Appalachian College of Pharmacy

Appalachian College of Pharmacy (ACP) stands as a unique institution, born from a critical need to address pressing health challenges and foster economic development in rural Appalachia. Founded in 2003, ACP was established by local leaders in Buchanan County, Virginia, in response to an alarming local mortality rate that was 42% higher than the rest of the state, coupled with a severe national pharmacist shortage. It was envisioned not just as an academic institution, but as a powerful tool for regional revitalization.

The college's journey began as the University of Appalachia, College of Pharmacy, matriculating its inaugural class in August 2005 and celebrating its first graduates in May 2008. To facilitate its accreditation process with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and more accurately reflect its singular, standalone nature, the institution proudly adopted its current name, Appalachian College of Pharmacy, in March 2009. This evolution underscored its focused mission and distinct identity within the higher education landscape.

Under the leadership of President Michael McGlothlin, ACP is dedicated to training healthcare professionals who are ready to make a tangible impact. The college offers a comprehensive Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program, a Doctor of Public Health, and a Certified Pharmacy Technician program. These rigorous academic offerings are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve medically underserved communities, directly addressing the regional health disparities that inspired the college's founding. Students at ACP gain a unique experience, contributing directly to community well-being while advancing their professional careers.

Beyond its educational mission, Appalachian College of Pharmacy has fulfilled its role as an economic catalyst. Its presence has stimulated significant local growth, including new housing, restaurants, and retail establishments within a short distance. The college is estimated to inject an impressive $20 million per year into the local economy, demonstrating its profound and multifaceted positive impact on the Appalachian region.