Predictors of Success Rate in the California State Board of Pharmacy Licensure Examination

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine performance predictors for the California State Board Examination (CSB exam). This information will provide quality assurance data to the Curriculum Committee at the University of Southern California School of Pharmacy. Graduates (N=166) from the 1998 Doctor of Pharmacy program were surveyed regarding their preparation for the examination, study habits, demographics, work experience, current position, and National Association of Boards of Pharmacy Licensure Examination (NABPLEX) results. Surveys were coded to track responses and to permit the inclusion of academic records in the factors analyzed. Success was defined as successfully passing the examination on the first attempt. One follow-up mailing was sent to nonresponders. A total of 113 graduates responded to the mail survey yielding a response rate of 68 percent. Of those responding to the survey, 112 reported having taken the June 1998 examination and 101 reported a passing score. Only 11 (9.8 percent) who responded did not pass. In the total cohort (N=166), individuals who passed the CSB exam had a significantly higher Pharmacy School grade point average (GPA), (3.28 ± 0.35) than those who failed (2.88 ± 0.32), P<0.05. All students who reported taking the NABPLEX passed. Non-responders were significantly more likely to have failed the CSB examination. GPA in pharmacy school was identified as an important factor in predicting success on the examination.