Competency-based education in pharmacy- Challenges, opportunities, and the path forward

Competency-based education (CBE) is an essential framework for preparing pharmacy graduates to meet evolving healthcare demands. While existing competency frameworks emphasize foundational knowledge, patient-centered care, and interprofessional collaboration, they often lack structured mechanisms for advanced specialization and career-specific skill development. This paper advocates for a paradigm shift in pharmacy education, transitioning from a current competency “I-shaped” skill model, which prioritizes clinical expertise, to a “comb-shaped” model that fosters broad, interdisciplinary competencies. Integrating customizable modules can restate pharmacy curricula to support lifelong learning, global mobility, and adaptability to emerging professional roles. Drawing insights from competency-based models like the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) competency model and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Competence by Design (CBD) model, this paper proposes a modular, flexible approach that balances core competencies with specialized career pathways. A structured approach is outlined to support curriculum designers in implementing adaptive frameworks that enhance specialization opportunities while ensuring the retention of fundamental professional standards. By embracing this modular and competency-driven approach, pharmacy education can better equip graduates for diverse career trajectories in research, industry, regulatory affairs, digital health, and clinical practice, thus reinforcing its relevance in an evolving healthcare landscape.