Addiction or abuse of alcohol or other substances of abuse is a serious issue among healthcare providers, and pharmacists in general. The College of Pharmacy understands the seriousness of the problem and also recognizes addiction as a disease that results in harm to both the patient with the disease and those around them. The College is committed to educating students concerning alcoholism and other substances of abuse and assisting students with addiction problems who seek help. In addition, the College conducts random drug screening of student urine and hair samples to identify students with substance abuse problems.

Current College policy provides for a partnership with the Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy to assist students with evaluation and treatment of substance abuse problems. Students who come forward with a history of substance use, abuse, or addiction, prior to a positive drug screen are suspended for one academic year and referred to the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy for assessment, treatment and monitoring. Such students are allowed to re-enter into the College of Pharmacy Program after their suspension provided they complete the requirements of the Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy and are able to maintain a current Pharmacy Intern License in the State of Louisiana. Reinstatement to the program may be accompanied by further requirements and/or sanctions by the Committee on Ethical and Professional Conduct.

Students screening positive for illegal substances, prescription drugs not prescribed for them, or designer drugs, prior to seeking assistance, will be dismissed from the program. Students wishing to appeal this dismissal may do so through the Committee on Ethical and Professional Conduct; However, no student with a positive drug screen will be readmitted to the College of Pharmacy prior to undergoing an assessment, treatment and monitoring program with the Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy.

Students identified as abusers of alcohol, including binge drinking or having an addiction to alcohol may also be required to seek assessment, treatment and monitoring.

The College reserves the right to deny admission to students having a problem with the abuse and/or addiction to alcohol or other substances of abuse or dismiss students identified with these problems that refuse assessment, treatment and monitoring.

In the interest of public health and safety, all students enrolled in the professional program of the College of Pharmacy shall self-disclose to the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (ADAA) any tickets or charges since the initial program application involving alcohol or illegal drugs or misdemeanors and felonies of any type no later than five (5) business days following the arrest, ticket or charge. Details and disclosure form can be found at: http://ulm.edu/pharmacy/documents/ospa/selfdisclosureform.pdf

Counseling Services - All Campuses

The College of Pharmacy recognizes the vital role mental health plays in the well-being and success of its students, faculty, and staff. College community members facing challenges related to learning, psychological, or chemical dependency concerns can access support, treatment referrals, and follow-up care through the Office of Student and Professional Affairs (OSPA).

The OSPA offers the services of licensed mental health counselors, who provide confidential and professional support for personal and professional challenges. These counselors assist in managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues and are also credentialed to deliver telehealth services.

When appropriate, community resources are utilized to meet community members' specific needs. Referral methods are tailored to the individual circumstances of each person, and OSPA maintains regular follow-ups to ensure they receive the necessary support.

A healthier College of Pharmacy community fosters greater engagement, focus, and productivity. By providing mental health support, we affirm our commitment to promoting well-being and cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment. 

Any person having been convicted of a drug related felony will not be admitted to the professional program of the College of Pharmacy.

Policy/Form