Campus News

Rockford University and the University of Illinois Chicago Retzky College of Pharmacy are proud to announce an innovative partnership that creates a streamlined, accelerated pathway for aspiring pharmacists. The new 3+4 program allows students to earn both their Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Pharmacy degrees in just seven years—saving time and tuition while positioning them for early career success.

Students in the 3+4 pathway will complete three years at Rockford University before transitioning to UIC Retzky College of Pharmacy on either their Rockford or Chicago campus. After their first year at UIC, they’ll earn a Bachelor of Science from Rockford University, and after three more years, a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD). This accelerated program saves students a year of tuition, allows them to begin their pharmacy careers sooner, and connects them to two strong alumni networks. They’ll also benefit from early mentorship with UIC pharmacy students, faculty, and staff while completing their studies at Rockford University.

“One of the great things about having a campus in Rockford is getting to partner with exceptional institutions like Rockford University, helping students from northern Illinois on their path to becoming pharmacists and serving the community, pharmacists are among the most trusted healthcare professionals.” said Dr. Kevin Rynn, Vice Dean of the UIC Retzky College of Pharmacy in Rockford.

This collaboration addresses a pressing workforce challenge. In the United States, pharmacy job postings reached 16,537 in the fourth quarter of 2024, reflecting sustained demand amid a persistent pharmacist shortage (Pharmacy Demand Report, 2025). Illinois faces a particularly acute situation—many pharmacies, especially in central and southern regions, have reduced hours or closed, despite offering starting salaries up to $125,000 plus $75,000 signing bonuses (Reeder, 2024). By developing this accelerated 3+4 pathway, Rockford University and UIC Retzky College of Pharmacy are offering an innovative solution to strengthen the future pharmacy workforce—helping fill these critical roles more swiftly, improving patient access, and supporting healthcare across Illinois and beyond.

“This innovative partnership gives our students a clear, supportive path to achieving their dreams of becoming pharmacists,” said Dr. Patty Lynott, President of Rockford University. “By streamlining the journey to a PharmD, we’re helping them save time and tuition, and launch their careers with the confidence and preparation that comes from two outstanding institutions.”

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For further information, please contact Kayla Eddy, Rockford University Marketing Coordinator, at keddy@rockford.edu.