What is the primary purpose of the Pharmacy Curriculum Outcomes Assessment (PCOA)?

The primary purpose of the Pharmacy Curriculum Outcomes Assessment (PCOA) is to measure the knowledge and skills of pharmacy students. This assessment serves as a comprehensive evaluation tool designed to gauge the understanding and competencies of students regarding the core areas of pharmacy education. By identifying students' strengths and weaknesses in their knowledge base, the PCOA aids educators in curriculum development and helps ensure that students are adequately prepared for professional practice.

The PCOA focuses specifically on assessing the foundational knowledge necessary for pharmacy practice and is not concerned with evaluating the performance of pharmacy schools overall, the regulatory environment of pharmacy practice, or the financial aspects of pharmacy programs. This targeted measurement allows for feedback that can enhance the curriculum and improve student outcomes effectively.