@hawaii.edu or call to speak with an admissions specialist at 808-932-7704.