As health care systems across the nation put greater focus on advanced training and real-world readiness, pharmacy graduates face increasing pressure to distinguish themselves.

With heightened competition for residency programs, Cedarville University’s School of Pharmacy continues to exceed national placement averages, demonstrating that a faith-based education can produce both skilled and highly sought-after professionals.

For the ninth time in 10 years, Cedarville surpassed national residency match rates, with 86% of its 2025 postgraduate year one (PGY1) applicants securing positions. That figure rises to 88% when including graduates from previous classes, well above the national average of 81%.

“Our students continue to set themselves apart,” said Dr. Zach Jenkins, professor of pharmacy practice. “Not only are they strong academically, but they demonstrate leadership, service, involvement in research and a commitment to excellence that reflects our mission.”

While national match rates have climbed, Cedarville has remained ahead of the curve thanks to a culture of consistency. That success reflects the combined efforts of dedicated students, mentoring faculty and clinical preceptors who invest deeply in the professional and spiritual development of each student.

Residencies offer students the opportunity to gain three to five years of practical experience, helping them enter the field with increased confidence and competence. But Cedarville’s approach is not solely about encouraging residencies; rather, it’s about helping students discern the path God has for them.

“At Cedarville, we believe being faithful is success,” said Jenkins. “We don’t push students in a single direction. Instead, we encourage them to consider how they are best equipped to serve God. For many, residency is the right fit, but it’s about being faithful to what God is calling them to.”

Cedarville also offers an optional residency preparatory elective, helping students prayerfully explore their calling and equipping them with practical tools if they choose to pursue postgraduate training. Clinical experiences through hospitals, pharmacies and health systems further help students build readiness for either residencies or direct entry into pharmacy careers.

In a rapidly changing healthcare landscape, Cedarville continues to offer forward-looking professional development that includes training in leadership, time management and emerging trends such as artificial intelligence.

“Many of our students are matched with well-known, respected programs like the Cleveland Clinic and Johns Hopkins,” Jenkins added. “That speaks volumes about the quality of students we have at Cedarville.”

Cedarville University, a Baptist institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduateprograms in residential and online formats across the arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by the Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.