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Online Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Science in Drug Development

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Founded in 2004, UC's Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Drug Development (MSDD) program provides individuals a formal opportunity to further their knowledge in drug development.

What Is a Master of Pharmaceutical Science in Drug Development?

A collaboration between academia, industry, and government, the Master’s in Drug Development provides cross-disciplinary training in drug development’s scientific, regulatory, and business aspects. Graduates are prepared to participate in the multidisciplinary process of translating a therapeutic concept from lab bench to bedside.

Along with our MSDD program, we offer two graduate certificate programs, including Clinical Trials Design & Research and Global Regulatory Affairs in Drug Development. These three options are all online, asynchronous, and available to part-time and full-time students.

What Is Drug Development?

The Masters in Pharmaceutical Sciences in Drug Development online program was designed for professionals working in drug development’s scientific, regulatory, or business aspects. The drug development master’s degree provides an in-depth and formal education around drug development’s complex science and processes. Completing the master’s program can help advance careers in all phases of research, from preclinical to clinical and beyond.

Why Study Pharmaceutical Sciences with an Emphasis on Drug Development?

Students take this Master’s Degree in Drug Development to deepen their knowledge of various aspects of drug development, including regulatory, pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, medical device, contract research organizations, contract laboratories, manufacturing, and academic health centers and research institutions.

Many students come from companies in drug development or clinical research fields, including pharmacy, lab, medical, nursing, biology, neuroscience, or business.

Our MSDD degree can help advance your career in all phases of research, from preclinical to clinical and beyond.

  • 100% online
  • No campus visits required
  • Program can be completed in two years
  • Students can enroll three times a year in spring, summer, or fall.
  • Asynchronous curriculum available 24 hours a day

Given the scope and breadth of knowledge covered by this Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Development program, the acquired learning and skills will equip students to advance their research and drug development careers.

Possible careers depending on prior education, areas of expertise, and experience include:
  • Clinical Research Assistants
  • Quality assurance
  • Regulatory guides
  • Project Managers and leaders
  • Scientific leaders
  • Therapeutic experts
  • Medical writers
  • Medical liaison
  • Specialized consultants

Along with our Master’s in Drug Development program, we offer two graduate certificate programs, including Clinical Trials Design & Research and Global Regulatory Affairs in Drug Development. These options are all online, asynchronous, and available part-time.

Alumni Spotlight

Your master's degree is only the beginning. Take a look at what UC's online graduates are accomplishing in the field of drug development. 

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“The MSDD program is a great learning opportunity for busy professionals looking to increase their knowledge of the drug discovery and approval process. The courses are very practical and applicable to the pharmaceutical industry, and the small classes sizes facilitated in making the seminars adaptive and interactive. My time in the MSDD program was very beneficial and aided in the advancement of my Clinical Research career."

Lydia Y. MSDD Graduate

“The MSDD program has been a turning point in my professional career, which pivots around the CRO industry. It has exposed me to the myriad facets intertwined in the complex, and highly regulated field of clinical research and drug developments. Courses are structured to cover all major topics and functions covering the drug development and are taught by a thoughtful hand-picked mix of industry leaders, working professionals, and competent academicians. This allows for real-world insights into the drug development field.”

Swapnil P. MSDD Graduate

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