Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences:
Medicinal Chemistry Concentration
Preparing innovators, entrepreneurs and experts for futures in academia, research, industry and regulatory agencies
Our Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a concentration in Medicinal Chemistry offers a rigorous curriculum focused on foundational principles and advanced research in drug design and synthesis. Students engage in cutting-edge laboratory work, exploring the intricacies of molecular modeling, structure-activity relationships and chemical synthesis techniques.
This program equips graduates with specialized expertise to pioneer new drug discoveries and enhance therapeutic treatments. They are prepared to pursue careers as medicinal chemists, research scientists, or academic scholars, contributing to breakthroughs in pharmaceutical development and improving healthcare outcomes for diverse populations.
Program Details
About
Four-to-five-year, full-time in-person program
The Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in medicinal chemistry program offers advanced training in the synthesis, analysis and optimization of pharmaceutical compounds to address complex diseases. Through a blend of advanced coursework, intensive laboratory research and collaboration with leading experts in the field, students gain a deep understanding of molecular drug design and mechanism of action. Graduates are prepared as skilled medicinal chemists poised to drive innovation in drug discovery and development, making significant contributions to health care advancements in both industry and academia.
Administration and Research
This degree is administered by the Department of Medicinal Chemistry.
- Program director: Shijun Zhang, Ph.D.
- 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; 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 assistantships, 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 Ph.D. 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
Recent graduates of the Ph.D. concentration in medicinal chemistry have progressed to senior professional careers in different settings, especially the pharmaceutical industry, academia and government agencies.
