M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences:
Medicinal Chemistry Concentration
Preparing professionals for futures in research, industry, regulatory agencies and academia
Grounded in advanced pharmaceutical sciences coursework and immersive laboratory experiences, our Master of Science (M.S.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a concentration in Medicinal Chemistry provides specialized knowledge and skills in drug design, synthesis and molecular evaluation. This program emphasizes the intricate processes involved in creating and optimizing therapeutic compounds, preparing you to advance health care through innovative pharmaceutical solutions.
Graduates of this program at VCU are well-prepared for impactful careers in pharmaceutical research, development and manufacturing, or to pursue further advanced degrees and professional opportunities in health sciences.
Program Details
About
Two-year, full-time in-person program
The Master of Science in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in medicinal chemistry program offers students a comprehensive exploration of the synthesis, analysis and design of pharmaceutical compounds aimed at treating diseases effectively and safely. Students complete a thesis involving in-depth research they will conduct in the program. With a focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of drugs, this program prepares graduates to contribute to advancements in health care through innovative research and development in the pharmaceutical industry or academia.
Administration and Research
This degree is administered by the Department of Medicinal Chemistry.
- Program director: Shijun Zhang, Ph.D.
- Research focus areas
- Faculty and staff
- Info for current students
For questions about our program, email us at pharmsciadmit@vcu.edu or complete our Request Info Form.
Key Degree Links
The links below are to entries in VCU Bulletin, the official source for course and academic program information.
Application Info
How to Apply
- Complete the VCU graduate application ($70 fee; add 'Med Chem' under either Concentration/Specialization column in the form)
- Submit the following materials with your application:
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of intent
- Other supporting documents
- International student? Visit the VCU Graduate International Applicants page for requirements and materials you'll need to provide
| Due Date for Fall Entry | Decision Notification |
|---|---|
| Feb. 1 | Rolling |
Questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or email pharmsciadmit@vcu.edu.
Financial Resources and Support
Use the following links to understand what your attendance costs will be and how aid and scholarships can help make your degree affordable.
Career Paths
Where will your degree take you?
There are many career paths for pharmaceutical scientists. The VCU School of Pharmacy has a diverse curriculum, experiential opportunities and
the right support to help you along the path you choose.
Learn more about what careers are available to you when you earn this degree.
Questions?
Visit our FAQ page for a list of frequently asked questions or feel free to reach out to us according to the topics you are interested in learning more about below.
- Questions about our program or admissions? Contact us at pharmsciadmit@vcu.edu or complete our Request Info Form.
- Questions about financing your degree? Visit VCU Admissions' Financial Guidance page.
- Questions about our areas of research? Visit the Department of Medicinal Chemistry's research page or reach out to any of the department's faculty on their faculty and staff directory.
Why VCU?
UNLIMITED Potential
At VCU School of Pharmacy, we're committed to an education that's focused on you, your goals and your unlimited potential. As a master's student in the medicinal chemistry concentration, you will:
- learn from experts in the drug discovery, design and development process
- engage in one-on-one mentoring experiences and research training with world-class faculty, who are making an impact in the development of treatments for conditions including neurology, psychiatry, drugs of abuse, cancer, sickle cell disease, coagulopathy, inflammation, aging disorders and more
- gain advanced hands-on research training using state-of-the-art equipment
- find your community in our graduate student association and other student groups
- graduate with the knowledge and advanced research training to become a researcher and a leader in drug discovery and drug design
Graduates of the M.S. concentration in medicinal chemistry often continue their education or pursue careers in different settings, especially the pharmaceutical industry, academia and government agencies.
