Student Professionalism: Development and Implementation of a Curricular Competency Statement and Professionalism Policy at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy

• Published in: Journal of pharmacy teaching 2005, Vol.12 (2), p.5-24
• Main Authors: Duke, Lori J., Francisco, George E., Herist, Keith N., McDuffie, Charles H., White, Catherine A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1044-0054; 1540-7365
• DOI: 10.3109/J060v12n02_02

ABSTRACT As part of the evolution of professionalism within the College, a curricular competency statement was developed. Following initial development by an ad hoc committee at the 2003 AACP Institute, a Professionalism Committee was created at the College. The charge was to develop a policy addressing professional behaviors and attitudes, and to identify mechanisms to increase student awareness regarding the importance of professionalism. It was determined that the policy, while not punitive in nature, needed to be powerful enough to delay or prevent academic progression of students displaying chronic or severe episodes of unprofessional behaviors. Following its development, the policy was approved by the faculty. The terminal and enabling objectives are currently being mapped to required courses within the Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum. By establishing standards and policy governing professional attitudes and behaviors, student professional development throughout the curriculum should become more consistent.