• Brandon J Patterson, Oscar W Garza, Matthew J Witry, Elizabeth H Chang, Donald E Letendre, and Coralynn B Trewet.
• The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy, Iowa City, Iowa.
• Am J Pharm Educ. 2013 Dec 16; 77 (10): 223.

ObjectiveTo develop and implement a flexible-credit elective course to empower student pharmacists to develop lifelong leadership skills and provide teaching practice opportunities for graduate students.DesignAn elective course focusing on leadership development for second- and third-year doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students was designed and taught by 4 graduate students under the mentorship of 2 faculty members. Student pharmacists could enroll in a 1-, 2-, or 3-credit-hour version of the course.AssessmentAttainment of course objectives was measured using student pharmacist reflection papers and continuing professional development portfolios. Additionally, self-assessments of graduate students and faculty members delivering the course were conducted. In their responses on course evaluations, student pharmacists indicated they found the course a valuable learning experience. Graduate students found course development to be challenging but useful in developing faculty skills.ConclusionThis flexible-credit elective course taught by graduate students was an innovative way to offer formal leadership instruction using limited college resources.

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