How UW Offers Exceptional Clinical Training 

We believe that the best way to learn is by doing. That's why we've developed a clinical training program designed to prepare you for your first job and a thriving, long-term future in pharmacy. 

Complete Your Application

At UW, we don't just talk about patient care — we immerse you in it from day one. This hands-on approach ensures that when you graduate, you're not just knowledgeable but confident and competent in your skills.

At the core of our PharmD program are Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs) and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs). These clinical rotations provide direct experience with patient care and exposure to different pharmacy settings, helping you to identify your preferred career pathway during your time at UW–Madison.

But what do IPPEs and APPEs really mean?

PharmD student Reem is in the thick of her rotations and explains what these clinical experiences really entail—what you'll actually do during these rotations, how long they are, and shares the behind-the-scenes moments that showed her new possibilities in pharmacy.

Read Reem's rotation breakdown
PharmD student with patient

What sets UW's clinical training apart

Learn from the best in the field

Our clinical instructors and preceptors bring real-world expertise from top hospitals, clinics, and community pharmacies directly to your education. These experienced professionals are mentors committed to your growth in a supportive environment that values every student's success.

Extensive variety of rotation choices

With many specialized rotations available, from international APPEs to residency-track options, we offer over 1,500 clerkships to help students explore their career interest. 

Boundless professional opportunities 

Surrounded by five nationally recognized hospitals with a multitude of clinics and healthcare providers, students engage in practical patient care experiences, internships, job shadowing, and mentorship opportunities just steps away.

The best preparation for an amazing pharmacy career

Our outstanding outcomes reflect our commitment to preparing you for success—but why does this preparation matter?

99
%

Employment
within 90 days of graduation

#
3

Highest NAPLEX
first-time pass rate

100
%

ASHP Residency Match Rate
among the highest in the nation

PharmD student Alyssa in white coat

Applying what you’re learning in pharmacy settings

What do PharmD students actually do in their clinical rotations? Explore all the different sides of pharmacy and find where you truly belong. These rotations connect classroom learning with real patient care. Student Alyssa shares how these hands-on experiences let you actually apply what you've been learning and discover what pharmacy practice really looks like in action.

Read now

From nervous beginner to confident future pharmacist

Nuelle may have started with zero pharmacy experience, but UW's approach to clinical training changed everything. Through hands-on rotations that build on each other, she transformed into a practice-ready pharmacist who can confidently step into her future career. See how the right training builds both competence and confidence.

Read More
PharmD student Nuelle in white coat
As a preceptor, I have seen the difference in preparation and readiness for residency from a UW student compared to students from other pharmacy schools. I think UW produces well rounded pharmacists that are engaged in their community and professional organizations.
PharmD Alum
Survey Comment
Our education perfectly translates to the real world. Learning extensive clinical knowledge and communication skills that allows us to practice at the top of our license.
PharmD Alum
Survey Comment
I have been a preceptor for fourth year pharmacy students for 3 different pharmacy schools. The UW students were more prepared for real-world practice and dealing with real patients and scenarios compared to the other students.
PharmD Alum
Survey Comment
I was extemely well-prepared for my residency experience right after school. I was able to get licensed in another state immediately and fully participate in my onboarding/training as a licensed pharmacist.
PharmD Alum
Survey Comment
Students that come out of UW have a broader range of knowledge than students from other pharmacy schools. They also are better prepared to research evidence-based solutions to health care problems, better at communication, and better at problem solving in creative ways.
PharmD Alum
Survey Comment
The program is rigorous, however I felt well prepared for residency. Interprofessional education was a big part of our training, and this helped me seamlessly integrate within care teams.
PharmD Alum
Survey Comment
I felt that I was exposed to and prepared well for residency, which had not been the case for some of my co-residents. I think the close connection with multiple residency programs benefits students greatly.
PharmD Alum
Survey Comment