Pacific Pharmacist Career Pathways
Supported by the Office of Student Affairs

There are numerous types of Postgraduate Year Two (PGY2) residencies that you can explore. The term specialization is used interchangeably with PGY2 since all PGY2 residency programs lead to increased specialization. A PGY2 residency  require that an applicant complete a Postgraduate Year One (PGY1) residency first. Therefore, a PGY2 is designed to build upon those competencies developed by a PGY1.  All ASHP accredited residencies are full time commitments and will take about a year to complete. PGY2 residencies participate in the Resident Matching Program (RMP). Some programs that offer both PGY1 and PGY2 residencies may offer a PGY1 resident an "early commitment offer" to stay at their organization to complete a PGY2. 

As a potential resident for a PGY2 you should:

• Have a definite liking for the area of practice.

• Research the area as much as possible by reading articles and talking to specialists in that field. 

• Become familiar with the accreditation standards for PGY2 programs in the area of interest. 

Please click here to read the ASHP Accreditation Standard for PGY2 Pharmacy Residency Programs. 

Questions you must consider when evaluating whether a PGY2 program is a good fit for you:

• What is the vision for the pharmacy program?

• Is this an established program that has graduated previous specialty residents in the area?

• Does the program director view the PGY2 residency as a long term mutually beneficial relationship?

• Do all personell seem content with their positions?

• Do the program director and key preceptors seem to have a desire for ongoing improvement in their clinical and educating skills?

• Is education and training part of the mission of the institution?

• What types of research  have past or current residents performed and were the results published?