In an era of specialization and globalization, pharmacy education is grappling with significant challenges and shortcomings. Despite the immense growth potential of the pharmacy profession, it remains limited by outdated standards that do not meet international expectations. Many students still receive practical training based on methods that are 20-30 years old, resulting in graduates who are often ill-equipped for the modern demands of the field. Seven Hills College of Pharmacy (Autonomous) addresses these gaps by striving to produce capable and skilled pharma professionals. It stands out as an institution that fosters an environment conducive to developing internal skills and attributes, while nurturing professionalism through critical thinking and innovative practices.
Seven Hills College of Pharmacy in a Nutshell
Seven Hills College of Pharmacy (SHCP) was established in 2007 by the Global Vision Educational & Welfare Society as a dedicated institution for pharmacy education. Located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, the college has been shaping future pharmacists for over 17 years. SHCP offers a range of programs including a 4-year Bachelor of Pharmacy, a 6-year Doctor of Pharmacy, a 2-year Master’s degree in three specializations—Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Analysis, and Pharmacology—as well as a 03 Years Full time Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Renowned for its educational excellence, the autonomous institution has received numerous accolades. It holds an “A” Grade accreditation from NAAC, recognition from UGC under 2(f) and 12(B) of the UGC Act 1956, and was ranked in the 102-125 band in the NIRF Indian Rankings 2022. Additionally, SHCP was ranked 50th in the Swachh Campus Rankings by MHRD, Government of India, among other distinctions. To its excellence the institute has been recognized as Swachhatha Action Plan Institution and Green Institutional Mentor for Sanitation & Hygiene, Waste Management, Water Management, Energy Management and Greenery by Mahatma Gandhi National Council of Rural Education Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Government of India.
The faculty at Seven Hills College of Pharmacy (SHCP) consists of highly qualified and experienced professionals committed to delivering quality education and mentorship to students. The college has a total of 53 faculty members, including 25 doctorates and 28 postgraduates with M.Pharmacy & Pharm.D qualifications.
Seven Hills College of Pharmacy offers comprehensive student support services, including mentor-mentee interactions, academic advising, and career guidance, to help students manage academic stress, plan their career paths, and address personal concerns. The college also emphasizes holistic student development by organizing and encouraging participation in extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and student clubs, fostering teamwork, leadership skills, and personal growth. To prioritize student health and well-being, the institution conducts health camps and awareness programs and provides access to medical facilities in collaboration with external organizations. Additionally, a robust feedback mechanism enables students to voice their concerns and suggestions, allowing the administration to promptly address issues and implement improvements.
Enhancing Practical Learning
Seven Hills College of Pharmacy actively implements various strategies to enhance the practical learning experiences of its students. These include internships, industrial visits and training, research opportunities and more. The college regularly organizes visits to pharmaceutical industries, research laboratories to provide students with real-world exposure in their respective fields of pharmacy.
In addition to academic & research collaborations, we are committed to building a bridge between our students and leaders from the pharmaceutical industry. Throughout the year, we organize interactive sessions with top industrialists, entrepreneurs and academicians who are at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of pharmaceutical Sciences.
The curriculum encourages students to engage in research projects under the mentorship of faculty supervisors, offering seed grants for student-led research initiatives and supporting them in publishing their findings and presenting at conferences. Pharm.D students undertake a one year internship in PCI-recognized hospital Sri Padmavathi Medical College for Women – SPMCW (SVIMS), Tirupati with a capacity of 1000 beds, while B.Pharmacy students complete a one-month industrial internship at Pharmaceutical Industries as part of their curriculum requirements to build a strong foundation for their careers.
Advancing Research and Innovation
Research and innovation are integral to the pharmacy programs at Seven Hills College of Pharmacy (Autonomous), Tirupati. The institute is recognized as a research center by Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Anantapur, Ananthapuramu, and is equipped with excellent research facilities for conducting Ph.D. programme in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
The institute has been sanctioned ₹18,74,000 by the All India Council for Technical Education, New Delhi, for two research projects. Additionally, six faculty members have received seed grant of ₹11,30,716 under the Research Promotion Scheme for the academic year 2023-2024. During the same period, the faculty has published 46 research and review articles in high-indexed national and international journals.13 patents has been published and 9 design patents has been granted by the faculty members. 06 Books and 32 book chapters has been published by the faculty. Faculty of our institute has been granted Rs. 1,76,062 for organizing a 5 day faculty development programmes, Rs. 3,33,333/- for short term training programme and Rs. 50,000/- for conference from funding agencies.
In the Days to Come
When asked about the future aspirations for Seven Hills College of Pharmacy, Founder & Principal Dr. M. Niranjan Babu expressed a vision centered on several key objectives. He highlighted the commitment to delivering a cutting-edge curriculum and employing innovative teaching methods in pharmacy education. To expand the research infrastructure, attract leading faculty & student scientists, and collaborate with international institutions to create groundbreaking discoveries in drug development and healthcare delivery.
On a broader scale, Dr. M. Niranjan Babu emphasized the college’s commitment to promoting pioneering research by both faculty and students in advanced pharmaceutical sciences. He also highlighted the goal of enhancing collaborations with central research units to achieve optimal research outcomes. “Our ultimate aim is to maintain high standards in education, research, and industry partnerships, with the aspiration of achieving global recognition and acclaim,” concluded the Principal of SHCP.