Pharmacy students must be aware of prescription drug abuse in patients and provide advice on how to use drugs effectively. Classes teach students how to inform patients of the dangers of potential chemical interactions and overdoses. The School of Pharmacy at the University of Connecticut's coursework includes drug abuse prevention. Ohio State University pharmacy students helped create an online package of prescription drug abuse information for schools and other organizations.
Pharmacists are surrounded by an array of drugs while at work, so pharmacy schools educate students on the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. This can take the form of classes or behavioral policies, like the policy at the University of Maryland. The school encourages all students to refrain from abusing substances and from pressuring others to do the same. The pharmacy students sign a pledge to be drug-free, get information on drug abuse treatment and have all their health information kept confidential.
Pharmacy schools implement special programs to increase the diversity of the student body. Xavier University's program pairs pharmacy students with high school students from underrepresented minority groups and prepares them for pharmacy school. The high school students participate in experiments and field trips during the university's summer program. The applicants must attend school in New Orleans and submit a letter of recommendation and a transcript.