Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences:
Pharmacotherapy Concentration
Preparing innovators, entrepreneurs and experts for futures in academia, research, industry and regulatory agencies
Incorporating advanced pharmaceutical sciences and collaboration with faculty subject matter experts, our Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in pharmacotherapy provides intensive training in research methods to advance therapeutic strategies. This program equips students with specialized knowledge in drug efficacy and safety, fostering innovation in pharmaceutical treatments for diverse patient populations.
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers as research scientists, pharmaceutical consultants, or academic scholars, driving forward advancements in patient care and pharmaceutical sciences.
Program Details
About
Four-to-five-year, full-time in-person program
The Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in pharmacotherapy program offers advanced training in the optimization and utilization of pharmaceutical treatments to improve patient health outcomes. Through a blend of advanced coursework, research projects and collaboration with leading experts in the field, students gain a deep understanding of drug therapy, pharmacokinetics and personalized medicine. Graduates are prepared as pharmacotherapy experts, equipped to develop and optimize treatment regimens, conduct clinical trials and contribute to advancements in patient care, bridging the gap between pharmaceutical research and clinical practice in both industry and academia.
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 assistantships and aid 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 Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science 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 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
Recent graduates of the Ph.D. concentration in pharmacotherapy have progressed to senior professional careers in different settings, especially the pharmaceutical industry, academia and government agencies.
