About the Program

Consistent with the missions of the Graduate division, the College, and the University, the Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MS Pharmaceutical Sciences) prepares pharmaceutical scientists with the theory and practice of the profession with graduates who will be committed to the welfare of the general public, and to ongoing personal and professional self-improvement.  The Program prepares higher-level scientists for roles in basic research and applied aspects of pharmaceutical sciences in the areas of Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmaco-therapeutics, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology or Industrial Pharmacy.

The program will prepare graduates to:

Demonstrate competent evaluation of scientific literature

  • Analyze and critique scientific papers related to Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Demonstrate skill in literature searches with on-line databases
  • Evaluate the experimental design and methodology of scientific papers

Demonstrate competency in the Pharmaceutical Sciences SUBSPECIALITIES.

  • Perform analytical techniques, and apply rigorous statistical methods, critical thinking and effective communication in:
    • Medicinal Chemistry: modeling design and synthesis of therapeutic agents
    • Pharmacology: ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion), pharmaco-dynamics, and pharmaco-kinetics 
    • Industrial pharmacy: pre-formulations and formulations, new drug delivery systems, nanotechnology, routes of administration, pharmaco-therapeutics
  • Pharmaco-therapeutics ability of the nurse practitioner/physician assistants to better utilize drug in the patient care settings
  • Pharmaceutical biotechnology theory and application of molecular biology techniques in the development of biological agents
  • Demonstrate understanding of ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) in the context suitable for each specialty
  • Define and explain “safety” and “efficacy” from Pharmaceutical Sciences point of view.
  • Design in vivo, in vitro and/or clinical studies to assess the efficacy of therapeutic agents
  • Use computer databases to obtain information on the structure and biological effects of therapeutic agents

Demonstrate fundamental competency in applied areas of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmaco-therapeutics, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Industrial Pharmacy

  • Exhibit comprehensive understanding and the ability to apply specific principles to subspecialties as demonstrated in course presentations, term papers, course examinations.
  • Exhibit basic understanding and the ability to apply specific principles to subspecialties as demonstrated in the Comprehensive Examinations.
  • Perform research using modern techniques and equipment (Plan A students)

Apply knowledge and skills to public understanding of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

  • Evaluate the political, socioeconomic, and emotional costs of dealing with Pharmaceutical Sciences issues, including issues of social justice as applied to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
  • Communicate effectively through oral presentations, written communication, and poster displays.