Our Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceuticals Science program will equip you with the knowledge and skills you’ll need to change the world with a career in the pharmaceutical industry, academic research laboratories, and biotechnology companies.
Graduates of this program may also pursue advanced degrees oriented toward research (M.S. / Ph.D.) or clinical practice (Pharm.D., M.D., etc.). Pharmaceutical sciences includes a variety of disciplines such as pharmacology, pharmaceutics, medicinal chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacogenomics that are related to the discovery and development of new drugs and pharmacotherapies to treat diseases and improve people’s lives.
This program is also offered as part of an accelerated dual degree program in conjunction with the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.). The course work in the fourth year of the B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences program is synonymous with the coursework in the first year of the Pharm.D. program – enabling both degrees to be completed within 7 years rather than the typical 8 years.
Another available option is to take it in conjunction with the M.S. (thesis) or M.A. (non-thesis) degrees in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The B.S. / M.A. dual degree can be completed in 5 years, while the B.S./M.S. (thesis option) dual degree typically requires 6 years.
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Experience a well-rounded education, emphasizing drug discovery, development, and commercialization.
Can be taken as part of an accelerated dual degree program in conjunction with the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.). The coursework in the fourth year of the B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences program is synonymous with the coursework in the first year of the Pharm.D. program – meaning both degrees can be completed in 7 years instead of the typical 8 years.
Is also offered in conjunction with the M.S. (thesis) or M.A. (non-thesis) degrees in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The B.S. / M.A. dual degree can be completed in 5 years, while the B.S./M.S. (thesis option) dual degree typically requires 6 years.
Pharmaceutical Sciences offer a world of possibilities to make a meaningful impact. The career paths are vast and rewarding, ranging from groundbreaking research and clinical trials to ensuring product safety and promoting innovative treatments. Whether you prefer working in a lab, developing life-saving medications, or guiding patients toward better health, there’s a place for you in this dynamic field.
The difference between hiring someone with a B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. often lies in the management chain and the level of project supervision. While higher degrees are required for management and supervisory roles, a BPS degree opens doors to various positions, such as:
Primary Career Areas
- Drug Discovery and Design
- Drug Delivery
- Drug Action
- Clinical Sciences
- Drug Analysis
- Pharmacoeconomics
- Regulatory Affairs
- Marketing and Sales
- Pharmaceutical Scientist/Research Scientist – Discover, develop, and test new drugs and therapies.
- Pharmacologist – Study the effects of drugs and chemicals on living organisms to understand their effectiveness and side effects.
- Medicinal Chemist – Design and synthesize new chemical compounds with therapeutic potential.
- Clinical Research Associate – Oversee clinical trials, develop protocols, and ensure quality control.
- Laboratory Technician – Conduct experiments, perform tests, and analyze data to support scientific research.
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturer – Manage the production of pharmaceutical products, ensuring high-quality standards.
- Quality Assurance/Quality Control Specialist – Ensure all products meet stringent quality and regulatory requirements.
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist – Guide pharmaceutical products through regulatory processes to achieve compliance and approvals.
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative – Promote pharmaceutical products and educate healthcare professionals about innovative treatments.
- Medical Science Liaison – Act as a scientific expert, providing insights about pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers.
- Pharmacist – Dispense medications and provide expert advice on their use.
- Pharmacy Technician – Assist pharmacists in various tasks, including dispensing medications.
- Drug Safety Specialist – Monitor the safety of drugs after they enter the market.
- Biostatistician – Analyze clinical trial data to evaluate drug efficacy and safety.
- Data Scientist – Leverage data analysis to enhance drug development and patient care.
A BPS can also be the foundation for pursuing advanced education and specialized training, including:
- Graduate School: MS or PhD
- Medical School: MD, DO, or PA
- Dental School: DDS or DMD
- Business School: MBA
- Law School: JD
- Veterinary School: DVM
- Pharmacy School: PharmD
Pharmaceutical scientists focus on discovering, developing, evaluating, and manufacturing new medications. They work in laboratories, studying how compounds interact with disease-causing cells and the human body to determine if they can be developed into effective drugs. Pharmacists evaluate medication use, collaborate with other providers, prepare and dispense medications, and educate patients about their treatments.
The B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences emphasizes research and innovations to advance human health, while the Pharm.D. focuses on clinical practice. The B.S. in BPS focuses on the science of drug discovery, development, and manufacturing. It’s ideal for those interested in being on the cutting edge of medical innovation whether doing research in the lab, evaluating drugs in the clinic, or optimizing pharmaceutical manufacturing. A PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy) prepares students to become licensed pharmacists who work directly with patients, healthcare providers, and medication management.
A B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences opens doors to diverse career paths at world-class pharmaceutical, biotechnology, consumer product, and healthcare companies as well as government agencies. Graduates often work in research and development, quality control, manufacturing, regulatory affairs, marketing, and sales. Roles may include pharmaceutical research associate, regulatory specialist, formulation scientist, clinical research coordinator, and more.
You’ll take courses in areas such as chemistry, biology, pharmacology, formulation, manufacturing, and regulatory science. Additional topics may include biostatistics, biomedical research techniques, and biotechnology. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in the principles of biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences and hands-on laboratory experience.
Absolutely! The B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences program is an excellent choice if you’re interested in research and development. You’ll gain knowledge and skills in drug discovery, formulation, testing, and manufacturing—essential areas for R&D careers in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and related fields.
Yes, the B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences program offers numerous opportunities for hands-on learning. These may include internships with pharmaceutical companies, research projects, laboratory coursework, and collaborations with industry professionals. Gaining real-world experience is a crucial part of preparing for a successful career in the biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences.
Pharmaceutical Sciences graduates are sought after by industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, food and beverage, healthcare, and regulatory agencies. Companies ranging from world-class pharmaceutical manufacturers to biotech startups, research institutions, and government agencies often hire graduates for various roles in research, quality control, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs.
Yes, the BPS program provides a strong scientific foundation that can be an excellent stepping stone for graduate school or medical school. Many students use the degree as a pathway to advanced studies in pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical research, medicine, or related healthcare fields.
The BPS program equips you with valuable skills such as analytical thinking, laboratory techniques, research methodologies, problem-solving, critical thinking, regulatory knowledge, and effective communication. You’ll also gain practical experience through internships, lab work, and collaborative projects, making you a well-rounded candidate for various pharmaceutical roles.
The B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences is typically completed in 4 years of full-time study. The program includes a combination of foundational coursework, advanced biomedical and pharmaceutical science classes, lab work, and experiential learning opportunities.