Program Overview

Pharmaceutical Science Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Pharmaceutical Science at Xavier University provides students with the critical skills necessary for pharmacy school and beyond. The program is rooted in chemistry, biology, and pharmacology, with added expertise in drug discovery, development, and regulation. Hands-on labs and research prepare students for advanced studies or a career in pharmaceutical research, sales, or development.

Curriculum

The BS in Pharmaceutical Science program offers chemistry, biology, and business curriculum tracks. The program includes a comprehensive exploration of the study of drugs, covering pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, mechanisms of action, and real-world challenges in drug discovery and approval.

Outcomes

• 98% of Xavier students are working, volunteering, or in graduate school within six months of graduating (Class of 2023).
• Xavier students have an 86% acceptance rate to medical schools (5-year average, Class of 2022), compared to 40 percent nationally.
• Top employers for chemistry graduates include AstraZeneca, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Gravity Diagnostics, and SafeWay Pharmacy.

Sample Courses

• Pharmacology (BIOL 310): A comprehensive exploration of the study of drugs, covering pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, mechanisms of action, and real-world challenges in drug discovery and approval.
• Microbiology (BIOL 200): A foundational exploration of clinically significant microorganisms, their functions, control mechanisms, impact on disease, and interactions with host immune responses.
• Medicinal Chemistry (CHEM 435): An exploration of the scientific and economic aspects of medicinal chemistry, covering the discovery, structure-activity relationships, synthesis, and mechanisms of action of various drug classes.

Clubs

• Alchemyst Club: A vibrant community for students interested in chemistry and related fields, offering academic support, community outreach, professional development, and social events.
• Alpha Epsilon Delta (Pre-Med Honor Society): A national pre-health honors organization for juniors and seniors, focusing on service to the Cincinnati community.
• Minorities in STEM Succeeding Together: A supportive community dedicated to empowering minority STEM majors, providing a space to thrive, connect with peers, and build confidence.
• Pre-Med Student Association: A club for students interested in pursuing a career in the health professions, offering bimonthly events, hosting medical school representatives and physicians, and providing information about future careers.

Related Programs

• Related Majors:
  • BS in Biology
  • BS in Biochemistry
  • BS in Biological Sciences for Business
  • BS in Biomedical Sciences
  • BS in Biophysics
  • BS in Chemistry
• Related Minors:
  • Applied Health Sciences
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Clinical Science Management
  • Population Health
  • Psychology

Program Features

Undergraduate Research

Develop essential research skills by exploring pharmaceutical science topics that interest you most with the undergraduate research program. Gain hands-on experience, develop research skills, and work alongside expert faculty.

Mentor Program

The Xavier Mentor Program connects you with working professionals in the pharmaceutical industry, including pharmacists, drug researchers, and developers, ensuring your success beyond a degree.

Jesuit Education

Beyond the science, you'll explore the ethical considerations necessary to advance drug discovery, development, and delivery in a responsible and beneficial manner.

Location

Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, you'll have access to internships, mentorships, and career opportunities in the nation's premiere hospitals and research facilities.

About Xavier University

Xavier University is a private university located in Cincinnati, Ohio, providing a liberal arts education in the Jesuit Catholic tradition. Founded in 1831, the University is the sixth-oldest Catholic university in the nation. It has been ranked among the top 10 master's-level universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report for the past two decades. The Princeton Review names it one of the "Best 385 Colleges in America."