M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences:
Pharmacotherapy Concentration
Preparing professionals for futures in research, industry and academia
Grounded in advanced pharmaceutical sciences coursework and exploration of research methodologies, our Master of Science (M.S.) in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in pharmacotherapy offers specialized training in understanding the factors underlying drug response, adverse events and therapeutic decision-making. This program equips students with foundational knowledge and basic research skills to identify problems and design experiments to improve drug treatment.
Graduates of this program at VCU are prepared to pursue diverse careers in the pharmaceutical industry or in preparation for further advanced study in pharmaceutical sciences.
Program Details
About
Two-year, full-time in-person program
The Master of Science in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in pharmacotherapy program offers students specialized knowledge in the use of medications to treat diseases and improve patient outcomes. With a focus on optimizing drug therapy and patient outcomes, graduates are prepared to work in clinical pharmacy settings, collaborate with health care teams to provide personalized medication management and contribute to advancements in drug therapy through research and development in both pharmaceutical industry and clinical practice.
Administration and Research
This degree is administered by the Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science.
- Program director: Joseph McClay, Ph.D.
- Pharmacotherapy 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 Outcomes 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 pharmacotherapy concentration, you will:
- take courses tailored to your unique needs and interests
- engage in one-on-one mentoring experiences with world-class faculty in areas such as pharmacogenomics and digital health
- be eligible for internship opportunities that fit with your career goals
- 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 personalized medicine and drug response
Graduates of the M.S. concentration in pharmacotherapy often continue their education or pursue careers in different settings, such as the pharmaceutical industry, academia and government agencies.
