M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences:
Pharmacoeconomics and Health Outcomes Concentration
Preparing professionals for futures in research, industry, regulatory agencies and academia
Built on a foundation of comprehensive pharmaceutical sciences coursework and practical research methodologies, our Master of Science (M.S.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a concentration in Pharmacoeconomics and Health Outcomes provides specialized knowledge in economic evaluation and health care policy analysis. This program prepares students to critically assess the economic impact of pharmaceutical interventions and health care policies, fostering informed decision-making in health care settings.
Graduates of this program at VCU pursue careers in pharmaceutical industry research, health economics consulting, policy analysis or further advanced studies in health economics and outcomes research.
Program Details
About
Two-year, full-time in-person program
The Master of Science in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in pharmacoeconomics and health outcomes program offers students a comprehensive exploration of the economic and societal impact of pharmaceutical interventions. With a focus on optimizing health outcomes, students learn to assess the outcomes of pharmaceutical therapies, evaluate health care policies and make informed decisions to optimize patient care while considering economic implications. The program prepares graduates for careers in health care consulting, health economics research, market access, academia and pharmaceutical industry roles focused on maximizing patient outcomes and health care efficiency.
Administration and Research
This degree is administered by the Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science.
- Program director: Joseph McClay, Ph.D.
- Health economics and outcomes research focus areas
- 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)
- Submit the following materials with your application:
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of intent
- 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 Pharmacotherapy and Outcome Science'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 pharmacoeconomics and health outcomes concentration, you will:
- take courses across disciplines such as statistics, organization of health care systems, data science, economic modeling and econometrics
- engage in one-on-one mentoring experiences with world-class faculty
- sharpen your skills at scientific writing and applying for funding opportunities while you obtain professional experiences
- find your community in our graduate student association and other student groups
- graduate with the knowledge and advanced methodological training to become a researcher and a leader in pharmacoepidemiology, pharmacy benefits and policy, and health economics and outcomes research
Graduates of the M.S. concentration in pharmacoeconomics and health outcomes program often continue their education or pursue careers in different settings, such as the pharmaceutical industry, academia and government agencies.
