Pharmacology & Toxicology Program Requirements & Standards

Our post-baccalaureate program in pharmacology and toxicology is designed for full-time study and research. You should have undergraduate preparation in mathematics through calculus, biology and mammalian anatomy, chemistry, biochemistry, and general physics. Core graduate courses are in medical physiology, pharmacology, toxicology, statistics, and experimental design. Other courses may be taken to complement your individual research interests.

During the first year, coursework and a laboratory rotation enable you to become familiar with the research activities and expertise of the pharmacology and toxicology faculty. You will select a research topic and develop a thesis proposal with guidance from a faculty adviser. You will also complete an independent laboratory research project under the supervision of a research advisory committee.

Master's of science and doctor of philosophy degree requirements include the preparation and defense of a research thesis. You will participate with faculty in intramural seminars and a weekly Journal Club and communicate your research findings at local and national scientific meetings and conferences.

MS Thesis Option

For the master of science degree, you will complete at least 20 credits of approved graduate courses, a laboratory research project in pharmacology or toxicology, and a master's thesis.

PhD Option

As a doctoral candidate, you will complete at least 20 course credits, pass comprehensive written and oral doctoral qualifying exams administered by the faculty, propose and complete an original research project, and successfully defend your doctoral thesis before an examination committee of faculty and other expert scientists. You will be expected to publish your research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

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