Program Overview

Introduction to the BSc Undergraduate Program

The Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics has been offering BSc degrees in Major and Honours Pharmacology for almost four decades. Students are accepted into the Major and Honours specializations at the end of year 1 through the Faculty of Science Specialization Application process.

Program Structure

Following acceptance into the program, introductory exposure to the discipline will be through PCTH 201 (Drugs and Society). The second year of study will be primarily extra-departmental pre-requisite courses, helping build background knowledge for the pharmacology courses in the third and fourth years of study. The program emphasizes the fundamental principles of drug action in the body, the application of these compounds in therapeutic situations, and the mechanisms by which they act.

Practical Exposure and Skills

Students will have practical exposure to the experimental and laboratory aspects of pharmacology, learning whole-animal and isolated-tissue techniques, as well as biochemical and chemical procedures. Additional skills stressed include the ability to search for information, design appropriate experiments, carry out experiments individually and as a member of a team, objective and critical data analysis, and effective written and oral communication.

Co-op Work Experience Program

Students in both the Major and Honours Pharmacology specializations can optionally choose to enroll in the co-op work experience program, where they spend 12-16 months in academic or industrial laboratories between their third and fourth years of study. Application to enter co-op must be done prior to October 1 of year 3 in the program.

Admission Information

The pharmacology program is highly competitive, with a limited number of students admitted during the Specialization Process. To maximize chances of acceptance into the Pharmacology Specialization, students will need to have completed all prerequisites and are likely to require a minimum average of 75% in Year 1. Progression from Year 2 to Year 3 requires successful completion of all pre-requisite courses.

Specialization Change Requests

Applicants wishing to transfer into PCTH are assessed on their grades in Years 1 and 2 and may be interviewed by the Pharmacology Undergraduate Advisor. Preference is given to students who have completed all prerequisite courses with at least 60 credits in their combined Year 1 and 2 winter sessions.

Program Requirements

• Completion of all prerequisites
• Minimum average of 75% in Year 1
• Successful completion of all pre-requisite courses for progression from Year 2 to Year 3
• Interview with the Pharmacology Undergraduate Advisor for transfer students
• Application for co-op work experience program prior to October 1 of year 3

Program Outcomes

The BSc Undergraduate Program in Pharmacology aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of pharmacology and the skills necessary for a career in research, industry, or further education. Graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue a variety of career paths, including research and development, regulatory affairs, and healthcare.