Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Science in Pharmacology Program

The Master of Science in Pharmacology (MSP) program at the University of California, Irvine is a two-year, online degree program designed to equip students with advanced scientific literacy and a robust foundation in pharmacology, drug discovery and development processes, and experimental data analysis.

Program Overview

This program is best suited for working professionals in the pharmaceutical industry and related fields who are seeking an advanced degree while working full-time. A Master of Science in Pharmacology can pave the path for a career in pharmaceutical research and development (R&D), regulatory affairs, clinical research, or academia.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A bachelors degree from a recognized and accredited academic institution with degree standards equivalent to UC
• A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• A minimum of two years of undergraduate coursework related to biology and/or chemistry
• A minimum of one year of laboratory experience (e.g., employment, research, coursework)
• English Language Proficiency: All graduate applicants, except those who have earned an undergraduate or masters degree from an institution at which English was the sole language of instruction according to the World Higher Education Database, are required to demonstrate English proficiency for admissions consideration.
  • TOEFL (minimum score of 80)
  • IELTS (minimum overall score of 7)

Application Process

To apply to the program, applicants must complete the UCI Graduate Division's online application for admission and upload the following materials:

• Personal statement: The personal statement should include a personal history describing professional and academic achievements, and in particular, laboratory and research experience; current and future goals, specifically how and why the MSP will help achieve them; and understanding of the challenges of online learning and readiness to participate in this type of instructional modality.
• Three letters of recommendation uploaded to the application directly by individuals who can evaluate academic and/or professional achievements, describe strengths and weaknesses, and comment on character, integrity, and motivation.
• Unofficial transcripts uploaded to the application. (Official transcripts will be requested by the Graduate Division if admitted and plan to enroll.)
• Non-refundable application fee

Priority and Final Deadlines

• The priority deadline for applications is March 17.
• The final deadline to apply is June 14.

Program Requirements

The program consists of 13 required courses (39 units) to be completed sequentially over two years of study (six quarters).

Required Courses

• PHARM 270: Applied Pharmacology 1
• PHARM 271: Principles of Pharmacology
• PHARM 272: Receptors and Drug Targets
• PHARM 274: Research Techniques in Pharmacology
• PHARM 276: Experimental Design and Data Analysis
• PHARM 277: Ethics in Scientific Research
• PHARM 278: Concepts in Drug Discovery
• PHARM 279B: Special Topics in Pharmacology II
• PHARM 280: Master's Project in Pharmacology
• PHARM 281: Neuropharmacology
• PHARM 282: Behavioral Pharmacology
• PHARM 283: Cardiovascular Pharmacology
• PHARM 284: Endocrine, Respiratory, and Gastrointestinal Pharmacology

Capstone Requirement

The capstone paper is written while the student is enrolled in PHARM 280. The student, in consultation with their faculty mentor, selects a topic of interest in pharmacology. The final product will be evaluated by the mentor and the course director for acceptability in meeting the capstone requirement.

Advancement to Candidacy

Students submit an application for advancement to candidacy in the fifth quarter of study. The capstone research project and required courses for the fifth and sixth quarters must be completed before the degree will be conferred. The normative time to degree is two years.